Viringo (Small)

Origins and History

The Viringo (Small) is a recent entrant to the Miscellaneous Breed Group, first documented in the early 2000s in the United States. It originated from a deliberate cross‑breeding program that combined small terrier‑type breeds with select companion dogs to produce a compact, alert, and affectionate pet. Because the Viringo has not yet been recognized by major kennel clubs, its development history is based on breeder records rather than an official registry.

General Characteristics

• Size and build: A compact, well‑balanced dog with a slightly longer than tall body, a deep chest, and a straight topline.
• Temperament highlights: Energetic, inquisitive, and highly sociable; forms strong bonds with families and adapts well to apartment living.
• Primary breed purpose: Companion animal with a strong desire to participate in conformation and performance events.

Disclaimer: The Viringo (Small) is not yet recognized by an international kennel club; therefore, the information below reflects typical traits of small miscellaneous breeds and the limited data provided by the breed’s founding breeders.

Physical Specifications

• Height: Males: 9-12 inches (23-30 cm); Females: 8-11 inches (20-28 cm) at the withers.
• Weight: Males: 5-10 pounds (2.3-4.5 kg); Females: 4-9 pounds (1.8-4.1 kg).

Coat and Color

• Texture and length: Medium‑length double coat; outer coat is straight to slightly wavy, undercoat is dense for insulation.
• Accepted colors and patterns: Solid black, chocolate, liver, red, and tricolor (black & tan with white). White markings may appear on the chest, paws, and tip of the tail.

Temperament Considerations

The Viringo is highly motivated by praise and play, but its terrier ancestry can produce a strong prey drive and occasional stubbornness. Early, consistent, and positive‑reinforcement methods work best.

Training Essentials

• Socialization requirements: Introduce to a variety of people, sounds, and environments between 8 and 16 weeks to prevent timidity.
• Exercise needs: Minimum 30‑45 minutes of brisk activity daily; interactive toys and short agility sessions satisfy mental stamina.
• Common training challenges: Tendency to chase small animals, occasional digging, and a desire to be the center of attention, which can lead to attention‑seeking behaviors if not managed.

Daily Grooming

• Brushing frequency and tools: Brush 2‑3 times per week with a slicker brush to remove loose undercoat and prevent matting.
• Bathing requirements: Bath as needed, typically every 4‑6 weeks, using a mild dog shampoo to preserve natural oils.
• Nail and dental care: Trim nails every 2‑3 weeks; brush teeth daily or provide dental chews to reduce plaque buildup.

Show Preparation

• Pre‑show grooming timeline: Begin a full coat trim 7‑10 days before the show, followed by a final brush‑out and a light bath 24‑48 hours prior.
• Ring presentation tips: Maintain a high head carriage, a steady trot, and a clean, well‑conditioned coat; ensure ears are free of debris and the tail is set according to the breed’s natural carriage.

Common Health Issues

• Patellar luxation (grade I‑II) – common in small breeds; regular orthopedic checks are advised.
• Dental overcrowding – small mouths predispose to early tooth loss; routine dental exams are essential.
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) – reported anecdotally in early breeding lines; DNA testing recommended for breeding stock.

General Care

• Exercise requirements: Consistent moderate activity to maintain muscle tone and prevent obesity.
• Nutritional needs: High‑quality small‑breed formula, portioned to maintain ideal body condition; avoid over‑feeding treats.
• Lifespan considerations: Expected longevity of 12‑15 years with proper care, regular veterinary wellness exams, and preventive health screening.