Grey Dog

Anatomy

  Grey Dogs are carnivorous canines that closely resemble wolves, although they are notably bulkier and covered in less fur. Believed to have originated from a combination of crossbreeding and rapid mutation, Grey Dogs are a common sight across all areas of Mars, and although they generally avoid humans, travelers should be wary of roaming packs that may attack humans due to hunger.   Although Grey Dogs are canines, they are more often than not compared to bears due to their size and power. Covered in a relatively thin layer of fur, their bulky muscles are often visible to the naked eye, and their oversized teeth often protrude from their mouth. Although their eyes are relatively small, they have unusually good eyesight, and can often spot prey before they spot it. Whilst hunting, Grey Dogs often surround their prey and herd it into difficult terrain, thereafter going for the kill utilizing their sharp teeth and claws.   Grey Dogs are also quite resilient, with some claiming to have seen dogs with half their face missing, or wide gaping holes giving a rather nasty view of their innards. Moreover, they possess a surprising amount of agility considering their size and can climb trees with rapid speed.

Diet and Reproduction

  Grey Dogs are carnivorous hunters and scavengers and will eat practically any kind of meat they can find. More often than not they will hunt mammals as a pack, although lone dogs sometimes manage to survive on their own. Grey Dogs are considered to be apex predators, bar exceptions such as The Damned, although they rarely venture outside of their pack's territory.   Grey Dogs mate for life, although mates can be replaced if one of the pair dies. Grey Dogs often remain close to their dens, which are found either underground or in man-made structures, and pups are raised in the safety of dens.

Habitat and Behaviours

  Grey Dogs are found all across Mars, although they tend to stay away from settlements and regularly traveled routes. They prefer heavily-forested areas and will steer clear of open terrain wherever possible, although they have been noted to cross open terrain to reach large abandoned structures.   Grey Dogs prefer to avoid human contact, although their need for food often outweighs their fear of people. It is advised to avoid traveling for long periods of time in known Grey Dog territory, as packs will often ambush lone travelers who venture too far. If avoidance is impossible, then caution is advised, as even a single dog can take multiple rounds to take down.