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(→‎Finding items: Dog ran off and found a boy. Couldn't keep him, but really funny.)
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{{for|the dog in ''Dragon Age II''|Dog (Dragon Age II)}}
  
{{for|the dog in ''Dragon Age II''|Dog (Dragon Age II)}}
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{{Quote|Woof!}}
   
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<onlyinclude>{{CharacterTransformer
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<onlyinclude>{{CreatureTransformer
 
|style = {{{style|}}}
  
|style = {{{style|}}}
 
|name = [[Dog]]
  
|name = [[Dog]]
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|longtitle = [[Dog|The Mabari War Dog]]
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|image = Dog image.png
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|image = Dog_image.png
  
 
|px = 270px
  
|px = 270px
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|title = [[Mabari War Dog]]
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|affiliation = [[Mabari]], [[The Warden]]
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|gender = Male
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|class = [[Warrior (Origins)|Warrior]]
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|race = [[Mabari]]
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|skills = [[Dog talents|War Dog]]
 
|appearances = [[Dragon Age: Origins]] <br> [[Witch Hunt]]
  
|appearances = [[Dragon Age: Origins]] <br> [[Witch Hunt]]
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|class = [[Warrior]]
  
 
}}</onlyinclude>
  
}}</onlyinclude>
   
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"'''Dog'''" is the default name of a [[Mabari|Mabari war hound]] who can join the party at the [[Deserted Farmland]] or [[Highever]] ([[Human Noble Origin]]) and serves as [[the Warden]]'s faithful [[companion]]. Dog is a full party member, counting as a [[warrior]] who has war hound-specific abilities that he can learn, and character specific equipment in the form of [[collars]] and [[kaddis]]. He also has party banter and interactions, as well as a territory-marking exploration game, which involves locating and subsequently having Dog "mark" various points in the different locales the party visits. Doing so activates [[Codex entry: Mabari Dominance|Mabari Dominance]], which is detailed lower on the page. Not all locations have landmarks to mark, however.
 +
"'''Dog'''" is the default name of a male [[mabari]] war hound, one potential (and unquestionably faithful) [[Companions (Origins)|companion]] to [[the Warden]]. He is a full party member, counting as a [[warrior]] with a unique [[Dog talents|talent tree]] and exclusive [[Dog#Equipment|equipment]]. He also has party banter, occasional moments of "dialogue", a sort of [[Dog#Finding items|loot-scrounging]] function, and a "[[Dog#Landmark explorations|landmark]]" interactive feature.
   
 
== Background ==
  
== Background ==
−
Dogs are an essential part of [[Ferelden]] culture, and no dog is more prized than the mabari. The breed is as old as myth, said to have been bred from the wolves who served the legendary hero [[Dane]].
 +
Dogs are an essential part of [[Ferelden]] culture, and no dog is more prized than a mabari. The breed is as old as myth, said to have been bred from the wolves who served the legendary hero [[Dane]].
   
 
== Involvement ==
  
== Involvement ==
−
Dog is obtained in one of two ways in [[Dragon Age: Origins|''Origins'']]; a third, "last chance" opportunity is added with the ''[[Return to Ostagar]]'' DLC.
 +
Dog is obtained in one of two ways in [[Dragon Age: Origins|''Origins'']]; a third, "last chance" opportunity is added with the ''[[Return to Ostagar]]'' [[Downloadable content (Origins)|DLC]].
−
{{DAOSpoiler|style=short|
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{{SpoilerDAO|style=short|
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[[Human Noble]]s obtain Dog during the origin story (see [[Mischief in the Larder]]). At this point he can be named and becomes a [[Companions|companion]]. During missions at [[Ostagar]], he will wait with [[Duncan]] until Alistair and the Warden are sent to light the signal fire atop the [[Tower of Ishal (quest)|Tower of Ishal]] (at which point only the [[Tower of Ishal (quest)#Temporary_Companions|Circle Mage]] will join the party).
 +
[[Human Noble]]s obtain Dog during the origin story (see [[Mischief in the Larder]]). At this point he can be named and becomes a [[Companions|companion]]. During missions at [[Ostagar]], he will wait with [[Duncan]] until Alistair and The Warden are sent to light the signal fire atop the [[Tower of Ishal (quest)|Tower of Ishal]] (hence there will only be room for the [[Tower of Ishal (quest)#Temporary_Companions|Circle mage]] to join the party).
   
