Sicilian Branchiero
Breed Description

The Sicilian Branchiero is one of several names used to describe the ancient hunting hound officially registered as the Cirneco dell'Etna. This elegant breed from the Mediterranean island of Sicily has accumulated various appellations throughout its long history, reflecting its deep roots in Italian culture and its specialized role as a rabbit hunter in the volcanic terrain surrounding Mount Etna.

The most widely recognized name, Cirneco dell'Etna, combines two meaningful elements. The word 'Cirneco' derives from the Latin 'cyrenaicus,' which relates to Cyrenaica in North Africa, specifically the region of modern-day Libya. This linguistic connection supports theories about the breed's ancient origins among the trading routes of the Phoenicians who traveled between North Africa and the Mediterranean islands. In Italian, the term 'cirneco' with a lowercase 'c' is used generically to describe all the lithe, prick-eared hunting dogs developed on Mediterranean islands, including Sicily, Malta, and the Balearic Islands. The addition of 'dell'Etna' was incorporated when the first breed standard was accepted by the Italian Kennel Club in 1939, specifically honoring the breed's Sicilian homeland near Europe's largest active volcano.

Among the alternative names for this breed, Sicilian Greyhound is perhaps the most commonly encountered in English-speaking countries. This designation emphasizes both the breed's geographic origin and its greyhound-like appearance, though it should be noted that the Cirneco dell'Etna is not actually related to the Greyhound family despite some superficial similarities in build. Other names include Sicilian Hound, Sicilian Rabbit Hound, and Sicilian Rabbit Dog, all of which reference the breed's primary historical function as a specialized rabbit hunter. In Sicily itself, the dogs were traditionally known simply as 'Cirnechi' (the plural form), and local hunters valued them as indispensable partners in pursuing game across the challenging volcanic landscape.

The breed's connection to its Maltese cousin, the Pharaoh Hound, has led to occasional confusion, with some observers initially mistaking the smaller Sicilian Branchiero for a miniature version of that breed. However, careful examination reveals distinct differences in size, ear set, tail shape, and overall proportions that clearly distinguish the two breeds. The Sicilian variety is notably smaller and more compact, with higher-set ears that remain parallel when alert, compared to the more mobile ears of the Pharaoh Hound.

The Sicilian Branchiero has gained recognition from major kennel clubs worldwide, though its journey to international acceptance was a lengthy one that only began in earnest during the twentieth century. Despite the breed's ancient origins spanning thousands of years on the island of Sicily, formal recognition and standardization came relatively late compared to many other established breeds.

The Italian Kennel Club, known as the Ente Nazionale della Cinofilia Italiana (ENCI), was the first organization to formally recognize the breed when it adopted the official breed standard in 1939. This milestone came largely through the efforts of Dr. Maurizio Migneco, a veterinarian from Adrano on the slopes of Mount Etna who published detailed accounts of the breed, and Baroness Agata Paternò Castello, who dedicated decades to reviving the breed from near extinction. The standard was drawn up by Giuseppe Solaro of Turin and established the foundation for all subsequent international standards.

The Fédération Cynologique Internationale granted definitive acceptance to the breed on March 9, 1956, classifying it in Group 5 (Spitz and Primitive Types), Section 7 (Primitive Type - Hunting Dogs), under Standard Number 199. Italy is recognized as the country of origin, and the FCI standard emphasizes the breed's working ability and requires successful completion of a specific field trial for breed registration in Italy. This working requirement underscores the breed's continued function as an active hunting dog rather than merely a show or companion animal.

In the United States, the breed's recognition came through a gradual process spanning several years. The United Kennel Club was first to act, recognizing the Cirneco dell'Etna in 2006 and placing it in the Sighthound and Pariah Group. The American Kennel Club followed a more deliberate path, first including the breed in its Foundation Stock Service, then admitting it to the Miscellaneous Class in 2012, before granting full recognition in the Hound Group on January 1, 2015. The Cirneco dell'Etna Club of America, founded in Houston, Texas on June 15, 1997, serves as the AKC parent club and has been instrumental in promoting and preserving the breed in North America.

The Kennel Club of the United Kingdom first registered the breed in 2003 when the first Cirneco was imported from Italy in 2001. Initially placed on the Imported Breed Register in the Hound Group, the breed was transferred to the full Breed Register in 2015, with breed classes becoming available at KC shows from October of that year. Crufts held its first breed classes for the Cirneco dell'Etna in 2016, marking a significant milestone for the breed's visibility in the British show world. The UK Cirneco dell'Etna Club serves breed enthusiasts in the United Kingdom and works to maintain standards and promote responsible breeding.

