Homebrew Arcanis Familiaris Species Details

Arcanis Familiaris, or Magic Dogs as they are more colloquially known these days, are few and far between. This is because they are regular dogs and wolves that are chosen by some higher power, or in some cases they happen upon it instead by wondering into the wrong cave or disturbing arcane research. This usually results in a transformation, triggered by being bathed in arcane, divine or even natural energies, which leads to them becoming smarter, stronger, generally more capable, similar to the more dominant bipedal races of the world. They still have all the memories and instincts of being a regular dog, as they learn more about the world through their new eyes they can be like children, having to learn social norms and the ways of the world.

Arcanis Familiaris Traits

A race that is incredibly loyal to those that have befriended it, depending on its breed and how it was created can however determine what it excels at.

Bite

Your teeth are natural weapons, which you can use to make unarmed strikes. If you hit with them, you deal piercing damage equal to 1d4 + your Strength modifier, instead of the bludgeoning damage normal for an unarmed strike. Bite also applies poison for one minute upon failing a constitution save of 8.

Ability Score Increase

Imbued by unforeseen power, these dogs have been blessed with additional abilities in certain aspects of their lives.

Keen senses

You gain advantage for perception rolls involving your nose or ears.

Man's Best Friend

You gain advantage on attack rolls against foes who have successfully attacked an ally this last round.

Speak with Animals

You gain the speak with animals ability.

Languages

You can speak, write (in certain circumstances) and read Common and 1 other language.