−
A Warden of any other [[Origins|origin]] who wishes to recruit Dog must complete [[The Mabari Hound]] (after arriving at Ostagar, before the [[After the Joining|war council]]). (The quest is still available to human nobles, but will '''not''' result in a second Dog!).
+
A Warden of any [[Origins|other origin]] who wishes to recruit '''Dog''' must complete a particular [[The Mabari Hound|task]] (after arriving at Ostagar but before the [[After the Joining|war council]]). (The quest is still available to human nobles, but will '''''not''''' result in a second Dog.) On this line, it is explained that Dog's previous owner was killed by the darkspawn and that the hound has been infected with the Taint. The kennel master is reluctant to put down "such a promising member of the breed" and asks the Warden to muzzle him, then fetch a red-and-white flower from the nearby [[Korcari Wilds]]; if this line of action is followed through, Dog will recover, but the kennel master suggests waiting until after the battle to bond him to the Warden.
⚫
If the quest is completed, Dog will be found in a [[World Map]] encounter ([[Deserted Farmland]]) while the Warden travels from [[Flemeth's Hut]] to [[Lothering]]. After a band of darkspawn is defeated, the new 'recruit' can be discussed briefly with Alistair and Morrigan, then named.
  
−
If a person is cruel enough to actually not want Dog in their party, they can refuse to let him join. This does result in a {{Approval|-10}} from Alistair, however.
  
   
  ⚫
The recovered Dog will be found in a [[World Map]] encounter ([[Deserted Farmland]]) between [[Flemeth's Hut]] and [[Lothering]]. After a band of darkspawn is defeated, the new 'recruit' can be discussed briefly with Alistair and Morrigan, then named. Even after saving Dog, if The Warden does not want the extra company they can refuse to let him join - though in that case, {{Approval|Alistair|-10}}.
−
In ''[[Witch Hunt]]'', Dog aids the Warden or [[the Warden-Commander]] in the quest to trail [[Morrigan]].
  
   
  +
Dog is permanently loyal to the Warden and the only companion who, if brought along, will never challenge the Warden's decisions or leave the Warden's side in a crisis of faith. His interactions with other companions are usually positive, especially with [[Sten]] and [[Alistair]]. Although intelligent and capable of acting out complex commands, he is still a dog at heart, and enjoys doing dog things such as playing, begging for food and fetching sticks.
⚫
In ''[[The Darkspawn Chronicles]]'' he is named "Barkspawn", and is one of Alistair's three companions fighting the Archdemon. An unlockable mabari npc named Barkspawn is also a companion in [[Dragon Age Legends]].
  
   
  +
In [[Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening]], Dog is conspicuously absent, and no explanation for his absence is ever offered.
⚫
Note that Dog is not an 'automatic' or 'required' companion unless the Warden is a [[Human Noble]] - the Kennel Master can be ignored; the hound can be killed instead of muzzled; the [[Wilds Flower]] can be ignored or never turned in.}}
  
  +
  +
''[[Witch Hunt]]'' ([[Downloadable content (Origins)|DLC]]) features a mabari as the first of three companions. If the Warden brought Dog along, he will be with the Warden. It is explained in the codex that after the [[The Battle of Denerim|Battle of Denerim]], he was sent to the Denerim kennels to help replenish the diminished number of mabari hounds; he mated with several females and fathered several litters of puppies, before returning to the Warden's side. When Morrigan is encountered at the end of Witch Hunt, Dog happily runs up to meet her, and in contrast to her begrudging tolerance of him in the main game, she appears happy to see him again.
  +
  +
If an Orlesian Warden is chosen, or Dog was never recruited, a hound will simply be gifted to him/her by [[Fergus Cousland|Teyrn Cousland]] of [[Highever]].
  +
  ⚫
In ''[[The Darkspawn Chronicles]]'' [[Downloadable content (Origins)|DLC]] the dog is named "Barkspawn", and is one of Alistair's three companions fighting the Archdemon.
  +
  +
An unlockable mabari NPC named Barkspawn is also a companion in ''[[Dragon Age Legends]]''.
  +
  ⚫
Note that Dog is only an 'automatic' companion if The Warden is a noble: the kennel master can be avoided or ignored, the hound can be killed instead of muzzled, the flower can be ignored or never turned in, and even a recovered Dog can be rejected on the road.}}
   
 
== Initial statistics ==
  
== Initial statistics ==
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{{See|[[Dog talents]] for a list of its talents}}
  
{{See|[[Dog talents]] for a list of its talents}}
   
  +
=== Attributes ===
−
'''Relative attribute weightings on auto-level''': strength 1.2, dexterity 1, willpower 1.5, magic 0, cunning 0, constitution 1.1.
  
