Cirneco dell'Etna

The breed is believed to descend from ancient Egyptian-type hounds brought to Sicily by Phoenician traders, remaining largely unchanged for over two thousand years thanks to the island's geographic isolation, particularly around Mount Etna where it worked with minimal outside influence. Sicilian hunters valued it for coursing rabbits over the rough volcanic terrain, working independently and covering ground efficiently on relatively little food, a trait suited to Sicily's often lean rural economy. The breed nearly vanished in the early 20th century before Baroness Agata Paterno Castello led a rescue and documentation effort in the 1930s and 1940s.

Living with a Cirneco means living with a light-framed, athletic hound that retains a strong hunting instinct and a notable prey drive toward small animals. It is affectionate and gentle with its own family but can be reserved with strangers, and it needs secure fencing since its sighthound instincts mean it will chase and can clear surprisingly high barriers. Its short coat is easy to maintain, needing only occasional brushing, and it is not a heavy shedder.

The breed remains rare outside Sicily and Italy, and buyers looking for one outside its homeland may need to wait for a litter or travel to find a reputable breeder.

Today the Cirneco is still used for rabbit hunting in Sicily and has a small but growing following elsewhere as a companion and lure-coursing dog, valued for its stamina, low-maintenance coat and gentle temperament at home.