Direhound

Direhounds are massive, broad-shouldered canines that have existed prior to pre-civilized Azora. Due to their immense weight and size, the direhound is easily considered one of, if not , the largest domesticated predators in the world.   Direhounds are a double-coated canid species, having a thick and coarse topcoat with a softer, insulating undercoat. Most breeds of direhound also possess a mane-like ruff which acts as a form of protection, making it harder for larger animals to bite their necks.   Direhounds have a dense bone structure, given to them through generations of domesticated breeding and pedigree, which grants them exceptional strength relative to their already impressive size. Their four limbs are long and bowed slightly, built for bracing or wrestling against large prey as well as hauling sleds or toboggans.   The skull of the direhound is broad, with long, sharp teeth used for gripping and tearing food and prey. Unlike most dogs, the formation of the direhounds teeth curve more aggressively, forming a hook-like structure that makes it harder for prey to break free from without causing more harm to themselves.   Another hallmark of the direhound is its impressive lung capacity. Direhounds typically possess large, barrel-like chests which grants them an abundant lung volume and oxygen uptake. Because of this, direhounds can sustain longer, more powerful bursts of power and energy for chases and long distance tracking.   One of the most notable traits though is the form of sexual dimorphism which occurs between the genders. Males tend to be smaller, but have thicker and rougher fur, as well as having thicker and more pronounced manes. Females, while larger, are more lithe in appearance, but possess sharper reflexes and sharper senses which has made many animal specialists wonder if the direhound possess a form of animalistic matriarchy.

The Direhound is a large canine species native to Azora and, because of this, it has many breeds that make it unique to the various regions it inhabits. These traits, while they do not entirely impact the animal, give each region a distinctive look based around the Direhound commonly found in each region.  

Adrausii Direhound

 

Litzenii Mountain Dog

 

Draylasii Prariehound

 

Alwynii Moorhound

Since time immemorial, the direhounds have existed in the harsh, cold, and rugged reaches of northern Azora, Drausk, and southernmost reaches of the North Pole.   Typically found of the large mountain ranges and taigas, as well as the dense boreal forests around northern Adraus and central Litzen. They are also seen within the vast marshlands of Alwyn and Draylas.   While domesticated, direhounds still have the natural instincts to track and hunt wild creatures such as elk, reindeer, certain bear species, snow oxen, and even the various dragons of the Sereskalan Mountains.   Today though, many of the direhounds find themselves in more civilized roles such as working alongside the various militaries of northern nations, sled teams, caravan guards, and even living lives with both the poor and middle classes as well as the privileged elites and heads of states.