Classification: Mythical Beasts & Cryptids

Temporal Range: Ancient

Geographic Range: The gates of various forms of hell

Diet: Carnivorous

Horde: Wild Beasts

If you catch a whiff of the overpowering smell of brimstone and hear a low growl, you may be being stalked by a Hellhound. If you turn around, it's likely you’ll spot an oversized and menacing black dog, with burning red eyes and a hunger for your flesh. These creatures are prevalent all over the world and have two main duties.

The first is as an omen of death. To see a Hellhound likely means that death is coming for you. It could be here to do the job for you and rip you to pieces. But more than likely, it's here to claim your soul and carry it off to the underworld.

Which brings us neatly to its second duty. In various different parts of the world, the Hellhound is the guardian of the gates of hell. Whether that’s something akin to Cerberus guarding the Underworld or Garm standing by the goddess Hel’s side in her domain, the job is always the same - keep the dead in and keep the living out.

The ultimate guard dog, the Hellhound is fiercely loyal to the keeper of its realm so don't expect it to switch sides and come running to heel for you. That is, unless you’re suddenly in possession of some otherworldly real estate and you’re looking for a new guardian. Then we’re sure you’ve picked the perfect candidate.

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