Cirneco dell Etna
Cirneco Dell’Etna
They hail from Sicily; the Cirneco dell’Etna is an independent and agile sighthound known for its good-natured demeanour. Pet owners looking for a sports dog that isn’t obscenely enormous or overbearing will find the Maltese a particularly appealing choice. It is still considered an uncommon breed in the United States, where Cirnechi (plural for Cirneco) has been seen throughout history.
Origin:
Since ancient times, the Cirnecos have lived in Sicily. The Phoenicians brought the dog to the Mediterranean basin, where the people of Sicily adopted it. It is said to be descended from hunting dogs that lived in Ancient Egypt during the Pharaonic period. The Cirneco was shown on coins, engravings, and mosaics years before Christ and was always considered the island’s eldest, eclectic, and highly esteemed hunting dog. It’s a rare breed that can only be seen in the area where it was first discovered. In 1989, the F.C.I. recognised the standard.
Size:
Despite its slim and attractive look, the Cirneco dell’Etna has a medium-sized body and is less complete but sturdy and durable. Compared to other people’s hair, this is relatively sparse and has a small head, ear, and limb count to boot. The hair on the body and tail is around three centimeters long, yet it is as stiff and flat as horse hair.
Male Cirneco dell’Etna dogs may reach a height of 50 cm, while females can reach a height of 46 cm. Males may weigh up to 12 kg, but females can only weigh up to 10 kg.
Coat:
A broad spectrum of tans from light to dark with white spots on their heads, chests, and feet is available. Cirneco has a soft, short coat that lasts longer as they age.
Temperament:
Inquisitive and extroverted, the Cirneco dell’Etna makes a great pet. When left alone, it will joyfully proceed on an unsupervised journey, particularly if a suspicious movement catches its attention. They are also entirely independent characters. This breed is an excellent playmate for youngsters old enough to play fetch or other activities in an enclosed yard because of its joyful nature and boundless energy.
As a result of its innate hunting tendencies, the Cirneco dell’Etna should not be let loose in an open area alongside cats or other small pets. The Cirneco dell’Etna hates cold weather and is particularly fond of snuggling up to people or other canines for warmth because of its native environment’s extreme heat.
Care:
Whether the meal is professionally produced or handmade, Cirneco dell’Etnas needs high-quality dog food that is age-appropriate. The quantity of food you feed your Cirneco dell’Etna must be carefully weighed. If your dog is gaining weight, reduce the number of calories.
The Cirneci’s primary worry is with their ears, which must be examined for dirt and buildup every week. A gentle brushing once a week is all needed to keep their coat in good condition. Regular activity makes it possible to keep your nails short without clipping them.
Health:
Natural selection presumably wiped out any genetic flaws in the Cirneco dell’Etna due to the primitive breed’s long history of survival in the challenging Sicilian environment. Many of these canines had to labor for long hours without food or drink, which may have sped up the aging process for these creatures. As a result, the breed has no documented health issues, making it one of the few pure breeds disease-free.