Cirneco dell'Etna

Brushing Routine

Brush once weekly with a soft bristle brush or rubber mitt. The Cirneco's short, glossy coat lies flat and close to the body, requiring minimal maintenance. A grooming mitt used 2-3 times weekly removes loose hair and stimulates the skin. The coat should gleam with health after a light brushing session.

Bathing Tips

Bathe every 6-8 weeks with a mild, gentle shampoo. Cirnecos are naturally clean dogs that rarely develop odor. Their coat repels dirt well, so spot cleaning with a damp cloth is often sufficient between baths. Use warm water and a light conditioner if the skin feels dry.

Common Issues

• Thin skin that is prone to scrapes and cuts
• Large, upright ears that are sensitive to cold and sun
• Dry skin in low-humidity environments
• Minimal cold tolerance with virtually no undercoat
• Sensitivity to chemical-heavy grooming products

Extend Your Grooming Results

Wipe down with a microfiber cloth after outdoor activity to remove dust and pollen. Apply pet-safe sunscreen to the large, exposed ear tips and nose. Keep nails short since their compact, hare-like feet are sensitive to overgrown nails. The coat should always look sleek and close-fitting.

Seasonal Care

Cirnecos shed lightly year-round with minimal seasonal change. In Houston summers, protect their large ears from sunburn and provide shade. Their short coat offers some heat tolerance but limit extreme exertion. In winter, a light jacket is sufficient since Houston rarely gets cold enough to stress this Mediterranean breed.

Maintenance Schedule

Weekly brushing with soft bristle brush, grooming mitt 2-3 times weekly, ear tip sunscreen as needed, nail trims every 2-3 weeks, ear checks weekly, professional grooming every 8-10 weeks.