The Cirneco dell'Etna originated in Sicily and are assigned to the hound group. Some say they look like a type of Pharaoh Hound, only smaller.[1] They do have a few characteristics in common with other dog breeds, as well as several unique ones. This wikiHow will help you with figuring out whether or not a dog is a Cirneco dell'Etna.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Body Structure

  1. Male Cirnechi are anywhere from 18 to 19.5 inches (46 to 50 cm) tall, and they typically weigh somewhere between 22 to 26 pounds (10.0 to 11.8 kg). Females are a little smaller, being anywhere from 16.5 to 18 inches (42 to 46 cm) tall and weighing somewhere between 17 to 22 pounds (7.7 to 10.0 kg).[2]
  2. The Cirneco dell'Etna should have a skull width that is less than 1/2 of the head's length. From a side view, the skull should seem like it is close to flat. You should also notice that the head is chiseled well and slender.[3]
  3. Cirnechi should have rigid, erect ears that are quite high-set and close to each other. When the dog is alert, the ears should either be close to or fully parallel to each other. The ears should have tips that are narrow, and they should also be triangular in shape.[4]
  4. The Cirneco dell'Etna should have oval-shaped eyes that are somewhat small and set fairly diagonally. The eye color should blend with their coat color, being either ochre or amber-colored.[5]
  5. Cirnechi should have a tail that is set low with a relatively thick base, and it should reach to the dog's hock. For the majority of its length, the tail should be the same level of thickness. When the dog is moving, the tail should be carried in a curved, high manner, and when the dog is relaxed, the tail should be carried similar to a saber. You should also notice close hair on the tail that is moderately long in length.[6]
  6. The Cirneco dell'Etna should appear elegant, hardy, and strong, with a thin build. The dog's outline should be square, and they should have a trot that appears springy.[7]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Coat

  1. Cirnechi can either be tan, with shades that are anywhere from light to dark and a combination of hairs that are a little darker and lighter, or tan along with a blaze mark that is white in color, found on either the chest, throat, and/or the head, along with either a point on their tail, feet, or belly being white in color as well.[8]
  2. The Cirneco dell'Etna may have a coat that feels anywhere from fine to a little coarse in texture.[9]
  3. Overall, Cirnechi should have a close, sleek coat that is of a short length on their ears, legs, and head and around 1 inch (2.5 cm) long on the dog's tail and body. You should not notice any feathering on the dog's coat.[10]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Temperament

  1. The Cirneco dell'Etna is a loyal dog who loves to be near their family.[11]
  2. While Cirnechi are known to be loyal to their family, they may be reserved at first around strangers (but not aggressive), though they usually warm up to them eventually.[12]
  3. The Cirneco dell'Etna is an adaptable dog who can typically do well in the country or city. What they do not handle well, however, is loud noises such as yelling.[13]
  4. Because Cirnechi have a short coat, they tend to prefer being under a warm blanket as opposed to being outside.[14]
  5. The Cirneco dell'Etna have a lot of energy. Canine sports such as agility are one thing that can help them channel this energy. If they do not have an outlet for their energy, they may end up becoming destructive.[15]
  6. Cirnechi are known to be independent, stubborn dogs. This means they will need early, frequent socialization and training to help curb this.[16]
  7. The Cirneco dell'Etna is known to have a high prey drive, meaning they may chase small animals. Be sure to keep them on a leash when in a non fenced-in area, and supervise them otherwise.[17]
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Tips

  • If you want to know what your dog's breed is, consider dog DNA testing, which can help confirm whether or not your dog is a Cirneco dell’Etna.
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Updated: November 1, 2021
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