Notably, the Canadian Kennel Club has not yet recognized the Cirneco dell'Etna as of the current date. The breed remains rare in Canada, and efforts to establish it there continue through dedicated breeders and enthusiasts working toward eventual recognition.

The Sicilian Branchiero presents a striking picture of elegant athleticism, combining the graceful lines of a sighthound with the hardy constitution of a primitive hunting breed. This medium-sized dog possesses a slender yet sturdy build that reflects thousands of years of natural selection on the volcanic slopes of Mount Etna, where only the most agile and resilient specimens survived to pass on their genes.

In terms of size, the breed exhibits moderate sexual dimorphism. Males typically stand between 18 to 20 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 22 to 26 pounds, while females measure slightly smaller at 17 to 19 inches in height and 17 to 22 pounds in weight. The breed standard emphasizes that size is critically important to function, as the Cirneco's hunting terrain requires dogs capable of entering and working in restricted rocky areas while maintaining sufficient body substance to effectively pursue and capture prey. Dogs falling outside the stated height limits are disqualified from the show ring.

The overall silhouette of the Sicilian Branchiero is square and elegantly proportioned, with the length of the body approximately equal to the height at the withers. The dog presents a light, refined construction without appearing fragile or delicate. The chest is moderately deep, reaching approximately to the level of the elbows, with lightly sprung ribs that allow for the expansion needed during sustained running. The topline flows smoothly from the withers through a straight back to a slightly arched loin that demonstrates the muscular development essential for the explosive bursts of speed this hunter requires.

The head is one of the breed's most distinctive features, appearing refined and noble without being overly delicate. The skull is oval when viewed from above and nearly flat in profile, with a slightly marked frontal furrow and a non-prominent occipital bone. The muzzle is long and pointed, measuring approximately the same length as the skull, with a straight nasal bridge and clean, tight lips that barely cover the lower teeth. The large, flesh-colored nose blends harmoniously with the coat color and provides the powerful scenting ability for which the breed is renowned.

Perhaps the most recognizable feature of the Sicilian Branchiero is its large, erect ears set high on the head and positioned quite close together. These triangular ears have narrow tips and strong cartilaginous bases that hold them rigidly upright at all times, creating an alert, attentive expression. The ear length should not exceed half the total head length. The eyes are fairly small, oval in shape, and set somewhat obliquely in the head. Eye color ranges from amber to ochre, blending attractively with the coat color, and the expression is soft yet alert. The eye rims match the nose pigment.

The neck is strong, muscular, and gracefully arched, flowing smoothly into well-laid shoulders. The forelegs are long, straight, and fine-boned, ending in oval feet with well-arched toes and hard, flesh-colored or brown pads. The hindquarters are muscular and well-angulated, providing the powerful drive necessary for pursuit across challenging terrain. The tail is set low, thick at the base, and reaches to the hock. It is carried in a saber curve when the dog is in motion but never curled over the back.

The coat of the Sicilian Branchiero is short, fine, and lies close to the body, with hair slightly longer on the body and tail (approximately 3 cm) and very short on the head, ears, and legs. The acceptable coat colors are various shades of tan, ranging from light sand to dark chestnut. White markings may appear on the blaze or mark on the head, chest and throat, feet, tip of tail, and belly. A white collar is less desired according to the breed standard. All pigmentation on the nose, eye rims, pads, and nails should complement the coat color, with black pigmentation being a disqualification.

The Sicilian Branchiero possesses one of the most ancient and storied histories of any dog breed in existence, with origins stretching back approximately three thousand years to the earliest civilizations of the Mediterranean world. This elegant hound represents a living link to antiquity, having remained virtually unchanged through millennia of natural selection in the harsh volcanic landscape of Sicily.

The ancestry of the breed traces to the ancient Egyptian sighthounds known as Tesem, sleek prick-eared dogs depicted in bas-reliefs, tomb paintings, and artifacts dating as far back as 4000 BCE along the banks of the Nile River. These early hunting dogs were highly prized by Egyptian nobility and served both practical and ceremonial functions in ancient society. Scholars believe that Phoenician traders, the master mariners of the ancient world who established extensive trading networks throughout the Mediterranean basin, introduced these Egyptian-type hounds to Sicily and other Mediterranean islands around 800 to 1200 BCE.

