Homebrew Dogfolk Species Details

In the rich tapestry of fantastical realms, amidst the bustling towns and verdant forests, roam the Dogfolk, a remarkable race of humanoid beings adorned with the endearing features of their loyal canine companions.
With their furry heads crowned by perky ears, expressive eyes that mirror their boundless enthusiasm, and tails that wag in joyous greeting, the Dogfolk radiate an aura of warmth and unwavering loyalty.

— Elaine Cunningham, Daughter of the Drow

Blessed with plantigrade legs and dexterous hands boasting five fingers, including an opposable thumb, the Dogfolk possess a unique blend of canine agility and humanoid finesse. This fusion of traits enables them to navigate their surroundings with grace and precision, whether traversing rugged terrain or engaging in intricate tasks.

A Broad Spectrum

Introducing the Dogfolk, humanoid beings with the endearing features of dogs. With their furry heads, wagging tails, and keen senses, they exude loyalty and warmth. Born inherently good, they despise evil and wrongdoing, yet are willing to challenge laws for what they deem right. Possessing a natural insight, they can discern malevolent intentions.

Good from the Heart

Yet, it is not merely their physical attributes that set the Dogfolk apart, but the essence of their being—their unwavering commitment to goodness and righteousness. From the moment of their birth, they are imbued with an innate sense of morality, an intrinsic understanding of right and wrong that shapes their every action and decision. Though they may be tempted by the allure of darkness, the call of evil holds no sway over their noble hearts, for they are steadfast guardians of virtue, defenders of all that is just and true.

EVERYONE’S BEST FRIENDS

Like their animal counter parts, Dogfolk mingle with members of other races. They get along with almost everyone, though they might not be close to many. Dogfolk serve as ambassadors, diplomats, magistrates, merchants, and functionaries of all kinds.

Dwarves. "Aye, those Dogfolk may lack the sturdy build of us dwarves, but by Moradin's beard, their 'Mile Smell' is a blessing in these dark caverns. Always sniffing out trouble before it finds us."

Elves. "Ah, the Dogfolk, with their unwavering sense of goodness and loyalty. While their ways may seem simple to some, their hearts shine brightly with compassion and an unyielding commitment to what they believe is right."

Halflings. "Those Dogfolk may be a bit rambunctious with their wagging tails and boundless energy, but beneath their playful exterior lies hearts as pure as freshly baked pie. Good-natured and loyal to the bone, they're the kind of companions you'd want by your side on any adventure.

Lasting Institutions

At the core of their being lies a keen intuition, honed by years of companionship and mutual trust.
This innate gift grants them a remarkable proficiency in insight, allowing them to discern the true intentions of those around them with uncanny accuracy.
Whether faced with a friend or foe, ally or adversary, the Dogfolk possess an intuitive understanding of the complexities of the human (or humanoid) heart, enabling them to navigate social landscapes with finesse and grace.

Smelling Sense

But perhaps the most remarkable of their abilities is their unparalleled sense of smell, a trait that has been honed over generations of canine ancestry. Known as "Mile Smell," this extraordinary olfactory prowess allows them to detect scents from great distances, offering tantalizing hints about their surroundings. Though it may not provide precise details, it grants them a unique perspective on the world, allowing them to anticipate potential dangers or opportunities lurking nearby.

Human Names and Ethnicities

In Dogfolk culture, names are more than mere labels; they're playful expressions of a dog's essence and heritage. Drawing inspiration from the diverse array of canine breeds and traits, Dogfolk names are crafted with wordplay that reflects both the individual's personality and their ethnic lineage. From "Barkley" to "Pawsper," each name serves as a whimsical nod to the rich tapestry of Dogfolk society, celebrating their unique qualities and contributions.

Dogfolk culture reflects their diverse origins: forest communities revere nature, coastal settlements thrive on trade and exploration, while urban centers showcase innovation and craftsmanship. Yet, their shared values of goodness, loyalty, and kinship bind them together across all regions.

In the Forgotten Realms, four Dogfolk ethnic groups are widely recognized, though over a dozen others are found in more localized areas of Faerûn. These groups, and the typical names of their members, can be used as inspiration no matter which world your Dogfolk is in.

Sheperd

In the tranquil countryside, Shepherd Dogfolk tend to their flocks with care and dedication. Standing around 1.4m to 1.8m meters tall, they blend seamlessly into the landscape with coats of earthy browns and soft creams.