  +
Relative attribute weightings on auto-level
  +
{| class="daotable" style="text-align: center;"
  +
| style="width: 16%;" | Strength
  +
| style="width: 16%;" | Dexterity
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| style="width: 16%;" | Willpower
  +
| style="width: 16%;" | Magic
  +
| style="width: 16%;" | Cunning
  +
| style="width: 16%;" | Constitution
  +
|-
  +
| 1.2
  +
| 1
  +
| 1.5
  +
| 0
  +
| 0
  +
| 1.1
  +
|}
  +
  +
=== Talents ===
  +
Dog has exclusive access to the [[Dog talents|War Dog talent]] tree. On the console editions of the game, it can also access [[warrior talents (Origins)|warrior talents]]. {{platforms|pc}}In ''Witch Hunt'', Dog can also learn [[Second Wind]], [[Peon's Plight]], [[Grievous Insult]] and [[Massacre]]. Dog starts with 2 [[Talents (Origins)|talent]] points, already assigned to {{:Fortitude|style=iconmini}} and {{:Growl|style=iconmini}}, and gains additional point every 3 levels: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18.
   
  +
== Tactics ==
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Dog has access to a series of [[talents (Origins)|talents]] unique to it. On the console editions of the game, it can also access [[warrior talents (Origins)|warrior talents]].
  
  ⚫
Dog can also sense 'stealthed' enemies (such as [[Genlock Rogue]]s) at fairly close range. The [[stealth]] is not counteracted, but there is 'in-game notification' in the form of an angry growl. In any case, only a mage has any significant response options (such as inscribing a [[Glyph of Repulsion]] to repel an initial melee attack).
−
{{platforms|pc}} In ''Witch Hunt'', Dog can also learn [[Second Wind]], [[Peon's Plight]], [[Grievous Insult]] and [[Massacre]] talents, like other warriors.
  
   
  +
Specific [[Tactics (Origins)|tactics]] can be assigned to Dog, similar to the Warden and companions. Dog starts with 2 'tactics slots' at level 1, and gains additional slot at levels: 3, 6, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30.
⚫
It can also sense Stealthed enemies such as [[Genlock Rogue]]s at fairly close range. The [[Stealth]] is not counteracted and there is no in-game notification except for an angry warning growl. In any case, only a mage has any significant response options (such as inscribing a [[Glyph of Repulsion]] to repel an initial melee attack).
  
   
 
== Equipment ==
  
== Equipment ==
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Both types can provide defensive or offensive bonuses.
  
Both types can provide defensive or offensive bonuses.
   
−
There are twelve warpaints and nine collars available in ''Dragon Age: Origins''. An additional collar and warpaint are available with the ''[[Return to Ostagar]]'' [[DLC]]. The [[Protective Cone]], available with the ''[[Feastday Gifts and Pranks]]'' DLC, can also be equipped as a collar.
 +
There are twelve warpaints and nine collars available in ''Dragon Age: Origins''. An additional collar and warpaint are available with ''Return to Ostagar''. The [[Protective Cone]], available with the ''[[Feastday Gifts and Pranks]]'' [[Downloadable content (Origins)|DLC]], can also be equipped as a collar.
   
 
== Finding items ==
  
== Finding items ==
−
Dog can be asked, "Do you see anything interesting?" almost everywhere outside of [[Party Camp|camp]] (though not while he is injured). In most areas he will have a random chance to return with either a minor item from the generic [[treasure]] list (such as [[Elfroot]]), or one of a limited number of unique items:
 +
Dog can be asked "Do you see anything interesting?" almost everywhere outside of [[Party Camp|camp]] (though not while he is injured). In most areas he will have a random chance to return with either a minor item from the generic [[treasure]] list (such as [[Elfroot (Origins)|Elfroot]]), or one of a limited number of unique items:
   
 
{{:Codex entry: A Very Chewed and Moist Book|style=iconmini}} (Codex: Books & Songs){{clrl}}
  
{{:Codex entry: A Very Chewed and Moist Book|style=iconmini}} (Codex: Books & Songs){{clrl}}
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There are also area-specific items he can dig up:
  
There are also area-specific items he can dig up:
 
{{:Codex entry: A Letter to Someone in Highever|style=iconmini}} - at [[Lake Calenhad Docks]]{{clrl}}
  
{{:Codex entry: A Letter to Someone in Highever|style=iconmini}} - at [[Lake Calenhad Docks]]{{clrl}}
−
{{:Duty (helmet)|style=iconmini}} - in the [[Deep Roads]] (all over, but definitely a 100% drop rate early in [[The Dead Trenches]]).{{clrl}}
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{{:Duty (helmet)|style=iconmini}} - in the [[Deep Roads]] (all over, but definitely a 100% drop rate early in [[The Dead Trenches]]).{{clrl}}
−
{{:Deathroot|style=iconmini}} - around the [[Brecilian Forest]] and [[Dalish Camp]]{{clrl}}
 +
{{:Deathroot (Origins)|style=iconmini}} - around the [[Brecilian Forest]] and [[Dalish Camp]]{{clrl}}
−
Assorted gemstones - at the [[The Dragon's Lair|Mountain Top]]
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Assorted gemstones - at the [[Mountain Top]]
   
