Cerberus was a terrifying many-headed dog that guarded the entrance to Hades, the underworld in Greek mythology. Cerberus allowed new spirits to enter the land of the dead, and prevented any spirits from leaving. Only a few ever managed to sneak past the creature. One story tells of a man named Orpheus, who lulled Cerberus to sleep by playing to it on a lyre.

 

The Hound of the Baskervilles is a story of demonic dogs ang terrifying curses. According to legend, every member of the Baskerville family would die after being attacked by a giant dog. In the story, ace detective Sherlock Holmes investigates and puts the curse to rest.

 

According to ancient Welsh legends, a wolfhound named Gelert saved the life of a Prince's baby son. Gelert was protecting the baby when a wolf entered the nursery. Gelert fought thw wild beast and killed it, but when the Prince returned home he saw an empty cot and believed that Gelert had killed his child. He ran a sword through Gelert's heart, before finding his baby safe and well, and the body of the dead wolf.

 

Native Americans have lived alongside coyotes, wolves and dogs for thousands of years. Many of their legends tell of the close bond between animal and man. In one story, Coyote hears people worrying about the cold winter ahead. He runs into the mountains and steals fire from the beings that live there. Coyote brings fire back to the people, and teaches them how to make more fire by rubbing sticks together.