No-one is entirely sure who is responsible for creating these creatures, or exactly what to do with them. In form, they resemble the body shape of a hunting spider, but with the bodily features and behaviour of a dog. They hunt small vermin like mice (or sometimes slightly larger creatures, depending on what is available), and are affectionate, if somewhat horrifying, pets. They make soft whimper noises, but rarely bark.
Those who can override their usual arachnoid startle-reflex and tolerate such a creature often gain a faithful and loyal friend. However, they elicit an almost supernatural fear and revulsion from most humanoids, so they are usually kept indoors and away from unfamiliar eyes. Statistics: Spiderpuppies have the same statistics as a dog, with slightly increased (+10ft.) land speed and an additional +1d4 poison damage from their venomous bite. Humanoids usually react unfavourably to them, despite their four dark, glistening puppy-dog eyes. How you can use Spiderpuppies in your game: - A human noble who has traveled far away might have acquired such a creature as a pet, and keep it within a fenced yard in their house. After a storm damages the fence and their exotic pet escapes, they quickly hire adventurers to locate and return little Ralphie to them before the villagers hunt it down with torches and pitchforks. - A colony of Spiderpuppies have taken up residence in the hills near a town. Only a few hunters have glimpsed them, and run in terror at their appearance. They have hired adventurers to "clear out the caves of some vicious giant spiders". However, the cruel game hunters who are interested in their pelts will be dangerous if opposed. - A Player Character might want to keep such a beast, but will face challenges in keeping one. They may have to live far from town and keep it away from prying eyes. - Oddly, Drow find these creatures to be horrifying abominations, and cannot bear their presence even long enough to slay one. Also posted on Game Masters Stash on 6 March 2020. Comments are closed.
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