 
=== Notes ===
  
=== Notes ===
−
* {{platforms|pc}}<sup>1.05</sup> {{platforms|ps3|xbox360}} There is apparently a bug where you get the message, "Dog has brought you an item!", but you will receive nothing in your inventory. If you get that message but no item icon on the lower left corner of the screen, you will receive no item.
 +
* {{platforms|pc}}<sup>1.05</sup> {{platforms|ps3|xbox360}} There is a bug where you get the message, "Dog has brought you an item!", but you will receive nothing in your inventory. If you get that message but no item icon on the lower left corner of the screen, you will receive no item.
−
* The [[Human Noble Origin|human noble]] unsurprisingly has the earliest access to found items, as any of the non-area-specific ones can be found within [[Castle Cousland]]. [[Piece of Wood]] is of particular interest, as it could be of use to the Circle Mage who joins the new Warden at the [[Tower of Ishal (quest)#Temporary_Companions|Tower of Ishal]].
 +
* The Human Noble has the earliest access to found items, as any of the non-area-specific ones can be found within [[Castle Cousland]]. [[Piece of Wood]] is of particular interest, as it could be of use to the Circle mage who joins the new Warden at the foot of the [[Tower of Ishal (quest)#Temporary_Companions|Tower of Ishal]].
−
* Somewhere near the Chantry in Denerim, Dog may run off on its own and come back with a young boy and his tail wagging. The Warden will then have to tell Dog not to keep the kid and return him to his parents (occurred during the pre-Landsmeet segment).
  
   
 
== Landmark explorations ==
  
== Landmark explorations ==
 
:''see [[Codex entry: Mabari Dominance]]''
  
:''see [[Codex entry: Mabari Dominance]]''
   
−
Throughout Ferelden are several objects labeled as '''Landmarks'''. These objects may have a sparkling aura, much like {{TextContainer|containers}}. When a landmark is selected without Dog in the party, it has no effect. If Dog is in the party, but is not the one to select the landmark, a message hints that he may be interested.
 +
Throughout Ferelden are several objects labeled '''Landmark''' (usually "Landmark tree" but there are a few exceptions. These objects may have a sparkling aura, much like {{TextContainer|containers}}. When a landmark is selected without Dog in the party, it has no effect. If Dog is in the party, but is not the one to select the landmark, a message hints at his interest.
   
 
When a landmark is 'marked' by Dog, '''Mabari Dominance''' is activated, providing him with bonuses of {{ColorPositiveStat|+2 strength}}, {{ColorPositiveStat|+2 willpower}}, and {{ColorPositiveStat|+2 constitution}}. The effect remains active while Dog is in the area, at any distance from the landmark. However, it is '''not''' applied inside buildings, even if they are within or adjacent to the landmark's location. (''e.g.'' inside Redcliffe Castle, The Spoiled Princess, Dane's Refuge, etc.)
  
When a landmark is 'marked' by Dog, '''Mabari Dominance''' is activated, providing him with bonuses of {{ColorPositiveStat|+2 strength}}, {{ColorPositiveStat|+2 willpower}}, and {{ColorPositiveStat|+2 constitution}}. The effect remains active while Dog is in the area, at any distance from the landmark. However, it is '''not''' applied inside buildings, even if they are within or adjacent to the landmark's location. (''e.g.'' inside Redcliffe Castle, The Spoiled Princess, Dane's Refuge, etc.)
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* [[Denerim Market]] - An overturned cart (during [[The Battle of Denerim]]).
  
* [[Denerim Market]] - An overturned cart (during [[The Battle of Denerim]]).
 
* [[East Brecilian Forest]] - The [[Mad Hermit]]'s tent.
  
* [[East Brecilian Forest]] - The [[Mad Hermit]]'s tent.
−
* [[Elven Alienage]] - The [[Codex entry: Vhenadahl: The Tree of the People|Vhenadahl]] (not during the City Elf origin).
 +
* [[Elven Alienage]] - The [[Codex entry: Vhenadahl: The Tree of the People|Vhenadahl]]
 
* [[Lake Calenhad Docks]] - An overturned boat on the shore.
  
* [[Lake Calenhad Docks]] - An overturned boat on the shore.
 
* [[Lothering]] - A tree on a small rise northeast of the windmill.
  
* [[Lothering]] - A tree on a small rise northeast of the windmill.
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{{SpoilerDAO|style=short|{{Note|The Dalish Camp landmark disappears if you side with the Werewolves during [[Nature of the Beast]].}}}}
  
{{SpoilerDAO|style=short|{{Note|The Dalish Camp landmark disappears if you side with the Werewolves during [[Nature of the Beast]].}}}}
   
−
''[[Return to Ostagar]]:''
 +
''Return to Ostagar:''
 
* [[Ostagar]] - A woodpile in the King's Camp.
  
