A small Sicilian sighthound bred to hunt rabbit across the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna.

Who is this breed suited to?

The Cirneco suits an active household interested in a light Sicilian rabbit-hunting dog with secure opportunities to explore.

Daily time commitment

RKC suggests up to an hour of adult exercise daily. Include scent and searching games, plus safe movement and rest.

Coat and everyday care

Weekly brushing maintains the short coat. Inspect feet after rough ground and build comfortable handling of the lean body.

Challenges to plan for

Hunting uses sight, scent and hearing, so distractions may come from several directions. Secure boundaries matter even when indoor recall seems reliable.

How does it compare?

The Pharaoh Hound shares an elegant upright-eared outline, but is larger. Compare adult proportions and the particular line's everyday activity.

Questions to ask a breeder

How do the adults respond to wildlife and new surroundings? Ask for health documentation and the puppies' experience of gentle handling and household sounds.

Sources and further reading

Reviewed October 2026. Breed tendencies are not a prediction for an individual dog. Exercise guidance concerns healthy adults; age, condition and weather change the plan.