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CLEAR ALLA purebred dog from Sicily, the Cirneco Dell’Etna is one of the few breeds that developed its modern traits through natural selection – meaning there was no human intervention in the breeding process. These are the dogs we see today; independent, alert, and gentle. The Cirneco Dell’Etna adapted to hunting in a challenging environment, which was hot and dry, combined with rugged terrain caused by volcanic lava. These dogs have many names, including Sicilian Hound, Cirneco, Sicilian Rabbit Hound, Sicilian Greyhound, and Sicilian Rabbit Dog.
As their name suggests, these versatile sighthounds have been found hunting around the slopes of Mount Etna. While the Cirneco Dell’Etna has been living in isolation for over a millennium, their appearance is very similar to the other Mediterranean dogs like the Ibizan Hound that originated in Ancient Egypt.
The Cirneco Dell’Etna is a friendly animal and even-tempered, making them suitable for most families. They originally hunted birds and rabbits, and as a result, they are playful and alert dogs with a strong independent streak. Be wary when they are off lead, because their keen eyesight and strong hunting instincts can see them dash off at a moment's notice. This trait combined with their impressive climbing skills, means that they require a home with a tall fence. Don’t worry, though, as compared to other sighthounds, the Cirneco Dell’Etna is more trainable and they aim to please their owners.
Similar to many dog breeds, the Cirneco Dell’Etna needs daily exercise. But these playful dogs can adapt to indoor living and even make good choices for apartment dwellers as they shed very lightly. Just ensure you can offer these dogs all the mental and physical stimulation they need to thrive.
A purebred dog from Sicily, the Cirneco Dell’Etna is one of the few breeds that developed its modern traits through natural selection – meaning there was no human intervention in the breeding process. These are the dogs we see today; independent, alert, and gentle. The Cirneco Dell’Etna adapted to hunting in a challenging environment, which was hot and dry, combined with rugged terrain caused by volcanic lava. These dogs have many names, including Sicilian Hound, Cirneco, Sicilian Rabbit Hound, Sicilian Greyhound, and Sicilian Rabbit Dog.
As their name suggests, these versatile sighthounds have been found hunting around the slopes of Mount Etna. While the Cirneco Dell’Etna has been living in isolation for over a millennium, their appearance is very similar to the other Mediterranean dogs like the Ibizan Hound that originated in Ancient Egypt.
The Cirneco Dell’Etna is a friendly animal and even-tempered, making them suitable for most families. They originally hunted birds and rabbits, and as a result, they are playful and alert dogs with a strong independent streak. Be wary when they are off lead, because their keen eyesight and strong hunting instincts can see them dash off at a moment's notice. This trait combined with their impressive climbing skills, means that they require a home with a tall fence. Don’t worry, though, as compared to other sighthounds, the Cirneco Dell’Etna is more trainable and they aim to please their owners.
Similar to many dog breeds, the Cirneco Dell’Etna needs daily exercise. But these playful dogs can adapt to indoor living and even make good choices for apartment dwellers as they shed very lightly. Just ensure you can offer these dogs all the mental and physical stimulation they need to thrive.
The Cirneco Dell'Etna, also known as the Sicilian Hound, is a medium breed with an elegant yet athletic appearance. They typically stand 43-50 cm tall and weigh 8-12 kg.
Cirnecos have a slender and well-proportioned body built for swift movement, enabling them to navigate rocky terrains effortlessly. Part of their sleek structure is their straight topline that slopes downwards to the root of the tail. They also have muscular, well-arched necks and long shoulders.
One of the Cirneco's most distinct features is its head, with a fine skull that tapers down to a well-defined muzzle. This canine has large, expressive, oval-shaped eyes, high-set triangular-shaped ears that stand erect, and a large flesh-coloured nose.
The Cirneco Dell'Etna has short and sleek fur that offers protection from the diverse climates of its native Sicily. The hair sits close to the body and is often shorter on the head, ears, and legs. The texture can be fine or slightly harsh. The coat colour will be a shade of chestnut, red, or tan, often giving off a sand-like hue that aligns with its Mediterranean surroundings.
The Cirneco Dell'Etna's personality is best described as a vibrant blend of intelligence, independence, and loyalty. These canines have an innate curiosity and a strong desire to explore, yet they are known for forming deep bonds with their human companions. So while they may display some independence, their loyalty to their family is unwavering.