The volcanic island of Sicily, dominated by the imposing presence of Mount Etna, proved to be an ideal environment for these transplanted hounds to thrive and develop into the distinct breed we know today. The challenging terrain of lava fields, rocky outcrops, and scrubby vegetation around Mount Etna created intense natural selection pressure that forged dogs of exceptional hardiness, agility, and endurance. Unlike many modern breeds shaped primarily by human selection for specific aesthetic traits, the Sicilian Branchiero evolved through the practical demands of survival and function in an unforgiving landscape.

Archaeological evidence provides compelling documentation of the breed's ancient presence on Sicily. Over 150 different variations of coins minted between the 5th and 3rd centuries BCE in various Sicilian cities feature images of dogs unmistakably resembling the modern Cirneco dell'Etna, often depicted in hunting scenes or as symbols of protection. These coins were produced in cities including Palermo, Erice, and Syracuse, demonstrating that the breed was widespread and highly valued across the island. Additional evidence comes from sculptures, mosaics, and engravings dating from antiquity, including Roman mosaics from the 3rd and 4th centuries CE that depict similar slender hunting hounds.

Legend holds that a thousand of these sacred hounds once guarded the temple of Adranos, the local fire god worshipped in the shadow of Mount Etna. According to ancient accounts, these temple dogs possessed an uncanny ability to distinguish between honest pilgrims and those with ill intent, welcoming the virtuous while driving away the wicked. While such legends may blend myth with reality, they underscore the deep cultural significance and reverence accorded to these dogs in ancient Sicilian society.

For centuries following the classical period, the Sicilian Branchiero continued to serve as an indispensable hunting companion for the peasant farmers of Sicily. Unlike many hunting dogs in continental Europe that were reserved for aristocratic use, these Sicilian hounds belonged to common people who relied on them for subsistence hunting. The dogs excelled at pursuing rabbits and other small game across the rocky volcanic terrain, working tirelessly in extreme heat without food or water for extended periods. Their silent hunting style allowed them to approach prey undetected, while their keen senses of sight, scent, and hearing made them remarkably efficient hunters.

The breed's very success with Sicilian hunters nearly proved its undoing in the modern era. The peasant families who owned these dogs guarded them jealously, refusing to sell puppies or make stud service available to outsiders. This protectiveness, while understandable given the dogs' value to their owners, prevented the breed from becoming known beyond Sicily and limited the genetic diversity of the population. By the early 20th century, the breed had declined significantly and faced the genuine threat of extinction.

The salvation of the Sicilian Branchiero came through the combined efforts of two dedicated individuals. In 1932, Dr. Maurizio Migneco, a veterinarian from Adrano on the slopes of Mount Etna, published an article in the Italian hunting journal 'Il Cacciatore Italiano' that brought attention to the breed's endangered status and called upon dog enthusiasts to help preserve this ancient Sicilian treasure. His plea was answered by Baroness Agata Paternò Castello, a Sicilian noblewoman who became captivated by the breed and devoted the next three decades of her life to its revival.

Baroness Castello faced considerable challenges in her preservation efforts, as the peasant hunters initially resisted her attempts to acquire breeding stock. Undeterred, she traveled throughout Sicily, eventually assembling enough quality specimens to establish her Aetnensis kennel and begin a systematic breeding program. Her tireless advocacy led to the official recognition of the breed by the Italian Kennel Club in 1939, with the adoption of a formal breed standard that added 'dell'Etna' to the name in honor of the volcano that shaped these remarkable dogs. The Società Amatori del Cirneco dell'Etna was founded in 1951, with the Baroness serving as its first president until her death, ensuring the breed's continued preservation for future generations.

The Sicilian Branchiero possesses a temperament that beautifully balances the independent spirit of an ancient hunting breed with the gentle affection of a devoted companion. This combination of traits reflects the breed's dual heritage as both a hardworking hunter shaped by thousands of years of practical selection and a treasured household companion cherished by generations of Sicilian families.

At the core of the Sicilian Branchiero's personality is a strong, independent temperament that served the breed well in its traditional role as a self-reliant hunter. These dogs were developed to work with minimal direction from their handlers, making quick decisions while pursuing prey across challenging volcanic terrain. This independence manifests in the modern companion dog as a certain self-sufficiency and occasional willfulness that can be refreshing for owners who appreciate a dog with its own mind. Unlike breeds that require constant attention and reassurance, the Sicilian Branchiero is content to occupy itself and does not typically suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for reasonable periods.

