Canin, Miniature (3.5e Race)

Author: Halloweenman33 (talk) Date Created: 2/21/17 Status: Mostly finished, but may require additional tweaks based on feedback Editing: Clarity edits only please

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Canin, Miniature

Canin look like an anthropromorphic version of a dog. The exact appearance will vary depending on what breed they are.

Personality

Canin are generally friendly. They are extremely loyal to their friends, often to a fault. Miniature Canin are not as abrasive as their smaller cousins. While they can be scrappers, they are not as eager to fight and are significantly more cordial to others. When creating a Canin character, you can stick with the basic race or choose a breed and apply it like a mini template, changing a few abilities and other aspects. I left the names of the breeds the same as they really are (mostly for simplicity), so name changes may be required. Just use whatever name would be the best fit for your setting

Basenji (qualifies for Canin Sighthound Template if desired): Basenjis are an ancient breed, predating the existence of the vast majority of other Canin breeds by several thousand years. They are highly intelligent, but incredibly stubborn and standoffish. They love to climb and are quite good and are also excellent escape artists. They take great pride in their appearance and are very cat-like in their grooming habits. They are almost obsessed with their own personal hygiene, cleaning themselves at least a couple of times a day. They are amazingly courageous and will defend their friends, family and homes with everything they’ve got if challenged.

Beagle (qualifies for Canin Scent Hound Template if desired): Beagles are friendly, personable, and intelligent, but are known for being stubbornly determined and single-minded. They can be standoffish with strangers at first, but warm up very quickly and make friends easily. They are also considered by many to be cute.

Bichon Frisé: Bichon Frises are intelligent, cunning, and friendly little Canin. They are incredibly cheerful and love being the center of attention. They love to learn. Bichons are emotional and sensitive. They love the company of humanoids and get so attached to their companions that they dislike being separated from them for long periods of time. Most are fine with this since Bichons are incredibly charming and most humanoids find them exceptionally cute. While they love adventuring, especially with their friends who they follow everywhere, Bichons dislike violence and try to avoid getting directly involved in fights if possible.

Boston Terrier: Boston Terriers are friendly, intelligent, and sociable. They have a sense of humor comparable to that of gnomes and enjoy a good joke or prank, resulting in them being considered the clowns of the Canin world. They describe themselves as “a lover, not a fighter” and for the most part this holds true. They can be slightly territorial though and males do sometimes tend to posture when they feel that their territory is being invaded. They are also stubborn and can be a bit hyperactive, which can sometimes get them in trouble with their companions or the law, although they can generally get out of trouble with a sweet-natured look of their huge, round eyes. Boston Terriers are sturdy and muscular, especially compared to other Miniature Breeds. Their flat faces do make it difficult for them to properly cool the air the breathe in and can cause breathing problems that lead to other health issues.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is an exceptionally friendly Canin Breed and many consider them to be incredibly cute. They consider everyone they meet to be their friend, nobody is a stranger. They are quite sensitive and any mean treatment will cause them to sulk or go hide. Cavaliers love humanoids and will stick close by the sides of any and all humanoid companions, following them wherever they go. Because many people find them so charming, they find it easy to get whatever they want, especially food.

Cocker Spaniel: Cocker Spaniels are amenable, gentle, and cheerful. They can be a bit nervous, but are often quite talkative and chatty. They do have a small problem where they have a tendency to urinate when they get excited, which can be a bit off putting to some. They are hunters at heart and love to chase after birds.

Dachshund (qualifies for the Canin Scent Hound Template if desired): Dachshunds are extremely loyal to their friends, but are wary of strangers and take time to warm up to others. They are stubborn and fearless, not afraid to take on larger foes. They are highly intelligent, but their short, stubby legs and long body slow their reflexes. This body structure does make them more maneuverable when digging through tunnels.

Lhasa Apso: Lhasa Apsos are alert and intelligent creatures. They are very loyal to their close friends and family, but are very wary of strangers. This wariness comes naturally to them, as they often make a living as guards/sentinels, specifically for monasteries located in mountainous regions. This also makes them quite tolerant of cold weather. Their natural protectiveness also extends to their friends and family. They take this job very seriously and are fierce defenders. They are independent and stubborn. It is very difficult to get them to do something that they don’t want to do and they will dig their heels into the ground and “put on the brakes” refusing to move if their companions try to coerce them into going somewhere that they don’t want to go. They do have a fun-loving, playful, and mischievous streak though and are quite happy creatures.

Miniature Schnauzer: Miniature Schnauzers are alert, spirited, playful, friendly, and intelligent. They are often aloof with strangers until their friends greet and welcome the guest, at which point they are very friendly to the new arrival. Miniature Schnauzers are hunters and have a high prey drive, seeking out small animals to hunt. They are extroverted creatures who love being the center of attention and greatly enjoy spending time with their humanoid friends. They don’t seem to have an idea of just how small they are and have a tendency to trash talk to larger creatures without any thought of the consequences, which can get them in trouble.