The Cirneco's intelligence includes sharp senses, agility, and keen alertness. These dogs are observant and responsive to their surroundings, making them excellent watchdogs. Although they might be reserved with strangers, they are typically affectionate and devoted to their families, making them wonderful companions who thrive on human interaction.
Originally bred to aid hunters in catching prey, Sicilian Hounds have a playful spirit and a fun-loving attitude. However, their heritage also means they can have a high prey drive, so keeping them leashed while out walking is important.
These dogs are relatively easy to train compared to other hounds. However, starting training from a young age is recommended due to their independence.
As this dog develops a strong bond with its family, Cirnecos need a home where they can be an integral part of daily life. Moreover, these curious hounds love to explore, so they need regular physical exercise, and a fenced garden is ideal.
Thanks to their playful nature and people-loving personality, these hounds make excellent additions to families with children. However, they are best suited to homes with older children as they may be too lively and boisterous for toddlers and babies.
The Cirneco Dell'Etna can get along with other dogs, but typically only when introduced from an early age or if they receive proper socialisation and training as a puppy.
Their stories
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Neo
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We had some concerns purchasing a kitten online but our experience with The Pedigree Paws was great. They connected us with Caroline, the Russian Blue breeder and we had many conversations and received multiple pictures and videos. She answered to all our questions.
The Pedigree Paws verified for us all the vaccinations and health checks to make sure our new kitten was 100% healthy.
Thank you for all your help The Pedigree Paws! Highly recommended!
Jack
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One of the reasons I was hesitant to order a puppy from The Pedigree Paws is because I live in Spain. However they connected me with a very good FCI breeder in Barcelona.
He showed me all the health documents of both parents, their pedigree and answer to all my questions. I am so happy they helped me to find a healthy puppy as finding one by myself was very overwhelming. Contacting The Pedigree Paws was the best decision and I highly recommend them to everybody!
Stitch
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From the kittens's selection to the arrival of our Chartreux kitten, The Pedigree Paws was there to assist us. We had great experience with them, and they breeder Alexandra from France with whom they connected us and from whom we got our kitten from. They are very prompt in answering our initial and follow-up questions while our kitten was in transit. Very reliable and trustworthy!
Thank you so much for all your help. We are very happy with our new family member. We will definitely recommend it to all our friends.
Athena
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It's been a few months since we decided to find a Chihuahua puppy to join our family, however we had issues finding a good breeder.
We contacted The Pedigree Paws and they connected us with a very unique breeder in Greece. Many videos and pictures were shown, the breeder shared with us the proof of vaccinations, deworming and her 5 generation pedigree. We were fortunate as George, the breeder was able to deliver the puppy to us personally. We are very pleased with our beautiful Athena. Thank you, The Pedigree Paws, for being truthful and transparent.
Thor
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I feel wonderful having help from The Pedigree Paws finding the dream Abyssinian kitten I was looking for. Thor is the absolute dream! The Pedigree Paws team was really patient and responsible in everything. Lovely experience! They replied to every questions, requirements, and information I ask about the kitten.
Fin
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Thank you for finding for me such a beautiful Chihuahua puppy! I love him so much from the minute I saw him. He changed my world.
Kate, from The Pedigree Paws assisted me through the whole process informing me about everything from health checks to arranging a Pet Nanny to transport Fin directly to my door. So thankful that the experience went so well! I love my Fin.
Emi
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I have always wanted a Ragdoll kitten as it was my dream cat breed, but didnt know how to find one as heard a lot about kitten farms and bad breeders. I reached out to The Pedigree Paws and they were very accommodating and transparent from the start. They offered me few kittens from their list of breeders and when I saw Emi I knew she was the one! We went through the kitten's parents DNA testing as for me that was a priority to have a kitten free from genetic disorders. We sealed the deal and now I have the best kitten I could dream of! Thank you very much for all your help
Shima
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I really wanted a Russian Blue kitten, but was very nervous getting one after reading horror stories about scammers on the Internet. I had my first call with Natalia, from The Pedigree Paws and with her help I was able to connect with the breeder, that I knew I could trust. I am very lucky to have now Shima, she is an absolute joy to live with.
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