Black Dog
Basic Information
Anatomy
Black Dogs appear as large, monstrous, goblin-like dogs with glowing red or yellow eyes, huge teeth, and razor-sharp claws. Their fur is pitch black, often appearing to absorb light rather than reflect it. They have a ghostly or ethereal presence, making them seem even more terrifying in the darkness.
Genetics and Reproduction
Black Dogs do not reproduce in a traditional sense. They are supernatural entities, often created through dark magic or as manifestations of malevolent forces. Some are believed to be the familiars of witches and warlocks, summoned to serve their masters.
Ecology and Habitats
Black Dogs are typically seen in graveyards, old battlegrounds, and other places associated with death and darkness. They appear only at night, often during times of distress or imminent death. Some Black Dogs act as guardians, guiding travelers or protecting sacred grounds.
Dietary Needs and Habits
Black Dogs do not require food in the traditional sense. They feed on fear and despair, drawing strength from the emotions of the living. Some may also feed on the souls of the recently deceased, guiding them to the afterlife.
Behaviour
Black Dogs are generally regarded as sinister and malevolent, though some may act benevolently, guiding or protecting those in need. They are often seen as omens of death, and their appearance can cause great fear and panic. They are intelligent and cunning, capable of outsmarting those who try to confront them.
Additional Information
Domestication
Black Dogs often form symbiotic relationships with dark magic practitioners, acting as protectors and companions. They may also coexist with other spectral entities in places of death and darkness.
Average Intelligence
Black Dogs possess high intelligence, capable of understanding and following complex commands. They are often used as familiars by witches and warlocks due to their loyalty and cunning.
Perception and Sensory Capabilities
Black Dogs have heightened senses, especially sight and smell. They can see perfectly in the dark and have the ability to detect life forces. Some are capable of sensing impending death and can appear to those who are about to die.
Civilization and Culture
Common Myths and Legends
The Grim of Evernight Forest
In the depths of the Evernight Forest, tales are told of a Grim, a ghostly black dog with glowing blue eyes. This spectral hound is said to appear before significant events, guiding lost travelers to safety or warning them of impending danger. The Grim is revered as a guardian spirit by the local inhabitants of Evernight, believed to protect the forest and its secrets from intruders. The Harbinger of Shadevale
In the shadowy region of Shadevale, a malevolent Black Dog known as the Harbinger roams the desolate landscapes. This fearsome creature is said to be an omen of death, appearing to those who are marked for an untimely demise. According to legend, the Harbinger was once a loyal companion to a powerful sorcerer who betrayed his master. Cursed to wander Shadevale, the Harbinger now serves as a grim reminder of the sorcerer's treachery. The Guardian of Elysian Fields
In the serene and sacred Elysian Fields, a benevolent Black Dog known as the Guardian watches over the souls of the departed. This gentle spirit is said to guide lost souls to their final resting place, ensuring they find peace in the afterlife. The Guardian is revered by the inhabitants of the Elysian Fields, who believe that the dog's presence brings comfort and protection to those who have passed on. The Wailing Hound of Stormwatch Highlands
In the stormy and treacherous Stormwatch Highlands, there are stories of a Black Dog whose mournful howls can be heard on the eve of great calamities. Known as the Wailing Hound, this spectral creature is believed to cry out when a tragedy is about to occur. Local legend suggests that the Wailing Hound was once a loyal protector of a Highland chieftain, cursed to wander the land after failing to save its master from betrayal. The dog's cries are a warning to those who hear them, urging them to be vigilant against impending danger. The Hellhound of Ashen Peaks
In the volcanic region of the Ashen Peaks, tales are told of a Hellhound that emerges from the fiery depths during eruptions. This fearsome Black Dog is said to be a messenger of death, its appearance a sure sign that someone nearby is about to meet their end. Despite its fearsome reputation, some stories speak of the Hellhound saving those it deems worthy, leading them away from danger. The dual nature of the Hellhound—both harbinger and protector—reflects the complex relationship humans have with the supernatural.
In the depths of the Evernight Forest, tales are told of a Grim, a ghostly black dog with glowing blue eyes. This spectral hound is said to appear before significant events, guiding lost travelers to safety or warning them of impending danger. The Grim is revered as a guardian spirit by the local inhabitants of Evernight, believed to protect the forest and its secrets from intruders. The Harbinger of Shadevale
In the shadowy region of Shadevale, a malevolent Black Dog known as the Harbinger roams the desolate landscapes. This fearsome creature is said to be an omen of death, appearing to those who are marked for an untimely demise. According to legend, the Harbinger was once a loyal companion to a powerful sorcerer who betrayed his master. Cursed to wander Shadevale, the Harbinger now serves as a grim reminder of the sorcerer's treachery. The Guardian of Elysian Fields
In the serene and sacred Elysian Fields, a benevolent Black Dog known as the Guardian watches over the souls of the departed. This gentle spirit is said to guide lost souls to their final resting place, ensuring they find peace in the afterlife. The Guardian is revered by the inhabitants of the Elysian Fields, who believe that the dog's presence brings comfort and protection to those who have passed on. The Wailing Hound of Stormwatch Highlands
In the stormy and treacherous Stormwatch Highlands, there are stories of a Black Dog whose mournful howls can be heard on the eve of great calamities. Known as the Wailing Hound, this spectral creature is believed to cry out when a tragedy is about to occur. Local legend suggests that the Wailing Hound was once a loyal protector of a Highland chieftain, cursed to wander the land after failing to save its master from betrayal. The dog's cries are a warning to those who hear them, urging them to be vigilant against impending danger. The Hellhound of Ashen Peaks
In the volcanic region of the Ashen Peaks, tales are told of a Hellhound that emerges from the fiery depths during eruptions. This fearsome Black Dog is said to be a messenger of death, its appearance a sure sign that someone nearby is about to meet their end. Despite its fearsome reputation, some stories speak of the Hellhound saving those it deems worthy, leading them away from danger. The dual nature of the Hellhound—both harbinger and protector—reflects the complex relationship humans have with the supernatural.
A Black Dog (Also called Barghest, Grim, Black Shuck or hellhound) is a monstrous, goblin dog, with huge teeth and claws, that appears only at night. It was believed that those who saw one clearly would die soon after, while those who caught only a glimpse of the beast would live on, but only for some months.
Scientific Name
Order: Harbinger
Family: Hellhound
Genus: Black Dog
Species: Barghest, Grim, Black Shuck
Family: Hellhound
Genus: Black Dog
Species: Barghest, Grim, Black Shuck
Lifespan
Immortal
Conservation Status
Supernatural Entity (Immortal unless exorcised or destroyed)
Average Height
Varies, typically around 4 to 6 feet at the shoulder
Body Tint, Colouring and Marking
Black Dogs are completely black, with fur that seems to absorb light. Their eyes glow red or yellow, adding to their terrifying appearance. Some may have spectral markings that become visible when they are angered or excited.
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