Parson Russell Terrier: Parson Russell Terriers are feisty, energetic, cheerful, fearless, and intelligent. They are single minded, tenacious, and courageous when it comes to work and exuberant, playful, and affectionate at home. They love humanoids, get along nicely with Canin, and greatly enjoy the company of horses. They are excellent climbers and astonishing jumpers, able to make a standing vertical jump roughly five times their own height. They are hunters by nature and nave a strong prey drive, even stronger than that of other terriers, causing them to hunt small animals even if they are someone’s pet.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi: Pembroke Welsh Corgis are happy, loving, and intelligent creatures, but do have a stubborn streak. They are extraordinarily friendly, highly energetic, and love being the center of attention. They can be suspicious of strangers and are very vocal if they feel that someone or something is threatening their home and family. They are very protective of those they care about. Pembrokes love to eat and the quickest way to befriend one is to give them food. They are herders by nature and love to chase just about anything that moves. They are fun loving creatures and love to dance. Pembrokes are quite charming and many people find them very cute.

Poodle (Miniature): Poodles are highly intelligent, loyal, and mischievous. Despite their regal appearance, Poodles have a goofy streak and love to play, being up for a game of any kind. They are loyal and affectionate with friends and family, but they take a while to warm up to new people. Poodles as a whole are the second smartest of all the Canin (second only to the Border Collie). They are amazingly clever, learn fast, and have great memories. Despite this, Toy Poodles still sometimes carry the same chip on their shoulder as other Toy Breeds.

Scottish Terrier: Scottish Terriers are intelligent, territorial, alert, quick moving, and feisty. They are also independent, self-assured, playful, courageous, and possess such endless determination that they have earned the nickname of the “Diehard”. They are somewhat aloof creatures and are known for being stubborn. Scotties are not known for being jokers, but they possess such a dignified seriousness that many people find it hilarious. They are very loyal to their friends and family, but tend to be reserved around strangers. They are not particularly chatty and mostly tend to speak up when necessary. When they do speak up, they have a powerful voice that can easily scare the wits out of an unsuspecting opponent. Scotties are fearless and can be aggressive toward other Canin. They generally won’t start fights, but if another Canin provokes him, he will fight to the very end. They enjoy hunting and especially enjoy digging into underground dens to fight badgers and small vermin.

Shetland Sheepdog: The Shetland Sheepdog is vocal, athletic, excitable, energetic, and loves to work hard. They are highly intelligent, considered to be the 6th smartest of all the breeds. Shelties are very affectionate with their friends and family, but tend to be reserved or even shy around strangers. They are very protective and quick to sound the alarm if the sense that something is amiss in their territory. They are often shepherds by trade and have a strong herding instinct. If there are no livestock around, they have sometimes been seen trying to herd squirrels, rabbits, and even humanoids.

Shiba Inu: Shiba Inus are independent, alert, agile, intelligent, strong willed and vocal. They are known for their fiery, bold personalities. They originate from a mountainous region and do very well in such terrain. Shiba Inus are very quick and move nimbly and effortlessly and are natural escape artists. They are stubborn, have a superiority complex, and tend to be aggressive toward other Canin. They do not like to share and are very possessive and tend to guard, sometimes aggressively, their territory and belongings with a jealous eye. They are loyal and devoted to their friends and family, but are generally suspicious of strangers. They are great hunters and have a strong prey drive. If provoked or upset, they are known for producing a loud, high pitch scream, commonly referred to as the “Shiba Scream”.

West Highland White Terrier: West Highland White Terriers are independent, assured, self-confident, and highly social. They are very friendly and jolly creatures, loyal to their friends and family, but highly energetic and always on the move. They are inquisitive and love to investigate anything that sparks their interest. They are also quite stubborn and getting one to do something it doesn’t want to is difficult. They love to dig and have a high prey drive, often going after small rodents in their burrows. They are generally friendly to other Canin and rarely ever start fights, but won’t walk away from one if someone else starts it.

Whippet: Whippets are friendly, quiet, and gentle creatures. They are one of the fastest of the Canin, even rivaling the Greyhound in speed. They are the fastest at accelerating and can accidentally leave their companions in the dust easily. Whippets tend to have two speeds: Full Run and Zero. When indoors, they are known couch potatoes, often sleeping. They are touch sensitive, having a tendency to jump or overreact when touched unexpectedly. They get along very well with humanoids and other Canin, but have a strong prey drive and often chase small animals, often pursuing them for several miles. Whippets automatically apply the Canin Sighthound Template at character creation

