Cirneco delletna

Also known as: Sicilian Greyhound, Sicilian HoundOrigin: ItalyPurpose: Hunting, companion

Size Category
Medium
Height Range
17-20 inches
Weight Range
18-26 pounds
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Energy Level
High

Key Characteristics

Social Behavior
4/5

Interaction patterns with humans and other animals

Maintenance
3/5

Overall care requirements and upkeep needs

General Health
4/5

Overall health score based on common issues and life expectancy

Adaptability
4/5

Overall ability to adapt to different environments and situations

Personality Traits

Affectionate4/5Energetic4.5/5Intelligent4/5Friendly4/5Protective3/5
Affectionate4/5

This breed is moderately affectionate and forms strong bonds with their family

Energetic4.5/5

Shows very high energy levels and requires appropriate exercise

Intelligent4/5

Displays moderately high intelligence and learning capability

Friendly4/5

moderately outgoing and welcoming towards people and other animals

Protective3/5

Shows somewhat protective instincts towards family and territory

Is This Breed Right for Me?

Novice Owner Suitability
3.5/5

Appropriateness for first-time dog owners

Training Ease
3.5/5

Overall ease of training and learning capability

Time Commitment

  • Exercise: 90 minutes
  • Training: 20-30 minutes
  • Grooming: 5-10 minutes
Apartment Living
3.5/5

Suitability: Moderate. Requires: Multiple daily walks, Access to dog parks, Regular outdoor activities

  • Multiple daily walks
  • Access to dog parks
  • Regular outdoor activities
House Living
4.5/5

Suitability: High. Ideal features include: Fenced yard, Space for indoor play, Access to outdoor activities

  • Fenced yard
  • Space for indoor play
  • Access to outdoor activities

Climate Adaptability

Overall Temperature Adaptation
4.5/5

Thrives in warm climates due to origins in Sicily. Can handle moderate cold but not extreme temperatures.

Temperature Management:
  • Provide shade and water in hot weather
  • Limit exposure to freezing temperatures
  • Indoor shelter in extreme weather
Ideal Climate:
  • Open spaces
  • Access to outdoor areas
  • Moderate climate zones

Exercise Requirements

Daily Exercise90 minutes
Energy LevelHigh
Recommended Activities:
  • Running
  • Hiking
  • Fetch
  • Agility training

Initial Investment

Purchase Price$1,000-$2,000
Setup Costs$300-$600

Monthly Expenses

Food$30-$50
Grooming$10-$20
Healthcare$20-$40
Insurance$20-$30
Miscellaneous$10-$20
Total Monthly$80-$150
Hip Dysplasia
Low
  • Regular vet checkups
  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Appropriate exercise
Dental Issues
Moderate
  • Regular dental cleaning
  • Chew toys
  • Dental checkups

Family & Social Compatibility

Children
4/5

Good with older children, but supervision recommended due to energy level

Recommendations:

  • Gentle play
  • Not jumping
  • Respecting boundaries
Strangers
3.5/5

Initially reserved but warms up with time

Other Dogs
3.5/5

Can be social with proper introduction and early socialization

Best Practices:

  • Neutral territory
  • Active but not dominant
  • Start early and maintain
Cats
3/5

Early socialization required, may chase due to prey drive

The Cirneco dell'Etna is an ancient sighthound breed from Sicily, particularly from the area surrounding Mount Etna. This elegant and athletic dog was traditionally used for hunting rabbits and other small game across the rough terrain of Mount Etna.

Physical Characteristics:

  • Height: 18-20 inches (males), 16-19 inches (females)
  • Weight: 22-26 pounds
  • Distinctive features: Erect ears, slender build, and elegant appearance
  • Coat: Short, sleek coat in solid chestnut or tan

Temperament:

  • Intelligent and independent
  • Gentle and affectionate with family
  • Reserved with strangers
  • Strong hunting instincts
  • Good with children when properly socialized

Care Requirements:

  • Exercise: Needs regular exercise and space to run
  • Grooming: Low maintenance, occasional brushing
  • Training: Responds well to positive reinforcement
  • Health: Generally healthy breed with few genetic issues

Living Situation:

  • Adaptable to apartment living if exercised properly
  • Does well in warm climates
  • Needs secure fencing due to hunting instincts
  • Benefits from a yard but not required

Best Suited For:

  • Active individuals or families
  • Experienced dog owners
  • Those interested in dog sports
  • Homes without small pets due to prey drive

Notable Characteristics:

  • Ancient breed with over 2,500 years of history
  • Excellent agility and speed
  • Good watchdog capabilities
  • Low grooming need
  • Relatively rare outside of Italy

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