Cirneco dell'Etna - the italian dog breed in portrait
Ancestry and origin of the Cirneco dell'Etna
The Cirneco dell' Etna originates from the island of Sicily. Dogs of this breed already lived before the birth of Christ on the slopes of the 3,295 m high Etna. This theory is supported by coins, engravings and illustrations from Roman times. In the Italian municipality of Piazza Armerina, a specimen of this breed can be seen on a Roman fresco. The dogs fed on the numerous wild rabbits which they tracked down in the bushes around the volcano. This hunting instinct is still used by hunters today to hunt rabbits. The dog drives the rabbits out of their hiding places so that the hunter can get a shot.
Breed characteristics and temperament
The Cirneco dell' Etna is an Italian dog breed recognized by the FCI, which is listed in FCI Group 5 (Spitz and primitive type dogs), Section 7 (Primitive type - dogs for hunting use), Standard No. 199, without working test. The breed is of impetuous but at the same time gentle, good-natured temperament. Towards strangers the watchful dogs behave very reserved and reserved. This sometimes goes so far that even friends of their master are eyed suspiciously. Beyond that, however, the dogs are quite playfully inclined and for every fun to have.