Physical Description

Canin can best be described as dogmen. They have the body of a human, but the head of a dog and are covered in fur from head to toe. Describing an average canin is difficult due to the wide variety of them. Canin come in many “breeds” (as many as dogs do in fact) and each breed can vary greatly in size. They can be as smaller than a gnome or larger than a troll and everywhere in between. Canin place great value in honesty, integrity, and loyalty. Like dogs, Canin are fiercely loyal to their friends. Some are loyal to a fault. However, if one betrays or severely violates a Canin’s moral code, it is possible to lose their loyalty, but only if the act was severe enough to destroy the friendship (something that Canin do not take well at all). Evil Canin are extremely rare. The few that exist (that aren’t undead or, in one extremely rare and tragically ironic case, a werewolf) are that way because of tragic circumstances in their past, usually multiple instances of abuse or betrayal by those they trusted. Most Canin are hard working and quite happy to do physically demanding jobs, although some of the larger breeds are known to be a bit lazy. Canin seem to have a readiness to fight inversely related to size. The smaller the Canin, the more feisty and ready for a fight they seem to be (although most will end up hiding behind a larger friend when the one they challenge seems to accept). Smaller breeds of Canin also seem to have more dominant personalities. It is not uncommon to see a group of troll sized Canin taking orders from a gnome sized one. Their senses of hearing and smell are extraordinary, making them excellent trackers and leading more than a few to pursue the career of a woodsman or a bounty hunter. There are too many breeds of Canin to stat each one individually, but they can be easily divided into five categories: Toy, Miniature, Standard, Large, and Giant. While they are all the same species, some of the racial features may differ between the different categories. Most will be the same, but attributes will differ. The Miniature Canin are the next size up from the Toys. While they can be scrappers, they are not as eager to start a fight as their smaller cousins. Breeds among the Miniature Canin include the Miniature Poodle, Miniature Schnauzer, Dachshund, King Charles Cavalier Spaniel, Beagle, Cocker Spaniel, and any other breeds in that size range. When creating a Miniature Canin character, you can either choose a breed for your character to be at character creation or stick with the basic race as is and call yourself a mutt. Some breeds may have additional abilities that are added onto the basic race.

Relations

Canin get along with most of the other races. They are especially friendly with humans. Canin are a bit leery of half-orcs, but are more open minded than other races and are willing to give individuals a chance, often warming up to them. They dislike the drow, orcs, and other monstrous evil races for their cruel ways, but are sometimes willing to give individuals a chance to prove themselves.

Alignment

Usually Neutral Good

Lands

Similar to humans, canin are all over the place.

Religion

Canin are generally not particularly religious, but they tend to prefer to worship nature deities

Language

Any

Names

Their names are as varied as those of humans and normal dogs

Racial Traits

• +2 Dexterity, +2 Intelligence, -2 Strength, -2 Wisdom: Miniature Canin are quick, although not as quick as the toys. They are, however smarter and while they are slightly stronger than the toys, they share the same lack of wisdom.
• Humanoid (Anthro) 
• Small: As a Small creature, a canin, miniature gains a +1 size bonus to Armor Class, a +1 size bonus on attack rolls, a –4 size penalty on special attack (bull rushes, grapples, overruns, and trips) checks, and a +4 size bonus on Hide checks, but it uses smaller weapons than humans use, and its lifting and carrying limits are three-quarters of those of a Medium character.
• Canin, Miniature base land speed is 20 feet.  
• +2 Racial Bonus on Spot checks 
• +4 Racial Bonus on Listen checks 
• +4 Racial Bonus on Survival checks when tracking by scent 
• Scent 
• Natural Attack (Ex): Bite dealing 1d4+1.5x Strength Modifier Damage 
• Chocolate Vulnerability (Ex): Chocolate Vulnerability: Chocolate is bad for Canin. If ingested, it is treated as a Poison, specifically Black Adder Venom with a DC of 20 
• Quadrupedal Tracking (Ex): While Canin are bipeds, when Tracking by Scent, they can, as a move action that provokes an attack of opportunity, crouch down and use their hands to walk on all fours so that they can keep their noses as close to the ground (and the scent they are following) as possible. While on all fours, their Base Speed increases by 10 and they gain a +2 Circumstance Bonus on Survival checks as long as they are tracking by scent. However, they cannot hold any weapons while in this position and are considered one size category smaller for the purposes of vertical reach. They also cannot go into this position while wearing Medium or Heavy Armor, although Light Armor is generally flexible enough to allow it. Canin can remain in this position for a number of minutes equal to their HD+Con Modifier. After which, they must return to a standing position, which they can do as a move action, for 20-Con Modifier Minutes. 
• Intellectual Sensory (Ex): Canin use their Intelligence Modifier on Spot, Listen, and Survival checks instead their Wisdom Modifier. 
• Smart Wits (Ex): Canin use their Intelligence Modifier instead of their Wisdom Modifier on Will Saves 
• STUPID DOG! (Ex): Smart as they are, Canin are known for their lack of common sense. They have a tendency to do something without thinking things through, including things that most people would not do out of simple common sense. Examples include picking a fight with a creature significantly bigger and stronger than yourself (adventurers don’t count since that’s part of their job), tasting a strange looking food-like object in the middle of a dungeon, testing a trap discovered by the Rogue to see what it does, etc. Whenever a Canin has the urge to do something that is considered by most to be a bad idea by common sense, they must make a Will Save (DC 15 +1 per round that they remain in the area with the temptation still around) to resist. If the save fails, they must do whatever it is that they want to do. Only being physically restrained by their companions will prevent the action, allowing for another save to resist the urge. When STUPID DOG! comes into play, Smart Wits does not apply and they roll the Save using their Wisdom Modifier as normal 
• Shiba Scream (Su): This special power was created by a member of the Shiba Inu breed and named after the loud, high-pitched scream that Shiba Inus are known for when provoked or upset. While it was once limited to the Shiba Inu, it has spread to be a power unique to all Miniature Canin. 3 times per day, a Miniature Canin can emit the signature shriek that acts like the spell Sonic Blast (Spell Compendium page 195) at an effective Caster Level equal to the Miniature Canin's Character Level. The DC is 10+1/2 HD+Charisma Modifier 
• Breed Groups (Ex): Please Note That This Is Entirely Optional. Use or Ignore As You See Fit. Canin are extremely diverse and can be divided into different groups, specializing in different tasks or features within the community. Some of the groups even have subgroups, dividing the tasks among different factions. The Breed Groups are the Exterminators, Herders, Hounds, Jack of All Trades, Sporting, Social, and Workers, with Intellectuals as a sub-group that can be applied to any of them.

