Cirneco dell'Etna Dog

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN Sicily.

MOST SUITED AS Hunting dog and family pet.

SIZE
Dogs 46-50cm(18 1/2-19 1/2in), bitches (16 1/2 - 18 1/2in).

COAT
This Sicilian dog has a short-haired coat. All shades of red are permissible and one white marking is accepted, although this is fairly rare.

CARE REQUIRED
This breed's coat does not require much attention. The sheen on the coat can be kept in good condition by occasionally running a rubber glove over it. Check at frequent intervals that the ear passages are clean and keep the claws short.

CHARACTER
This is a friendly, affectionate, active dog which is intelligent and very loyal to its handler and the family and is also vigilant. The majority of this breed likes to be heard and also demands plenty of attention.

TRAINING
The Cirneco dell' Etna is a relatively easy dog to train but the handler needs to be very consistent. There will be no problems with your own cat but strange cats will be chased. They are loving and patient with children. They mark the arrival of strangers but that is all.

EXERCISE
Because this breed needs lots of exercise it is necessary to set aside an hour every day for this purpose. Running alongside a cycle or coursing are ideal forms of exercise for them.

GENERAL
The Cirneco dell' Etna is considered a bit of a greyhound, because it hunts by sight and sound as well as by nose. Only let them run free off the lead if you are absolutely certain there is no wild game nearby or its hunting instincts will rear their head and it will go on a solitary poaching foray. They can jump extremely high so your garden needs a good high fence. They like to be near you and are quite unsuitable for kennel life.