An illustration of a black dog
The Black Dog is a spectral or supernatural canine found in the folklore of the British Isles and other regions, often associated with death, misfortune, or the paranormal. Typically described as a large, black-furred creature with glowing red or yellow eyes, it is known by various regional names, such as Black Shuck in East Anglia and the Barghest in Yorkshire. Reports of black dog apparitions are frequently linked to remote roads, graveyards, and stormy weather. While some accounts depict it as an omen of death or disaster, others suggest it serves as a guardian or protector, guiding lost travelers to safety.