Exterminators: The Exterminators play a vital role in society: they get rid of vermin. Most Exterminators are Canin of the Terrier variety. As such, they are feisty, highly energetic creatures. Most of them are fairly small, being comprised mainly of Miniature and one or two Toy Breeds, but there is one Standard Breed as well. Terriers have little patience for other creatures, except humanoids, including other Canin. They are scrappy and ready for action and have no problem picking fights with creatures bigger than themselves. Exterminators not only hunt for vermin, but they will dig into and enter the tunnels, confronting them inside their own burrows. Exterminators gain a +4 Racial Bonus on Knowledge (Nature) and Search checks; a +2 Innate Bonus on Spot, Listen, and Survival checks; Alertness, Combat Reflexes, Great Fortitude, Iron Will and Tireless (ignoring the Racial prerequisites) as Bonus Feats: a Burrow Speed of 15; and Favored Enemy (Vermin) even if not a Ranger. If they do take Ranger, they gain it as a Bonus Favored Enemy. Exterminators gain Ranger as a Bonus Favored Class

Breeds that are considered Exterminators include Affenpinscher, Brussels Griffon, Miniature Pinscher, and the vast majority of the Terrier group, except for the Yorkshire Terrier and a few other Toys.

Herders: Herders have a reputation as control freaks. Herders do exactly what their name suggests: Herding. They make a living as shepherds, cattle herders, or general livestock herders. They all possess the remarkable ability to control the movements of other animals, keeping them contained and moving them where they want them to go. The instinct to herd is so strong in these Canin that even those who do not make a living as herders will try to herd just about anything they can. This includes other peoples pets and their own friends. Herders are highly intelligent and have excellent stamina. They gain a +2 Charisma; a +6 Racial Bonus on Handle Animal and Profession (Shepherd), Profession (Cattle Driver), or Profession (Livestock Wrangler) checks; a +4 Racial Bonus on Intimidate checks; Alertness, Animal Affinity, Endurance, Great Fortitude, and Skill Focus (Handle Animal) as Bonus Feats. They add Ranger and Druid as Bonus Favored Classes

Breeds that are considered Herders include the Australian Cattle Dog (AKA Blue Heeler), Australian Shepherd, Border Collie, Old English Sheepdog, Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Rough Collie, and Shetland Sheepdog, just to name a few.

Hounds: Hounds are natural hunters specializing in small game. There are two different types of hounds: Scent Hounds and Sighthounds. Scent Hounds have an exceptionally strong sense of smell, even among the Canin, and track their prey by following its scent trail. They could be on this trail for days. Sighthounds have an exceptionally acute sense of sight and are the fastest of the Canin. They have phenomenal stamina and relentlessly chase and run down their quarry. Not all hounds fit into either of these groups. Some use sight and scent equally and thus are not considered either. Hounds gain a +4 Innate Bonus on Spot, Listen, and Survival checks; a +4 Racial Bonus on Knowledge (Nature) and Search checks; Alertness, Great Fortitude, Iron Will, Investigator, Self-Sufficient, and Track as Bonus Feats; Baying: A bay is a loud deep throated noise that is like a cross between a bark and a howl. Hounds, mostly Scent Hounds and uncategorized hounds (Sighthounds don’t use it), will continuously bay while hunting and on a trail. It is a communication method for the hounds’ companions to keep track of where the Canin is, since hounds tend to follow a trail single-mindedly and leave everyone else behind. When a hound bays, his companions (and any other creatures in the area) can make a Listen check at a +15 Circumstance Bonus. If the check succeeds, they know exactly how far ahead the hound is and where he is going, making it easier for them to catch up. Hounds also gain a Favored Enemy of their choice, as long as it is some kind of animal, magical beast, or dragon that they are hunting (example: Rhodesian Ridgebacks get Favored Enemy: Lion), even if they are not a Ranger. If they do take Ranger, they get it as a Bonus Favored Enemy. Hounds add Ranger as a Bonus Favored Class.