* [[Ostagar]] - A woodpile in the King's Camp.
   
−
''[[Witch Hunt]]:''
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''Witch Hunt:''
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* [[Cadash Thaig]] - A stone at the base of a large statue, on a landing between two bridges near the thaig entrance.
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* [[Cadash Thaig]] - A stone at the base of a large statue, on a landing between two bridges near the thaig's entrance.
−
* [[Dragonbone Wastes]] - A skull south of the area's entrance.
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* [[Dragonbone Wastes]] - A skull south of the entrance.
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* [[Elven Ruins]] - A corpse near the ruins entrance.
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* [[Elven Ruins]] - A corpse near the entrance.
 
* [[Mage Tower - Basement|Mage Tower Basement]] - An artifact located near a notable statue.
  
* [[Mage Tower - Basement|Mage Tower Basement]] - An artifact located near a notable statue.
   
 
== [[Gifts (Origins)|Gifts]] ==
  
== [[Gifts (Origins)|Gifts]] ==
−
Naturally, Dog likes bones. However, his approval starts at the cap of +100 and cannot be lowered by any means. Gifting him the [[Stick]] from ''[[Feastday Gifts and Pranks|Feastday Gifts]]'' will increase his dexterity attribute by +6 (matching the maximum approval-based attribute increase that other companions can receive). The [[Protective Cone (gift)|Protective Cone]] from ''Feastday Pranks'' can be given to him as a prank.
 +
Naturally, Dog likes bones. However, his approval starts at the cap of +100 and ''cannot be lowered by any means''. Gifting him the [[Stick]] from ''Feastday Gifts'' will increase his dexterity attribute by +6 (matching the maximum approval-based attribute increase that other companions can receive). The [[Protective Cone (gift)|Protective Cone]] from ''Feastday Pranks'' can be given to him as a prank (and equipped for comic effect or 'style').
   
 
{{ItemGiftTable|
  
{{ItemGiftTable|
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* '''Morrigan''': "I know it was you rooting in my pack, mongrel."
  
* '''Morrigan''': "I know it was you rooting in my pack, mongrel."
 
* '''Dog''': ''(Innocent whine)''
  
* '''Dog''': ''(Innocent whine)''
−
* '''Morrigan''': "Who else? Alistair? He's a likely suspect, I admit, but no."
 +
* '''Morrigan''': "Who else? Alistair? He's a likely suspect, I admit, but no."
 
* '''Dog''': ''(Bows head shamefully)''
  
* '''Dog''': ''(Bows head shamefully)''
 
* '''Morrigan''': "I notice you avoided the hemlock."
  
* '''Morrigan''': "I notice you avoided the hemlock."
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== Trivia ==
  
== Trivia ==
 
[[File:Dog concept art.JPG|thumb|250px|Concept art]]
  
[[File:Dog concept art.JPG|thumb|250px|Concept art]]
  ⚫
* While spattered with blood, one can ask Dog: "Can you do something about this gory mess?" Dog will happily bark and clean the blood from The Warden - ''and is slightly healed for doing so.''
−
* A long-standing joke between the people who frequent the official ''Dragon Age: Origins'' forum is that Dog's "official" name is really Rabbit (which was used as an example name by one of the writers, [[Mary Kirby]]), and he is still occasionally referred to as such.
 +
* A long-standing joke among certain regulars of the official ''Origins'' forum is that Dog's "official" name is really Rabbit (which was used as an example name by [[Mary Kirby]]), and he is still occasionally referred to as such.
−
* Dog is referenced in a Penny Arcade [[Dragon Age: Origins (comic)|comic]] in which the character, speaking in an irreverently comical modern slang, [http://www.penny-arcade.com/comic/2009/11/06/ informs a NPC that he's named his dog Barkspawn]. In the DLC ''[[The Darkspawn Chronicles]]'', Alistair named him Barkspawn after saving him at Ostagar.
 +
* Dog is referenced in a Penny Arcade [[Dragon Age: Origins (comic)|comic]] in which the character, speaking in an comically irreverent modern slang, [http://www.penny-arcade.com/comic/2009/11/06/ informs a NPC that he's named his dog Barkspawn].
−
* If you speak to Dog while he has an injury, he will whine instead of his usual greetings, and you will be able to either comfort him, saying, "You've done well", or scold him for "being a baby". This has no real effect though, as you of course can't affect Dog's approval for better or worse.
 +
* If you speak to Dog while he has an [[injuries|injury]], he will whine instead of his usual greeting, and you will be able to either comfort him, saying, "You've done well", or scold him for "being a baby". Still, his Approval can't be altered for better or worse.
−
* If a mage casts [[Flaming Weapons]] or a similar spell on the party's weapons, Dog will be given the visual effect on his entire body.
 +
* Under the influence of [[Flaming Weapons]] or a similar spell, Dog will be given the visual effect on his entire body.
⚫
* If you talk to Dog whilst covered in blood, you can ask, "Can you do something about this gory mess?", to which Dog will happily bark and clean the blood from your character. Dog receives health for doing so.
  
