Saxon Elkhound

Saxon Elkhound
File:Saxonelkhound.jpg
Adult female Saxon Elkhound
Conservation status
Vulnerable (IUCN 3.1)
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Mammalia
Order:	Carnivora
Family:	Canidae
Genus:	Canis
Species:	C. montium
Binomial name
Canis montium Grandook Smadge, 1854

The Saxon Elkhound (Seaxisc Eolhund) is a canid native to Brytene, with an estimated population of 2,200 wild individuals across Brytene. The species has also been successfully domesticated since approximately the 7th Century, and is a popular pet for active individuals and households. They are also the primary military service dog of the Confederate Brytisc Fleet.

Description

The Saxon elkhound is a large canid, ranging from 60-70cm tall and 34-44kg in weight. They are typically various shades of gray and white, sable and white, black and white, seal and white, red and white, or solid white. The fur may range in length but tends towards short, although it is thick and soft to retain heat. The tail is typically long and fluffy.

The Saxon elkhound has a deep, broad snout and pointed, upright ears. It has a strong jaw and bite and has a moderately heavy build, and is fastest over short distances. It is built for endurance.

Behaviour

The Saxon elkhound is native to Brytene and are pack animals. They are carnivores, and are believed to have been directly responsible for the extinction of many of the species of megafauna of Brytene in prehistoric periods.

File:Elkhound hunt.jpg

An elkhound undergoing military training

They are social and intelligent animals, and are comparatively easy to domesticate. They make for good pets and working dogs, but their high energy levels and boisterous nature make them unsuitable for inactive owners or those with very young children.

Saxon elkhounds are very vocal, and both bark and howl frequently. They are capable of recognising human commands and tones and reacting appropriately.

In the wild, Saxon elkhounds prey on a variety of animals, and are carnivorous. They are one of the few animals to predate the Ballaugh deer.

Habitat

The Saxon elkhound is found mostly in the mountainous regions of Brytene, including the Nortymbrian Spine mountain range and the hills of Dyflin Canton. They are rugged creatures and prefer forested or rocky areas where they can stalk and track their prey. Many of the natural ranges of the elkhound are contained within the network of Brytisc National Parks.

Threats

The Saxon elkhound is an apex predator, although it occasionally comes into conflict with larger species of bear. It has no known predators in the wild. Wild populations are healthy and stable, if low, but there are thousands of domesticated elkhounds across Brytene.

Notable individuals

• Porkchop - Male, 3 years old, belongs to Aoife Brighteye
• Campfire - Female, 3 years old, belongs to Aoife Brighteye