Despite their independent nature, these dogs form deep, devoted bonds with their families. The Sicilian Branchiero is genuinely affectionate with those it loves, seeking physical closeness and enjoying time spent cuddling under blankets or nestled beside their favorite humans on the couch. Their thin coat and lean body make them sensitive to cold, which only increases their appreciation for warm indoor spaces and cozy spots near their people. This affection is demonstrated in a dignified, low-key manner rather than through excessive neediness or demanding behavior.

The breed is known for being alert and watchful, qualities that made them effective hunters and now make them reliable watchdogs in the home. Their keen senses detect approaching strangers or unusual activity, and they will vocalize to alert their family. However, the Sicilian Branchiero is not an aggressive breed. Their initial wariness toward strangers gives way to acceptance once they sense that a visitor is welcome. Remarkably, these dogs possess excellent memories and will remember people they have met before, even after extended periods, greeting familiar faces with recognition and warmth.

With children, the Sicilian Branchiero is typically gentle, patient, and playful. They particularly thrive in households with older children who understand how to interact respectfully with dogs. The breed's energy and playfulness make them excellent companions for active youngsters who enjoy games and outdoor activities. However, as with any breed, supervision is recommended during interactions with very young children to ensure that play remains appropriate for both child and dog.

The Sicilian Branchiero's social nature extends to other dogs, with whom they generally coexist peacefully. Early socialization helps ensure smooth relationships with canine housemates, and many Sicilian Branchieros actively enjoy having another dog as a companion. This can be beneficial for owners who work during the day, as the dogs' independent nature is complemented by the companionship of a canine friend.

However, the breed's strong prey drive requires careful consideration when it comes to smaller animals. The same instincts that made them exceptional rabbit hunters remain very much intact in the modern pet. While individual dogs may learn to coexist peacefully with cats they have been raised with from puppyhood, the introduction of cats to adult dogs requires caution and supervision. Smaller pets such as rabbits, hamsters, and guinea pigs are generally not safe companions for this breed, as the Sicilian Branchiero may view them as prey regardless of training.

Playfulness is an endearing characteristic that the Sicilian Branchiero retains well into adulthood. These dogs are curious and engaged with their environment, enjoying interactive games, exploration, and activities that stimulate both body and mind. Their hunting heritage means they find particular joy in chase games and activities that tap into their natural instincts. This playful nature contributes to their appeal as family companions and provides opportunities for bonding through shared activities.

The intelligence of the Sicilian Branchiero is evident in their quick learning ability and problem-solving skills. They are observant dogs that pick up on household routines and the moods of their family members. This intelligence, combined with their independent nature, means they may occasionally attempt to make their own decisions about what activities are worth pursuing, which can be amusing but also requires consistent guidance from their owners.

The Sicilian Branchiero adapts remarkably well to family life when its physical and emotional needs are properly met. This versatile breed can thrive in various living situations, from rural properties with acres to explore to urban apartments in bustling cities, provided that owners commit to meeting their exercise requirements and giving them the companionship they crave.

In terms of living space, the Sicilian Branchiero is more flexible than many hunting breeds of similar energy levels. Their medium size and relatively calm indoor demeanor make them suitable for apartment living, though this arrangement requires dedication to daily outdoor exercise. These dogs do not pace restlessly indoors or demand constant activity when their exercise needs are met; instead, they are content to relax on comfortable furniture or nestle under blankets with their family. A securely fenced yard provides valuable opportunities for off-leash play and exercise, but it is not an absolute requirement for this breed.

Fencing deserves special consideration for Sicilian Branchiero owners. These athletic dogs are remarkable jumpers and capable diggers when motivated, so fences should be sufficiently tall (at least six feet) and secure at the base to prevent escapes. Their strong prey drive means that a squirrel or rabbit spotted outside the fence can trigger intense pursuit instincts. Underground electronic fencing is generally not recommended for this breed, as their determination to chase prey often overrides the deterrent effect of the collar.

The breed's sensitivity to cold temperatures significantly influences their living requirements. With their thin, short coat and lean body offering minimal insulation, Sicilian Branchieros need to live indoors as full members of the household. They should never be relegated to outdoor kennels or left outside in cold weather. During winter months, many owners provide sweaters or jackets for their dogs during outdoor excursions, and heated beds or blankets are greatly appreciated. Conversely, their Sicilian heritage means they tolerate warm weather well, though extreme heat still requires sensible precautions.

As family companions, Sicilian Branchieros integrate well into households with children, particularly those with older kids who can participate in the dog's exercise and training. The breed's playful nature and patient temperament make them enjoyable playmates for children who treat them respectfully. Teaching children proper interaction with dogs and supervising playtime ensures positive experiences for everyone. Very young children may find the breed's energy level challenging, and the dog's slender build makes them more vulnerable to accidental injury from rough play.

