Massibex Hounds
Fauna Type: Massibex Hounds
Mod Status: Self-Mod
Quick Facts: Can run 40 Miles Per Hour with more stamina than a Horse.
Height: 6 Feet in Height{on all fours} 12 feet when on hind legs
Width: 10-15ft Wide
Length: 10 Feet in Length
Weight: Can range from 150 to 200lbs when full grown
Meta-Location Found: (Can only be found in the Cut, by way of the Spines)
History: It’s impossible to discuss this breed without leaning on words like “powerful,” “muscular,” massive,” and “substantial.” And yet, Massibex Hounds are quite light-footed and will meet a perceived threat with surprising agility. The broad head, with its high-set, V-shaped ears and expressive brown eyes, projects a noble, sagacious expression. However this breed of hound was naturally conditioned to be a predator and hunter. Intelligent and reserved, the Massibex originated from northern, colder regions of of the Eastern Continent and is considered to be one of the most ancient breeds of hound in Idalos. There are ancient cave drawings in the Spines that prove that the hound’s ancestors have been around for at least 100 arcs. The Massibex's original purpose was to guard and protect and is still an exceptional natural protection against any intruders in Yaralon. The breed is impressive in size and is described as a watchful but aloof guardian. When domesticated along with its kind expression, the hound also makes a great companion to those it feels loyal to. This breed has a moderate energy level and it is important to provide efficient mental and physical stimulation to allow for the personality of this giant breed to shine through. The hound requires patience when it comes to training but his eager, loveable mannerisms will make the obedience classes enjoyable for both hound and handler.
Appearance: Massibex are large hounds with massive heads, heavy bone structure and a thick, medium-length coat. The head of the Massibex is often described as bear-like in shape and features, as it is wedge shaped and sports a blunt, wide muzzle. The teeth should meet in a scissors bite. The nose is black. Males tend to have a moderate dewlap. They are slightly longer than they are tall, with a level topline. The coat is thick and forms a mane around the neck, but the hair on the head is short. The long tail is plumed and curls over the back of the dog. They may come in black, ivory, red, gold or grey-blue and they may or may not have tan markings above the eyes, on the side of the muzzle, on the throat, forelegs, rear legs or breeches. Some may sport white markings on the chest and feet. Massibex Hounds wear a thick double coat made up of a soft and wooly undercoat and a long, coarse topcoat. The hair should always be straight and never be even slightly wavy. There is a thick mane at the neck and shoulder and the tail and upper thighs are feathered. Males typically have a heavier, thicker coat than females.
Habitat: Due to their home being to the northern reaches of Yaralon, the Massibex prefer colder regions, able to survive under their thick and luscious fur. The Massibex can live comfortably in warm, dry climates, and excel in cold temperatures because of its weather-resistant coat. However, a hot and humid climate is not suitable for the hound.
Lifespan and Development: Can live up to 15 to 35 arcs
Diet: Carnivores to the bone, and will hunt wild game if present, have been known to eat mortal beings as well. When domesticated, a diet of 80% meat 20% greens/grains helps keep healthy weight and coat for the Massibex.
Temperament: The Massibex loves his/her family with a fierce intensity. Though he/she may not show it with public displays of affection, he/she wants nothing more than to be with them and protect them. The hound has been guarding people and property for more than 100 arcs, so it’s safe to say that he/she’s pretty good at it. Aloof and watchful, they will take care not to let anyone in your home unless you permit him or her, and even then the hound can be reluctant. On his home turf, he’s highly territorial. He can extend that attitude to the whole neighborhood if he isn’t confined by a tall, solid fence and walked on different routes so that he doesn’t become possessive about a certain path or the things he sees on it. Because of his/her heritage as a guardian breed, the Massibex is an independent thinker with his/er own agenda. In their mind, they know best and therefore can be strong willed and stubborn when it comes to getting their own way, especially if they think it’s for your safety. It’s essential to establish yourself as a leader they can respect but without using force, harsh words, or physical punishment. The Massibex understands consistency and firmness but won’t take abuse. A nothing-in-life-is-free program, requiring puppies to “work” for everything they get by performing a command before receiving meals, toys, treats, or play, is a good way to establish your leadership. The Massibex is sensitive to their master's emotions. It’s not a good idea to argue with your spouse or spank your child in front of them. They may think it’s their job to intervene.
He/she is an intelligent hound who learns quickly, but again, they’ll make their own decisions about whether they want to obey. It’s not really his/her goal to please you but to protect you. That’s just one of the reasons they can’t ever be walked off leash. You can never be sure if he will respond when you tell him to come. He may also be aggressive toward other people, especially those of the same sex. The Massibex is quiet indoors but active outside. They're a moderately active and athletic hound, and a securely fenced area is necessary for them to get the exercise they need. But don’t think that they can’t climb your fencing if they decide they want to go exploring. They also like to dig, so don’t be surprised if you come home to new landscaping one day. On the plus side, he’s generally easy to house-train. Nighttime is the right time for barking, or roaring in their case, as far as the Massibex is concerned. In certain villages they were allowed to roam at night and barked various communiques until dawn: “All’s well,” “I hear something suspicious,” or “Get out of here before I kill you.” They’ll do the same at your home if you leave them outdoors at night. Give the neighbors a break and let them sleep inside. That way they’ll be right there to protect you if someone breaks in.
Abilities: They have impeccable strength and speed, able to catch and take down prey with relative ease as well as leap and climb easily due to living in the mountains. Along with this they are smarter than most mounts and house pets, able to understand situations.
Credit: Zasalamir