Cirneco dell'Etna
An elegant, hardy little Sicilian hunter, the Cirneco dell'Etna is lively, affectionate and perfectly suited to hot climates.
Cirneco dell'Etna vs Pharaoh Hound
Side by side
| Trait | Cirneco dell'Etna | Pharaoh Hound |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Spitz and primitive types | Spitz and primitive types |
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Weight | 8–12 kg | 20–25 kg |
| Height at withers | 42–50 cm | 53–64 cm |
| Life expectancy | 12–14 years | 12–14 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Yes | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Heavier: Pharaoh Hound (about 22.5 kg vs 10 kg on average)
- Taller: Pharaoh Hound (about 58.5 cm vs 46 cm on average)
- Suited to apartments: Cirneco dell'Etna only
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Cirneco dell'Etna is the better fitBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Both are similarBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Both are similarBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Pharaoh Hound
Slender and fiery-red, the Pharaoh Hound from Malta is a fast, playful and affectionate hunter that 'blushes' when excited.