For families with existing pets, the Sicilian Branchiero can be a compatible addition with proper introductions and management. They typically get along well with other dogs, especially when raised together or properly introduced as adults. Same-sex pairings may occasionally display some competitive behavior, but this is generally manageable with appropriate guidance. Cats present a more complex situation; while many Sicilian Branchieros learn to accept feline housemates they have grown up with, their prey drive makes unsupervised interactions risky. Smaller caged pets should be kept securely separated from the dog at all times.

The Sicilian Branchiero's affectionate nature means they thrive on human companionship and should not be left alone for extended periods regularly. While they handle reasonable solitude better than some breeds due to their independent temperament, they are happiest when included in family activities and daily life. Households where someone is home for most of the day or where the dog can accompany family members to work or on outings provide ideal environments.

First-time dog owners can successfully raise a Sicilian Branchiero, though some experience with dogs is beneficial. The breed's intelligence and trainability make them responsive to consistent, positive training methods, but their independent nature requires patience and understanding. Potential owners should be prepared to commit to proper socialization, regular exercise, and ongoing training to bring out the best in this ancient breed.

The Sicilian Branchiero also adapts well to households with active lifestyles. They make excellent companions for joggers, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts who can include their dog in regular activities. Their athleticism and endurance mean they can keep pace with active owners on various adventures, though their thin coats require protection in cold weather conditions.

The Sicilian Branchiero presents a rewarding training experience for owners who approach the task with patience, consistency, and an understanding of the breed's unique characteristics. Unlike many sighthounds that are notoriously challenging to train, the Sicilian Branchiero is considered more biddable and responsive to instruction, making them an excellent choice for owners seeking an elegant hound with practical trainability.

Positive reinforcement methods yield the best results with this breed. The Sicilian Branchiero responds exceptionally well to praise, often showing greater motivation from verbal encouragement and affection than from food treats alone. This characteristic sets them apart from many breeds and makes training sessions particularly enjoyable for handlers who prefer reward-based approaches that emphasize the bond between dog and owner. When treats are used, small, high-value rewards work best to maintain the dog's interest and attention.

Training sessions should be kept relatively short and engaging to accommodate the breed's intelligent but occasionally independent mind. The Sicilian Branchiero can become bored during lengthy, repetitive training drills, leading to distraction and diminished cooperation. Sessions of ten to fifteen minutes, conducted multiple times throughout the day if desired, produce better results than extended single sessions. Varying the exercises and incorporating games helps maintain the dog's enthusiasm and focus.

Early socialization is crucial for developing a well-adjusted Sicilian Branchiero. Puppies should be exposed to a wide variety of people, places, sounds, and experiences during their critical developmental period. This foundation helps ensure that the natural reserve toward strangers remains appropriate watchfulness rather than developing into shyness or fearfulness. Puppy kindergarten classes provide excellent opportunities for socialization while introducing basic obedience concepts.

The breed's strong prey drive presents the primary training challenge and requires specific attention from the earliest age. While the instinct to chase cannot be eliminated through training, it can be managed with consistent work on recall and impulse control. However, owners should realistically accept that off-leash reliability in unsecured areas will always remain limited for this breed. The sight of a fleeing rabbit or squirrel can override even the best-trained dog's recall response, making secure fencing and leash walking essential safety measures.

The Sicilian Branchiero excels in various canine sports that channel their natural abilities. Lure coursing provides an ideal outlet for their chase instincts in a controlled environment, allowing them to pursue a mechanical lure at full speed across an open field. This activity satisfies their hunting drive while providing intense physical exercise and mental stimulation. Many breed clubs organize coursing events specifically for this purpose.

Agility training and competition represent another excellent activity for the Sicilian Branchiero. Their athleticism, intelligence, and willingness to work with handlers make them natural candidates for navigating obstacle courses. The breed's lean build and quick reflexes enable them to perform impressively on the agility course, while the training process strengthens the bond between dog and owner through collaborative problem-solving.

Obedience and rally competitions offer opportunities to showcase the breed's trainability in more structured settings. While they may not achieve the mechanical precision of breeds specifically developed for obedience work, well-trained Sicilian Branchieros can earn respectable scores and titles while enjoying the mental engagement these activities provide.