Sheperd Names: (Male) Shepherdius, Barkley, Rusty, Patch, Scout, Rover, Timber; (female) Fleecia, Sheperra, Woolina, Ewella, Grazia, Flocka, Shepherdine, Lambelle; (surnames) Woolridge, Herdmane, Grazefield, Flocksby, Shepardsen, Lamberton, Pasturell

Retriever

Retriever Dogfolk, coastal adventurers standing 1.4m to 1.8 meters tall, excel in maritime pursuits like fishing and seafaring. Renowned for loyalty and agility, they craft ships reflecting their love for the sea in bustling coastal communities.

Retriever Names: (Male) Seaford, Tideus, Marlin, Finnegan, Sailor, Wave, Neptune, Cove, Anchor, Reef; (female) Fetcha, Seapup, Sandyrella, Coraline, Tidalia, Wavelet, Marigold, Seashell, Meribelle; (surnames) Seabrook, Wavecrest, Mariner, Oceanview, Shoreland, Saltwater

Terrier

In the mines, Terrier Dogfolk excel with their resilience and hard work. Standing around 1.2 to 1.5 meters tall, they navigate tunnels effortlessly, their coats providing protection. They embody determination and camaraderie underground.

Terrier Names: (Male) Digby, Miner, Rocky, Pit, Quarry, Spike, Nugget, Rusty, Shaft, Coalby; (female) Terra, Ruby, Gemma, Dusty, Pebbles, Shalea, Ember, Coalie; (surnames) Stonepaw, Coalhound, Mineridge, Pitford, Tunneler, Quarrytail, Shaftwood, Diggermane

Hounds

In the wild forests, Hound Dogfolk thrive, known for their keen senses and loyalty. Standing around 1.8 to 2.1 meters tall, they navigate terrain effortlessly, blending with their coats. Whether hunting or guarding, they embody resilience and unity in woodland life.

Hounds Names: (Male) Ander, Blath, Bran, Frath, Geth, Lander, Luth, Malcer, Stor, Taman, Urth; (female) Amafrey, Betha, Cefrey, Kethra, Mara, Olga, Silifrey, Westra; (surnames) Brightwood, Helder, Hornraven, Lackman, Stormwind, Windrivver

 

Dogfolk Traits

Humanoids with canine traits, embodying loyalty, agility, and keen senses in diverse landscapes.

Keen Scent

"Keen Scent" is a remarkable ability inherent to Dogfolk, granting them the extraordinary capacity to detect odors from significant distances. Enhanced by their keen senses, Dogfolk can discern subtle scents on the air, offering invaluable insights into their surroundings. This heightened olfactory perception allows them to detect the presence of hidden dangers, such as lurking predators or concealed traps, as well as uncover potential sources of sustenance or valuable resources. Whether navigating dense forests, bustling cities, or treacherous caverns, Dogfolk rely on their "Keen Scent" to guide them, providing an additional layer of sensory awareness that proves indispensable in their adventures and endeavors.

However, in environments saturated with overpowering odors, such as dense swamps or fetid marshlands, the Dogfolk's "Keen Scent" can become a double-edged sword. Instead of providing clarity, the multitude of competing smells can overwhelm their senses, causing confusion and disorientation. The cacophony of odors, ranging from decaying vegetation to stagnant water, can prove distracting and distressing, hindering their ability to focus on more subtle scents or discern meaningful information. In such situations, the Dogfolk may find themselves increasingly frustrated and agitated, their heightened sensitivity becoming a source of annoyance rather than an advantage.

 

Wisdom Increase

After all their cooperation for a better future dogfolks knows a lot about what to touch/eat and not.
You gain +1 in Wisdom.

Lasting Intuitions

Get profeciency in "insight"

Age

Dogfolk reach adulthood in their late teens and live less than a century.

Size

Humans vary widely in height and build, from barely 5 feet to well over 6 feet tall. Regardless of your position in that range, your size is Medium.

Speed

Your base walking speed is 30 feet.

Languages

You can speak, read, and write Common and one extra language of your choice. Dogfolks typically learn the languages of other peoples they deal with, including obscure dialects. They are fond of sprinkling their speech with words borrowed from other tongues: Orc curses, Elvish musical expressions, Dwarvish military phrases, and so on.