Welcome to CdECA

Our goals are:

To educate the public about the history, importance, qualities, training and care of the breed.

To encourage and promote quality in the breeding and performance of purebred Cirneco dell’Etna with strict adherence to the breed standard in the pursuit of bringing their natural qualities to perfection.

To rescue and otherwise ensure humane treatment for the breed throughout the continental United States.

Welcome to CdECA

Our goals are:

To educate the public about the history, importance, qualities, training and care of the breed.

To encourage and promote quality in the breeding and performance of purebred Cirneco dell’Etna with strict adherence to the breed standard in the pursuit of bringing their natural qualities to perfection.

To rescue and otherwise ensure humane treatment for the breed throughout the continental United States.

Seasonal Collection

The CdECA store holds exclusive designs and carefully selected products that carry the legacy of our Primitive Hunters!

Seasonal Collection

The CdECA store holds exclusive designs and carefully selected products that carry the legacy of our Primitive Hunters!

Breed Insights

The Cirneco dell’Etna is a small hound-type dog used in Sicily for rabbit hunting and commonly misnomered as the “Sicilian greyhound” when translated. It is found all over the Italian island and particularly in the area surrounding the active volcano, Mount Etna, where the dogs hunt on terrain formed by volcanic lava. Its presence in Sicily is noteworthy as one of the few ancient breeds that have undergone very little manipulation by man. Thus the dog we have today is an extremely hardy breed, free from inherited health problems.

How to Determine if a Cirneco dell’Etna is Right for You

Since its inception in 1997, the Cirneco dell’Etna Club of America has directed the development of the Cirneco in the USA. Our emphasis continues to be the importance of safety, health and the well being of the Cirneco dell’Etna. Because we are committed to maintaining the breed’s standard and quality developed in Sicily – the breed’s region of origin – Cirneco puppies may not always be available. Please contact one on our recognized breederd listed below..

100% Pure Cirneco

General Appearance: Medium-sized hunting dog, elegant, slender build but strong and hardy. Long-limbed, of light construction and square outline with a fine coat and erect ears, always alert. Honorable scars indicating a working and hunting dog are never to be penalized.

Characteristics: A keen hunter. Adaptable to difficult terrain. Hunts by scent, sight, and hearing. Strong-willed, alert and an excellent companion.

Our Blog

Confidence and the Young Dog

Confidence and the Young Dog

Whether a puppy is destined to excel in competition, conformation, or just spend his time as a companion, it is crucial to take the time to build his self esteem, confidence, and sense of well being. His level of confidence will have a direct effect on how well he...

Building a Foundation for Success

Building a Foundation for Success

Getting a new puppy or dog is always an exciting event! The days, weeks, and months that follow will be loads of fun, as well as, thought provoking and challenging! Start building a great foundation the very first day you bring your new pup or dog home! 1. “Structure”...

Introducing a new dog Adult or Puppy

Introducing a new dog Adult or Puppy

Q. When introducing a new dog, adult or puppy, into the household with a Cirneco, what should we take into consideration before bringing home the new pet, how should they be introduced, what behavioral indicators should we be aware of or watch for to avoid possible...

Our Blog

Confidence and the Young Dog

Confidence and the Young Dog

Whether a puppy is destined to excel in competition, conformation, or just spend his time as a companion, it is crucial to take the time to build his self esteem, confidence, and sense of well being. His level of confidence will have a direct effect on how well he...

Building a Foundation for Success

Building a Foundation for Success

Getting a new puppy or dog is always an exciting event! The days, weeks, and months that follow will be loads of fun, as well as, thought provoking and challenging! Start building a great foundation the very first day you bring your new pup or dog home! 1. “Structure”...

CdECA appreciates your comments, questions and suggestions; please complete the form below to send us your inquiry.

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Breed Recognition

The Cirneco dell’Etna moved into full breed recognition within the American Kennel Club’s Hound Group on January 1, 2015 and with this, a new book began to be written.

CdECA-LOGO-WEB

The Cirneco dell’Etna Club of America (CdECA) had its beginning in Houston, TX on June 15, 1997.

Official AKC Breed Standard for the Cirneco Dell’Etna

Approved January 14, 2020
Effective March 31, 2020

Breed Recognition

CdECA-LOGO-WEB

The Cirneco dell’Etna moved into full breed recognition within the American Kennel Club’s Hound Group on January 1, 2015 and with this, a new book began to be written.

Official AKC Breed Standard for the Cirneco Dell’Etna

Approved January 14, 2020
Effective March 31, 2020