| Cirneco dell'Etna | ||
|---|---|---|
 |
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| Alternative names | ||
| Sicilian Greyhound |
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| Country of origin | ||
| Italy | ||
| Common nicknames | ||
| Cirneco |
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| Classification and breed standards | ||
| FCI: | Group 5 Section 7 #199 | Stds |
| KC (UK): | Hound | Stds |
| Notes | ||
| The KC (UK) does not have an official breed standard | ||
The Cirneco dell'Etna (plural Cirnechi) is a small breed of dog originally from Sicily. This hound was historically used to hunt rabbits and can work for hours without food or water. The breed also has a keen sense of smell but is primarily a sighthound and built for speed over terrain such as that of Mount Etna. It is the smallest of the Mediterranean sighthounds, the others being the Pharaoh Hounds and Ibizan Hounds. Cirnechi were believed to have been brought to Sicily over 3000 years ago by the Phoenician traders. The Cirneco dell'Etna is a "wise-looking" hound and carries dignity as it hunts. Today they are increasingly kept as show dogs and pets due to their low coat maintenance and friendly nature although they do need regular exercise being an active sighthound. A Cirneco should measure from 43-51cm (17-20in) and weigh between 10-12kg (22-26lb). As with other breeds, those from hunting stock can lie outside these ranges.