 -Scent Hounds: See Canin Scent Hound (3.5e Template) for details

 -Sighthounds: See Canin Sighthound (3.5e Template) for details

Breeds considered Hounds include the Bloodhound, Basset Hound, Greyhound, Italian Greyhound, Whippet, Afghan Hound (pretty much any breed with Hound in the name), and Rhodesian Ridgeback, among others.

Intellectuals: Intellectual is more of a sub-group that can fall under any of the others. While most Canin are smart, some are highly intelligent to genius or near genius levels. However, each breed belongs to one of the other groups, so Intellectual can’t be an actual group on its own. Intellectuals are the smartest of the Canin. They are the best thinkers, problem solvers, inventors, researchers, etc. In addition to the abilities granted to them by their respective groups, Intellectuals receive a few other benefits. They gain a +4 Racial Bonus on Decipher Script, Gather Information, and all Knowledge checks; Able Learner (ignoring the Racial prerequisite), Education, and Skill Focus (Knowledge: choice of 1) as Bonus Feats. Many Intellectuals add Wizard, Archivist, or Marshal (Player’s Choice) as a Bonus Favored Class. Due to Intelligence increases unbalancing their Attributes, Intellectuals gain a +1 Level Adjustment or increase their current Level Adjustment by +1 (possibly +2 or higher for the Border Collie, Standard Poodle, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever, and Doberman) Intellectuals includes the Top 10 most intelligent breeds, listed in descending order: Border Collie, Standard Poodle, German Shepherd, Golden Retriever*, Doberman Pinscher, Shetland Sheepdog, Labrador Retriever, Papillon, Bloodhound, and Rottweiler. Other breeds qualify as well, but these are the most common. Intellectuals gain an additional +4 Int; with the Border Collie, Standard Poodle, German Shepherd, and Golden Retriever getting +6

• The Golden Retriever is a highly intelligent breed, but individuals have varied wildly. Overall, Golden Retrievers have two levels of intelligence: Super Smart and Dumb as a Brick. Little to no middle ground has been observed. They are highly intelligent more often than not, roughly a 20% chance of being Dumb as a Brick at character creation (if not chosen purposefully). If Dumb as a Brick is selected (randomly or on purpose), that individual gains an Attribute Penalty of -6 Intelligence

Jack of All Trades: As the name suggests, Jack of All Trades Canin are not specialists and do not fit neatly into any of the other categories. While not every breed can actually do everything, most of them can do at least three of the others if not more. Hunting (although none of the Jacks would qualify as hounds), working, rescuing, and herding are the most common combinations. Jack of All Trades Canin gain a +2 Racial Bonus on every skill, even if it is not a class skill and, appropriately enough, Jack of All Trades as a Bonus Feat. They add Factotum as a Bonus Favored Class.

Breeds that are considered to be Jacks of All Trades include the American Eskimo (all sizes), Bulldog, Dalmation, Standard Poodle, Shiba Inu, and Tibetan Terrier

Social: The Social Canin are the friendliest of the race. They are sociable, great entertainers, and highly energetic. They are comprised mainly of the Toy and Miniature Breeds, so they are not big creatures. However, what they lack in size, they more than make up for with big personalities. Social Canin are larger than life individuals who greatly enjoy spending time with humanoids, even more so than the other Canin. Social Canin can be divided into three subgroups: Companions, Courtiers/Socialites, and Entertainers. Companions are the socialites of the commoners (social class, not necessarily strictly the class). While they have nothing against the nobility, they feel far more comfortable and at home around everyday people. They greatly enjoy spending time with peasants, laborers, merchants, etc. Courtiers/Socialites are the high society Canin, spending time socializing with the nobility and serving in royal courts. Entertainers bridge the gap between these groups. Everybody needs entertainment and the Entertainer Canin are comfortable with people regardless of social class. Entertainers are often minstrels, comedians, circus performers, etc. Social Canin gain a +2 Charisma; a +2 Racial Bonus on Bluff, Diplomacy, Profession, and Sense Motive checks; Negotiator, Persuasive, and Skill Focus (Diplomacy) as Bonus Feats

Breeds that are Considered to be Social Canin include the Bichon Frise, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, Chinese Crested, Havanese, Japanese Chin, Maltese, Papillon, Pekingese, Pomeranian, Pug, Shih Tzu, and Yorkie, among others.

  -Companions: Companions are the best friend of the common folk.  They hand out with them and listen to their troubles, doing anything they can to help cheer up someone who is feeling down.  They often work the same jobs as commoners or peasants, sharing in their troubles as well.  They will go adventuring as well, usually if one of their friends goes.  Companions gain a +2 Racial Bonus on Handle Animal, Knowledge (Geography), Knowledge (Local), and Ride checks; Animal Affinity, Skill Focus (Handle Animal), and Skill Focus (Profession) as Bonus Feats

While any breed except the Pekingese can be a Companion Canin, Chihuahuas, Chinese Cresteds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, and Pugs are the most common.