Exercise requirements for the Sicilian Branchiero are moderate to high, reflecting their athletic heritage as tireless hunters. Daily exercise should include at least 30 to 60 minutes of physical activity, though active dogs will happily participate in more extensive exercise programs. A combination of leash walks, secure off-leash play, and mentally stimulating activities provides ideal fulfillment of their needs.

Mental exercise is equally important for this intelligent breed. Puzzle toys, scent work activities, and training games help keep their minds engaged and prevent boredom-related behavior problems. The breed's keen sense of smell makes nose work and tracking activities particularly enjoyable and rewarding pursuits that tap into their natural hunting abilities.

The Sicilian Branchiero enjoys a reputation as one of the healthiest purebred dogs, benefiting from thousands of years of natural selection that eliminated individuals with significant genetic weaknesses. The harsh conditions of Sicily's volcanic landscape allowed only the hardiest specimens to survive and reproduce, resulting in a breed with remarkable overall health and vitality. With proper care, these dogs typically live between 12 to 14 years, with many individuals remaining active and healthy well into their senior years.

These athletic injuries generally heal well with appropriate rest and veterinary care when needed. Owners engaged in coursing or agility should be attentive to signs of strain or injury following intense physical activity.

The Sicilian Branchiero ranks among the lowest-maintenance breeds in terms of grooming requirements, making them an excellent choice for owners who prefer to spend more time enjoying their dog's companionship than maintaining an elaborate coat. Their short, fine coat requires minimal attention to maintain its healthy, gleaming appearance.

Coat care for the Sicilian Branchiero consists primarily of weekly brushing with a hound glove, soft bristle brush, or rubber curry brush. This brief grooming session removes loose hair, distributes natural skin oils throughout the coat, and stimulates healthy circulation in the skin. The brushing process also provides an opportunity to examine the dog for any lumps, bumps, skin irritations, or external parasites that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Bathing should be kept to a minimum, as over-bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils and lead to dry, itchy skin. Most Sicilian Branchieros only require bathing when they have gotten into something particularly dirty or smelly. When bathing is necessary, a gentle dog shampoo followed by thorough rinsing and drying is sufficient. A spray-on conditioner can be applied between baths if the coat appears dry or flaky, though this is seldom necessary with healthy dogs on a proper diet.

Shedding in this breed is moderate and manageable. While no dog is truly non-shedding, the Sicilian Branchiero loses relatively little hair compared to many other breeds. Regular brushing helps control loose hair before it ends up on furniture and clothing. Some owners report slightly increased shedding during seasonal coat changes in spring and fall, when more frequent brushing can help manage the additional loose hair.

Dental care requires more attention than coat care for this breed, as the fine-boned structure of sighthounds often correlates with a tendency toward dental issues. Like many dogs that do not aggressively chew their food, the Sicilian Branchiero can accumulate plaque and tartar on the teeth, potentially leading to periodontal disease if not addressed. Daily tooth brushing with a veterinary-approved canine toothpaste provides the gold standard of dental care, though brushing several times per week offers substantial benefit. Dental chews and water additives can supplement brushing but should not replace it entirely. Regular professional dental cleanings should be scheduled as recommended by the veterinarian.

Ear care is important due to the breed's large, upright ears. While the erect ear position allows good air circulation and makes these ears less prone to infection than pendant ears, regular inspection and cleaning prevent problems. Weekly checks should look for excessive wax buildup, redness, odor, or signs of irritation. Gentle cleaning with a veterinary-approved ear cleaner and cotton balls removes debris from the visible portions of the ear canal.

Nail trimming requires attention every two to three weeks or whenever the nails can be heard clicking on hard floors. Like many sighthounds, the Sicilian Branchiero can be sensitive about having their feet handled, making early desensitization to nail care essential. Starting nail handling and trimming from puppyhood, paired with positive associations through treats and praise, helps develop tolerance for this necessary grooming task. Care must be taken not to cut into the quick, as negative experiences can make future nail trimming difficult.

The Sicilian Branchiero's thin coat provides minimal protection against environmental elements, necessitating additional care in certain conditions. During cold weather, most dogs of this breed appreciate and benefit from wearing a sweater or jacket during outdoor excursions. After walks in rain or snow, they should be dried thoroughly to prevent chilling. In summer, their light-colored skin may be susceptible to sunburn during extended sun exposure, particularly on sparsely-haired areas.

Regular inspection of the paws and pads is advisable, particularly for dogs that exercise on varied terrain. The breed's active nature and enthusiasm for running can result in minor cuts, abrasions, or embedded foreign objects between the toes. Checking paws after outdoor activities and addressing any issues promptly prevents minor problems from developing into more serious concerns.