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The Canine Chronicles Directory
Cirneco dell'Etna
The Cirneco dell'Etna (also known as the Sicilian Hound) is a small-sized dog with
short hair and a graceful and athletic appearance. The coat color is solid fawn
with white markings. They should have a long, lean head with a wedge-like appearance.
The jaws are strong and come together in a scissor-like bite. The eyes are small,
almond shaped and are normally amber in color. The ears are high set, large and
carried erect with the opening towards the front. They should never be cropped.
The neck is long, muscular and well-arched. The chest should be deep and the front
legs are straight. The feet should be firm and well knuckled. The tail is thin and
set low. It is carried like a saber or between the legs when the dog is at rest
and curving over the back when in action.
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Temperament
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The Cirneco dell'Etna is a quiet yet lively breed. They are hardy, rustic and powerful
dogs with a strong personality. They may be a bit difficult to train, but do best
with early and firm training. The Cirneco is lively and friendly towards their family,
but do not warm up quickly to other children or to strange pets. This affectionate
breed is usually happy and not aggressive. They are very alert and watchful making
them good watch dogs.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 18-20" ; Weight: 26-30 lbs.
Female Height: 16-18" ; Weight: 18-26 lbs.
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Health Problems
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This breed is very hardy, but occasionally can be prone to drug sensitivities including
insecticides and medicines.
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Living Conditions
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Cirnecos will do well living in an apartment; however, they do best with a large
yard. They are incredibly fast and can be difficult to recapture if they escape.
If they spy or scent prey, they will go far away from you as they never lose their
instinct to hunt alone. They are sensitive to the cold and should not be expected
to sleep outside as they always prefer to be with their families.
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Exercise
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This breed needs a great deal of daily exercise. They should have two or three long
walks per day if they do not have a large yard in which they can stretch their legs.
Only let this dog off their lead in a safe area. They make excellent bicycling companions.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-14 years
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Grooming
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This breed does not require much grooming. The coat can be kept shiny by rubbing
over it with a rubber glove or by brushing. They are a clean breed with no doggy
odor. They are average shedders.
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Origin
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Artifacts created in the Nile Valley during the Stone Age, perhaps as long ago as
4000 BC, display the image of a general type hound such as the Pharaoh, Ibizan and
Sicilian breeds. These dogs had the typical large, upright ears and descended from
pariah-type southern dogs selected for their speed. Depicted widely during the Egyptian
dynasties, these dogs bear a striking resemblance to the dog-god Anubis, who guided
souls to their place in the afterworld. This breed was named after the area of Cirneco,
Sicily. Resting on Sicily is an active volcano, Mt. Etna, from which the name originated.
Formally used as a hunting dog, they are mostly used today as a pet and show dog.
The breed is recognized by the FCI and the UKC and has been accepted for recording
in the AKC Foundation Stock Service®.
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Group
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AKC/FSS Hound, UKC Sighthound and Pariah
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