   -Courtiers/Socialites: Courtiers/Socialites prefer the company of the upper crust of society.  They rub elbows with nobles and royalty, often employed in a royal court or are just minor nobles themselves.  Courtiers/Socialites always get Knowledge (Nobility and Royalty) as a Class Skill; gain a +2 Racial Bonus on Appraise, Gather Information, Knowledge (History), and Knowledge (Nobility and Royalty) checks; Diligent, Education, Resourceful Buyer, and Skill Focus (Knowledge: Nobility and Royalty) as Bonus Feats; and Leadership as a Bonus Feat as 6th level (if they meet the prerequisites).  They add Knight and Noble (any version) a Bonus Favored Classes

While any breed can be a Courtier/Socialite, the Pekingese is the most common. In fact, the Pekingese will only ever be a Courtier/Socialite. Other breeds that are commonly Courtiers/Socialites include the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (they actually go either way on the social ladder), Shih Tzu, Toy Poodle, Minature Poodle, and Yorkshire Terrier

  -Entertainers: Entertainers mingle with both common folk and the nobility, since everyone needs entertainment.  They are very friendly and love to show off.  They are in entertainment by trade as well and their jobs can include minstrels, comedians, circus performers, stage actors, acrobats, jugglers, jesters, and stage magicians, among others.  Entertainers are fairly athletic, but are often far more agile, preferring Dexterity over Strength.  Entertainers alway get Perform as a Class Skill; gain a +2 Racial Bonus on Balance, Climb, Gather Information, Jump, Knowledge (Local), Knowledge (Nobility and Royalty), Perform, Sleight of Hand, and Tumble checks; Acrobatic, Agile, Agile Athlete, Athletic, Skill Focus (Perform), Smatterings, and Wanderer’s Diplomacy as Bonus Feats; and Versatile Performer at 3rd level (if they meet the prerequisites).  They gain Bard, Jester, and Swashbuckler as Bonus Favored Classes

While any breed, except the Pekingese, can be an Entertainer, the Havanese, Boston Terrier, French Bulldog, Japanese Chin, Maltese, and Pomeranian are the most common.

Sporting: Sporting Canin are natural hunters, specializing in bird hunting. Their main job is locating whatever it is they are hunting, informing their hunting partner of its location, and retrieving it after it has been slain (if no actual dogs are around). Sporting Canin are very high energy, extremely athletic, intelligent, and strong. They require vigorous exercise on at least a daily basis in order to remain content. Sporters, as some call them, love the water and greatly enjoy swimming. Sporters gain a +6 Racial Bonus on Swim checks; a +4 Racial Bonus on Climb and Jump checks; a +2 Racial Bonus on Knowledge (Geography), Knowledge (Nature), Move Silently, and Search checks; Acrobatic, Agile, Athletic, Self-Sufficient, Stealthy, and Track as Bonus Feats; a Swim Speed of 10; and Favored Enemy (Birds) even if not a Ranger. If they do take Ranger, they gain it as a Bonus Favored Enemy.

Breeds that are considered Sporting include the Cocker Spaniel, Springer Spaniel, Irish Setter, Golden Retriever, Labrador Retriever, German Shorthaired Pointer, Vizsla, and Weimaraner, among others

Workers: Workers, as the name suggests, are the hard labor/working members of the Canin. Worker covers a large number of different jobs including Big Game Hunters, Couriers, Farmers, Guardians, Manual Laborers, Rescuers, Sledders (or Sled Drivers), and Warriors/Military. A few can be further divided into specializations. Big Game Hunters are hunting breeds that specialize in hunting larger animals, such as wild boar, bear, etc. Big Game Hunters can even target Magical Beasts or Dragons if they really wanted a challenge. Guardians can specialize in Bodyguard/Property Guardian, City Guard/Law Enforcement, and Livestock Guardians, among others. Rescuers have a variety of specializations including Aquatic/Seafaring Specialists, Cold Climate Specialists, Desert Specialist, Mountaineers (which generally crosses over with Cold Climate Specialist, but not necessarily the other way around), Urban Disaster Rescuer, and Woodlands Specialist. Sledders/Sled Drivers live or come from far northern areas where a sled pulled by a team of dogs is the best method of transport, although some have been known to move farther south. They can be doing a number of different things, including hauling/delivering cargo, food, goods, medicine, etc; racing against other sledders, assisting or even double specializing with Cold Climate Specialists, etc. Sledders generally use a sled dog team in which the members are of a breed that corresponds to the Sledder’s own breed. Warriors are the military and combat experts. Workers can work a wide variety of other jobs as well. Worker Canin are mainly members of the Standard, Large, and some Giant Breeds (although a few Miniatures are considered Workers as well) and are often big and quite strong. They are often quite intelligent as well. Workers add an additional +2 Strength and -2 Dexterity to their Attribute Bonuses at character creation. They gain a +4 Racial Bonus to Intimidate, Knowledge (Architecture and Engineering), and Profession checks and Great Fortitude and Iron Will as Bonus Feats.

