Barghest

The Barghest, or Barguest, comes from the north of England, particularly the Yorkshire area. There is a rich culture of Black Dogs in the British Isles, and this one is said to be lurking around the northern parts of England since the 1830s.

Usually described as a large, monstrous black dog with fiery eyes, it sometimes appears as a spirit, and sometimes as a real creature. Occasionally, it’s a chain-rattling ghost, and sometimes a household elf - but no one is ever pleased to see them.

The Barghest is said to be an omen of death - to see one is to court death. They are said to follow people doomed to die soon, howling as though already mourning. If anyone should try to chase them off, they will attack - and if they strike you with teeth or claws, they will leave a wound that will never heal. It can also foretell death by lying across the threshold of a house. Interestingly, it is said they can’t cross rivers, like witches and some vampires.

I still think they’re heckin’ good doggos, though. I’ve been trying to figure out a way to get them into my stories for ages but so far - no luck! Alas.

Do you think I should find a way? I’m working on series three now, so there’s still time…