Hound Group
Cirneco dell'Etna
Champion Pedigree
Ancient
Agile
Sighthound
An ancient Sicilian hunting hound named for the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, the Cirneco dell’Etna is a small, lean sighthound bred to hunt rabbit over the island’s harsh, rocky terrain. Rare outside Sicily, it remains close to its original working form.
Lifespan
12–14 years.
Did You Know?
The Cirneco dell’Etna is believed to descend from ancient Egyptian hunting dogs brought to Sicily by Phoenician traders thousands of years ago.
Breed Traits
Size
16.5–19.5 in. tall, 17–26 lbs.
Energy Level
High — needs substantial daily exercise, ideally with scent or sighthound-style activity.
Coat & Grooming
Short, smooth coat; low grooming needs, minimal shedding.
Good With Families
Affectionate with family, generally good with children given its gentle, adaptable temperament.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Sicilian Greyhound
Origin
Sicily, Italy, an ancient hunting breed.
Typical Litter Size
4 to 6 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK)
Disposition
Alert, independent, and gentle; strong prey drive means recall off-leash is unreliable around small animals.
Coat Colors
Tan, fawn, or chestnut, sometimes with white markings.
Working Roles
Historically a rabbit-hunting hound in rugged volcanic terrain; today primarily a companion and lure-coursing competitor.
Health & Wellness
A generally very healthy, hardy breed, with few widely documented hereditary conditions.
Notable Cirneco dell'Etnas
Ancient Sicilian Heritage
One of the oldest documented dog breeds, largely unchanged since antiquity.
Registry Newcomer
A relatively recent, still rare addition to major kennel club registries outside Italy.
Mount Etna Namesake
Named for the volcanic region of Sicily where it has hunted for millennia.
Related Reading
Cirneco dell'Etna Gifts
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