−
* Unlike most other characters, whose movement speed slows when entering combat, Dog speeds up, moving at a slightly increased rate.
 +
* While most characters suffer decreased movement speed when in combat, Dog speeds up slightly.
  +
−
* As of the ''Witch Hunt'' DLC, it's said in his [[Codex entry: The Mabari Hound|newly edited codex]] that Dog has sired many puppies.
  
  +
== Gallery ==
  +
<gallery widths=199 captionalign="center">
  +
Dog_Blurb.png|Dog blurb from ''[[Dragon Age: Origins]]''<ref> Original page unavailable. Image found at http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2009/10/04/dragon-age-origins-characters-list.htm</ref>
  +
</gallery>
   
 
== See also ==
  
== See also ==
 
{{:Codex entry: Dog|style=iconmini}}{{clrl}}
  
{{:Codex entry: Dog|style=iconmini}}{{clrl}}
 
{{:Codex entry: The Mabari Hound|style=iconmini}}{{clrl}}
  
{{:Codex entry: The Mabari Hound|style=iconmini}}{{clrl}}
  +
  +
== References ==
  +
<references/>
   
 
{{Companions (Origins)}}
  
{{Companions (Origins)}}
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[[Category:Characters]]
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[[Category:Creatures]]
−
[[Category:Dragon Age: Origins characters]]
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[[Category:Dragon Age: Origins creatures]]
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[[Category:Companions]]
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[[Category:Witch Hunt creatures]]
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[[Category:Animals]]

Revision as of 16:31, 23 April 2014

For the dog in Dragon Age II, see Dog (Dragon Age II).

“Woof!”


"Dog" is the default name of a male mabari war hound, one potential (and unquestionably faithful) companion to the Warden. He is a full party member, counting as a warrior with a unique talent tree and exclusive equipment. He also has party banter, occasional moments of "dialogue", a sort of loot-scrounging function, and a "landmark" interactive feature.

Background

Dogs are an essential part of Ferelden culture, and no dog is more prized than a mabari. The breed is as old as myth, said to have been bred from the wolves who served the legendary hero Dane.

Involvement

Dog is obtained in one of two ways in Origins; a third, "last chance" opportunity is added with the Return to Ostagar DLC.

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Origins.

Human Nobles obtain Dog during the origin story (see Mischief in the Larder). At this point he can be named and becomes a companion. During missions at Ostagar, he will wait with Duncan until Alistair and The Warden are sent to light the signal fire atop the Tower of Ishal (hence there will only be room for the Circle mage to join the party).

A Warden of any other origin who wishes to recruit Dog must complete a particular task (after arriving at Ostagar but before the war council). (The quest is still available to human nobles, but will not result in a second Dog.) On this line, it is explained that Dog's previous owner was killed by the darkspawn and that the hound has been infected with the Taint. The kennel master is reluctant to put down "such a promising member of the breed" and asks the Warden to muzzle him, then fetch a red-and-white flower from the nearby Korcari Wilds; if this line of action is followed through, Dog will recover, but the kennel master suggests waiting until after the battle to bond him to the Warden.

The recovered Dog will be found in a World Map encounter (Deserted Farmland) between Flemeth's Hut and Lothering. After a band of darkspawn is defeated, the new 'recruit' can be discussed briefly with Alistair and Morrigan, then named. Even after saving Dog, if The Warden does not want the extra company they can refuse to let him join - though in that case, Ico DisAppr Heart Alistair disapproves (-10).

Dog is permanently loyal to the Warden and the only companion who, if brought along, will never challenge the Warden's decisions or leave the Warden's side in a crisis of faith. His interactions with other companions are usually positive, especially with Sten and Alistair. Although intelligent and capable of acting out complex commands, he is still a dog at heart, and enjoys doing dog things such as playing, begging for food and fetching sticks.

In Dragon Age: Origins - Awakening, Dog is conspicuously absent, and no explanation for his absence is ever offered.

Witch Hunt (DLC) features a mabari as the first of three companions. If the Warden brought Dog along, he will be with the Warden. It is explained in the codex that after the Battle of Denerim, he was sent to the Denerim kennels to help replenish the diminished number of mabari hounds; he mated with several females and fathered several litters of puppies, before returning to the Warden's side. When Morrigan is encountered at the end of Witch Hunt, Dog happily runs up to meet her, and in contrast to her begrudging tolerance of him in the main game, she appears happy to see him again.

If an Orlesian Warden is chosen, or Dog was never recruited, a hound will simply be gifted to him/her by Teyrn Cousland of Highever.