 -Big Game Hunter: Big Game Hunters, as the job suggests, hunt large game, generally wild boar, bear, deer, etc.  They differ from the other hunters in that Terriers specialize in vermin, Sporting Canin specialize in birds, and Hounds specialize in small game, such as rabbits or foxes.  While they love the thrill of the hunt, they don’t hunt strictly for fun.  Rather it’s their job.  They are hunting for food or they have been hired to hunt down a large animal, generally a predator, that has become a problem in the area.  They are not above taking trophies from their kills (and proof of the beast’s death is often required for payment in the case of the problem predator) and take great pride in their collections.  Big Game Hunters gain a +4 Innate Bonus on Spot, Listen, and Survival checks; a +2 Racial Bonus on Gather Information and Search checks; Alertness, Investigator, Self-Sufficient, and Stealthy as Bonus Feats; Trophy Collector as a Bonus Feat at 3rd level (assuming they meet the prerequisites); and a Favored Enemy of their choice as long as it is a big animal, magical beast, or dragon.  They gain this even if they are not a Ranger.  If they do take Ranger, they gain it as a Bonus Favored Enemy.  Big Game Hunters add Ranger as a Bonus Favored Class  	

  -Guardian: Guardians have the job of guarding something.  They could be protecting people and/or personal property, serving in law enforcement, guarding livestock, or, in the very specific case of the Lhasa Apso, serve as guards for mountaintop monasteries.  Guardian Canin are naturally suspicious of strangers until the stranger proves that they are not a threat or their employer welcomes them.  Guardians gain Listen and Spot as Class Feats; a +4 Innate Bonus on Spot and Listen checks; a +4 Racial Bonus on Sense Motive Checks; Alertness, Combat Expertise, Combat Reflexes, Improved Initiative, and Indomitable Soul as Bonus Feats; lose the Too Trusting quality and gain a +2 Bonus on saving throws against Charm/Compulsion; and a +1 Level Adjustment.  They add Fighter as a Bonus Favored Class
   -Bodyguards/Property Guardians: Bodyguards/Property Guardians are hired by an individual or a group of individuals, often nobility or royalty, to protect them and their property from harm.  They stay as close to their charges as possible, keeping a sharp eye out for danger.  If their charge happens to be an adventurer, the Bodyguard will accompany them, with the Property Guardian accompanying their employer if the item they are protecting is taken along.  They will protect their charges with their lives, throwing themselves in front of an incoming attack and taking the damage themselves.  Bodyguards/Property Guardians gain a +4 Innate Bonus to Spot and Listen checks; a +4 Racial Bonus on Bluff and Sense Motive checks; Investigator, Lightening Reflexes, Negotiator, Quick Draw, Phalanx Fighting; gain a +2 Bonus to Saving Throws against Charm/Compulsion; and Shieldmate as Bonus Feats; and Take One for the Team: When the Bodyguard’s charge is subject to an attack and the bodyguard is aware of it and within 10 feet of his charge, he can make a Reflex Save (DC at DM’s discretion) to intercept the attack.  If successful, he throws himself in front of his charge, forcefully changing the attacker’s target to himself.  The attack is now subject to the Bodyguard’s AC.  Bodyguards/Property Guardians gain Knight as a Bonus Favored Class
  -City Guard/Law Enforcement: This one is pretty self explanatory as to what they do.  City Guards/Law Enforcement are in charge of keeping the peace in an urban environment.  They are constantly on the lookout for criminals and chase down perpetrators to bring them to justice, sometimes ruthlessly.  They are also in charge of the jails in which they imprison those they arrest.  City Guard/Law Enforcement gain a +4 Innate Bonus on Spot and Listen checks; a +2 Racial Bonus on Diplomacy, Gather Information, Intimidate, and Search checks; Investigator, Negotiator, and Persuasive as Bonus Feats; and gain a +2 Racial Bonus on Saving Throws against Charm/Compulsion
   -Livestock Guardians: Livestock Guardians spend their time out in the pastures with sheep, cows, and other various livestock.  Unlike the Herders though, they don’t herd the livestock.  They simply sit and watch, intent on keeping whatever animals they are guarding safe from predators.  Most will only scare and chase away predators, killing them only if necessary.  Livestock Guardians gain a +4 Innate Bonus on Spot and Listen checks; a +4 Racial Bonus on Bluff checks; Persuasive, Skill Focus (Spot), and Skill Focus (Intimidate) as Bonus Feats; and a Favored Enemy of their choice as long as it is some kind of predatory animal, magical beast, or dragon that typically preys on livestock.  They gain this even if they are not a Ranger.  If they do take Ranger, they gain it as a Bonus Favored Enemy.