In The Darkspawn Chronicles DLC the dog is named "Barkspawn", and is one of Alistair's three companions fighting the Archdemon.

An unlockable mabari NPC named Barkspawn is also a companion in Dragon Age Legends.

Note that Dog is only an 'automatic' companion if The Warden is a noble: the kennel master can be avoided or ignored, the hound can be killed instead of muzzled, the flower can be ignored or never turned in, and even a recovered Dog can be rejected on the road.


Initial statistics

Dog Talents

Dog's talent tree

See Dog talents for a list of its talents.

Attributes

Relative attribute weightings on auto-level

Strength Dexterity Willpower Magic Cunning Constitution
1.2 1 1.5 0 0 1.1

Talents

Dog has exclusive access to the War Dog talent tree. On the console editions of the game, it can also access warrior talents. pcpcIn Witch Hunt, Dog can also learn Second Wind, Peon's Plight, Grievous Insult and Massacre. Dog starts with 2 talent points, already assigned to Fortitude Fortitude and Growl Growl, and gains additional point every 3 levels: 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18.

Tactics

Dog can also sense 'stealthed' enemies (such as Genlock Rogues) at fairly close range. The stealth is not counteracted, but there is 'in-game notification' in the form of an angry growl. In any case, only a mage has any significant response options (such as inscribing a Glyph of Repulsion to repel an initial melee attack).

Specific tactics can be assigned to Dog, similar to the Warden and companions. Dog starts with 2 'tactics slots' at level 1, and gains additional slot at levels: 3, 6, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30.

Equipment

DAO Dog - Kaddis and Warpaint comparison

Kaddis and warpaint designs

Dog has two slots for equipment, taking the place of conventional weapons or armor:

Both types can provide defensive or offensive bonuses.

There are twelve warpaints and nine collars available in Dragon Age: Origins. An additional collar and warpaint are available with Return to Ostagar. The Protective Cone, available with the Feastday Gifts and Pranks DLC, can also be equipped as a collar.

Finding items

Dog can be asked "Do you see anything interesting?" almost everywhere outside of camp (though not while he is injured). In most areas he will have a random chance to return with either a minor item from the generic treasure list (such as Elfroot), or one of a limited number of unique items:

Codex entry: A Very Chewed and Moist Book Codex entry: A Very Chewed and Moist Book (Codex: Books & Songs)

Dirty Pair of Pantaloons Dirty Pair of Pantaloons, gift

Found Cake Found Cake, gift

Garbolg's Backcountry Reserve Garbolg's Backcountry Reserve, gift

Piece of Wood Piece of Wood

Tangled Ball of Yarn Tangled Ball of Yarn, gift

There are also area-specific items he can dig up:

Codex entry: A Letter to Someone in Highever Codex entry: A Letter to Someone in Highever - at Lake Calenhad Docks

Duty Duty - in the Deep Roads (all over, but definitely a 100% drop rate early in The Dead Trenches).

Deathroot Deathroot - around the Brecilian Forest and Dalish Camp

Assorted gemstones - at the Mountain Top

Notes

  • pcpc1.05 ps3ps3xbox360xbox360 There is a bug where you get the message, "Dog has brought you an item!", but you will receive nothing in your inventory. If you get that message but no item icon on the lower left corner of the screen, you will receive no item.
  • The Human Noble has the earliest access to found items, as any of the non-area-specific ones can be found within Castle Cousland. Piece of Wood is of particular interest, as it could be of use to the Circle mage who joins the new Warden at the foot of the Tower of Ishal.

Landmark explorations

see Codex entry: Mabari Dominance

Throughout Ferelden are several objects labeled Landmark (usually "Landmark tree" but there are a few exceptions. These objects may have a sparkling aura, much like containers. When a landmark is selected without Dog in the party, it has no effect. If Dog is in the party, but is not the one to select the landmark, a message hints at his interest.

When a landmark is 'marked' by Dog, Mabari Dominance is activated, providing him with bonuses of +2 strength, +2 willpower, and +2 constitution. The effect remains active while Dog is in the area, at any distance from the landmark. However, it is not applied inside buildings, even if they are within or adjacent to the landmark's location. (e.g. inside Redcliffe Castle, The Spoiled Princess, Dane's Refuge, etc.)

After Dog leaves an area where a landmark has been activated, Mabari Dominance should automatically reactivate when he returns to that location.

Landmarks

Dragon Age: Origins:

This section contains spoilers for:
Dragon Age: Origins.

Note: The Dalish Camp landmark disappears if you side with the Werewolves during Nature of the Beast.


Return to Ostagar:

  • Ostagar - A woodpile in the King's Camp.

Witch Hunt:

Gifts

Naturally, Dog likes bones. However, his approval starts at the cap of +100 and cannot be lowered by any means. Gifting him the Stick from Feastday Gifts will increase his dexterity attribute by +6 (matching the maximum approval-based attribute increase that other companions can receive). The Protective Cone from Feastday Pranks can be given to him as a prank (and equipped for comic effect or 'style').


Name Notes Description
Beef Bone
Beef Bone
Location: Ostagar and Circle Tower
A shoulder of beef, with bone attached.
Found Cake
Found Cake
Found by Dog
A soggy cake-like object that has probably seen better days. Flecks of dog spittle still cling to it.
Lamb Bone
Lamb Bone
The bone from a leg of roast lamb.
Large Bone
Large Bone
Located: Haven and Soldier's Peak
This large bone is of indeterminate origin. It still looks tasty.
Ox Bone
Ox Bone
This ox bone still has some tendon attached to it.
Tangled Ball of Yarn
Tangled Ball of Yarn
Found by Dog
A tangled ball of grey-brown woolen yarn. It is still slimy from having been in the mabari's mouth.
Veal Bone
Veal Bone
A juicy veal bone.
Stick
Stick
This sturdy stick is well-weighted for throwing.

Quotes

Main article: Dog (Origins)/Dialogue
  • Sten: (Snarls.)
  • Dog: (Growls angrily.)
  • Sten: (Lets out a terrifying roar.)
  • Dog: (Barks angrily and lunges at Sten.)
  • Sten: "You are a true warrior, and worthy of respect."
  • Dog: (Barks excitedly.)
───────
  • Morrigan: "Does this mean we are going to have this mangy beast follow us around? Wonderful."
  • Alistair: (Adoringly) "He's not mangy!"
───────
  • Morrigan: "I know it was you rooting in my pack, mongrel."
  • Dog: (Innocent whine)
  • Morrigan: "Who else? Alistair? He's a likely suspect, I admit, but no."
  • Dog: (Bows head shamefully)
  • Morrigan: "I notice you avoided the hemlock."
  • Dog: (Happy bark!)
  • Morrigan: "Yes, yes, very clever. Next time I will disguise it more carefully."
  • Dog: (Sad eyes)
  • Morrigan: "Do not even try it! I would not give you a biscuit had I one."
  • Dog: (Sadder eyes)
  • Morrigan: "Oh... very well. But tell no one!"
───────
  • Shale: I am watching you, dog. Do you know how many of your kind urinated on me in that village? And all I could do is stand there and watch, helpless. If I see one of those legs of yours lift so much as an inch in my direction -- pow!
  • Dog: (Confused whine!)
  • Shale: I am glad we have this understanding. At least your kind can be reasoned with... unlike those damned feathered fiends!
───────

(If Dog is chosen as the Warden's champion to duel Loghain)

  • Loghain: "Will you face me yourself, or have you a champion?"
  • Warden: "My mabari will be my champion."
  • Dog: (Happy bark!)
  • Arl Eamon: "Ah, Warden... No. I'm afraid we can't leave the fate of all Ferelden up to your dog. Anyone with a leftover ham bone could buy his allegiance. Choose someone else."
───────
  • Finn: Dog! What is that in which a tree is covered?"
  • Dog: (Bark!)
  • Ariane: (Sigh)

Trivia

Dog concept art

Concept art

  • While spattered with blood, one can ask Dog: "Can you do something about this gory mess?" Dog will happily bark and clean the blood from The Warden - and is slightly healed for doing so.
  • A long-standing joke among certain regulars of the official Origins forum is that Dog's "official" name is really Rabbit (which was used as an example name by Mary Kirby), and he is still occasionally referred to as such.
  • Dog is referenced in a Penny Arcade comic in which the character, speaking in an comically irreverent modern slang, informs a NPC that he's named his dog Barkspawn.
  • If you speak to Dog while he has an injury, he will whine instead of his usual greeting, and you will be able to either comfort him, saying, "You've done well", or scold him for "being a baby". Still, his Approval can't be altered for better or worse.
  • Under the influence of Flaming Weapons or a similar spell, Dog will be given the visual effect on his entire body.
  • While most characters suffer decreased movement speed when in combat, Dog speeds up slightly.

Gallery

See also

Codex entry: Dog Codex entry: Dog

Codex entry: The Mabari Hound Codex entry: The Mabari Hound

References

  1. ↑ Original page unavailable. Image found at http://www.videogamesblogger.com/2009/10/04/dragon-age-origins-characters-list.htm
v • d • e
Companions in Dragon Age: Origins
Origins
Alistair · Dog · Leliana · Morrigan · Oghren · Secret · Shale · Sten · Wynne · Zevran Arainai
Awakening
A Tale of Orzammar
Leliana's Song
The Darkspawn Chronicles
The Golems of Amgarrak
Witch Hunt
Ariane · Finn · Dog
See also
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