 -Rescuers: Rescuers are involved in Search and Rescue missions, tasked with locating and rescuing people who have gotten lost in the wilds.  Rescuers can go for days searching without rest and will stop at nothing to find the ones they are looking for.   Rescuers gain a +4 Innate Bonus on Spot, Listen, and Survival checks; a +4 Racial Bonus on Gather Information, Heal, Knowledge (Local), Knowledge (Nature), and Search checks; Endurance and Diehard (if they don’t already have them), Alertness, Investigator, Self-Sufficient, Skill Focus (Survival), and Track as Bonus Feats; and a +1 Level Adjustment.  Rescuers gain Ranger as a Bonus Favored Class
  -Aquatic/Seafaring Specialists: Aquatic/Seafaring Specialists are Canin who specialize in rescuing people lost at sea, shipwrecked, or in any other kind of danger involving a large body of water.  They are strong swimmers and can even fend off aquatic enemies to protect the one they are rescuing.  Aquatic/Seafaring Specialists gain a +4 Racial Bonus to Swim checks; Athletic, Expert Swimmer, and Swim-By Attack as Bonus Feats; and a Swim Speed of 30 (20+ 10 from Expert Swimmer)
   -Cold Climate Specialists: Cold Climate Specialists live and work in the frozen wastes of the North.  They are experts in tracking people through snow covered ground and heavy snowfall.  Cold Climate Specialists gain a +4 Circumstance Bonus on Survival checks when tracking by scent in the snow; and Cold Endurance, Self-Sufficient, Skill Focus (Survival) and Snow-Blind-Fight (Blind-Fight, but only works in heavy snowfall or blizzards) as Bonus Feats
   -Desert Specialists: Desert Specialists are the opposite of Cold Climate Specialists.  They thrive in a desert environment and excel at tracking down and rescuing people who have gotten lost there.  Desert Specialists gain a +4 Innate Bonus on Survival checks when tracking by scent through a desert; a +4 Racial Bonus on Heal and Knowledge (Nature) checks; a +6 Racial Bonus on Search checks for locating water sources in the desert; Self-Sufficient, Skill Focus (Heal), Skill Focus (Survival), and Heat Endurance as Bonus Feats; and a +4 Bonus on Will Saves for Disbelieving mirages
  -Mountaineers:  Mountaineers live and work high in the mountains.  They specialize in rescuing people who have been caught in landslides and avalanches, have fallen from a cliff and gotten severely injured, or are just lost in general.  Mountaineers gain a +4 Innate Bonus on Climb, Jump, Search, and Survival checks; Athletic, Acrobatic, Investigator, and Leap of the Heavens; Acclimated and Mountain Movement (see Goliath description in Races of Stone page 56) as Racial Features; and all of the bonuses of Cold Climate Specialists.  Due to living at such high altitudes, Mountaineers are always Cold Climate Specialists as well, but Cold Climate Specialists are not always Mountaineers.  Mountaineers gain a +2 Level Adjustment.

Breeds that often serve as Rescuers include the St. Bernard and Newfoundland, among others

    -Sledders: Sledders lead a team of sled dogs to transport goods or race across the frozen wastes.  They are just at home in these climates at the Cold Climate Specialist Rescuers and often assist them on rescue missions.  When a Cold Weather Specialist locates a missing person, it is the Sledder who takes them back to civilization.    Sledders gain a +4 Racial Bonus to Handle Animal, Heal, Ride, and Survival checks and Animal Affinity, Cold Endurance, Self-Sufficient, Skill Focus (Survival) and Snow-Blind-Fight (Blind-Fight, but only works in heavy snowfall or blizzards) as Bonus Feats  

   -Warriors: Warriors are the soldiers of the Worker Canin.  They gain a +2 Innate Bonus on Intimidate checks; Power Attack, Flay, Intimidating Strike, and Steadfast Determination as Bonus Feats

Breeds considered to be Workers include the Akita, Alaskan Malamute, Anatolian Shepherd, Bernese Mountain Dog, Boxer, Chow Chow, Doberman, Great Dane, Great Pyrenees, Lhasa Apso, Mastiff, Newfoundland, Rottweiler, Schipperke, St. Bernard, Siberian Husky, and Standard Schnauzer among others. Although most breeds specialize in a certain job, many can do a large number of the jobs involved. Unless your chosen breed is specifically specialized for one task, pick one of the listed jobs (or even unlisted, such as Manual Labor). 

• Optional Traits (Ex): While most any trait can be applied to Canin, if you're using traits, there are some that work especially well.

Adorable (3.5e Trait), Curious (3.5e Trait), Feral (3.5e Trait), and Hairless (3.5e Trait) are some of the most appropriate

• Automatic Languages: Common
• Bonus Languages: Any (except for secret languages, such as Druidic)
• Favored Class: Rogue
• Level Adjustment: +0
• Effective Character Level: 1

Vital Statistics

Table: Canin, Miniature Random Starting Ages

Adulthood	Simple	Moderate	Complex
30 years	+3d6	+5d6	+7d6

Table: Canin, Miniature Aging Effects

Middle Age1	Old2	Venerable3	Maximum Age
115 years	178 years	240 years	+2d% years
At middle age, −1 to Str, Dex, and Con; +1 to Int, Wis, and Cha. At old age, −2 to Str, Dex, and Con; +1 to Int, Wis, and Cha. At venerable age, −3 to Str, Dex, and Con; +1 to Int, Wis, and Cha.

Table: Canin, Miniature Random Height and Weight

Gender	Base Height	Height Modifier	Base Weight	Weight Modifier
Male	2' 11"	+2d4	40 lb.	× (1d4) lb.
Female	2' 9"	+2d4	35 lb.	× (1d4) lb.

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