Mrs. Starchaser
OUT OF CHARACTER INFORMATION
Intent: To create a species native to Cyborrea, a reward for SJO Dominion of the planet.
Image Credit: https://russianbeardogca.tumblr.com/post/162233226182/russian-bear-dog
Canon: https://starwars.fandom.com/wiki/Nek/Legends
Links: N/A
Name: Nek, Cyborrean Battle Dog
Designation: Non-sentient
Origins: Cyborrea
Average Lifespan: 8-11 years
Estimated Population: Planetary – for the most part, rare off-world.
Description: A powerful canine, bred for use as weapons of war. They are large, powerful, and can be quite vicious. In their unaltered state, they have long fur, a strong physique, and very sharp teeth. However, these dogs are usually seen shaved and wearing armor, and altered with cybernetic implants.
Breathes: Type I
Average Height of Adults: 75cm
Average Length of Adults: N/A
Skin color: Black or tan
Hair color: Generally tri-color (black, tan, white), all black is common, while all white is rare.
Distinctions: Sharp teeth, large size, claws.
Races: N/A
Force Sensitivity: Non-Sensitive
Powerful: Their strong, muscular physique and large size make them a formidable foe.
Loyal: If sufficiently trained (or altered by implants), this dog is very protective of its owner.
Fearless: The Nek was bred for battle, the dogs are not frightened easily.
Training: A naturally aggressive dog, it is difficult to train – one of the reasons Cyborreans often aid the process with cybernetic implants. However, it is not uncommon for a dog to attack a trainer if pushed too far or abused.
Hip dysplasia: A common problem that often needs treatment, especially in older dogs. If left untreated, can cause pain, difficulty walking, and decrease in strength.
Diet: Carnivore
Communication: Barks, growls, and body language.
Technology level: N/A
Religion/Beliefs: N/A
General behavior: Pack behavior, the dogs like to be in groups – and will establish a leader, often via fighting. They are naturally very protective. These packs of Neks can be very dangerous as they are difficult to control, dog attacks are common on Cyborrea. These dogs were bred to be very powerful, aggressive, and fearless.
Measuring 75cm at the shoulder and weighing, on average, 77kg – the Nek is a large dog. Bred to be battle dogs, docility and timidity are considered defects. The Cyborreans were quick to make use of this fighting dog, putting them to use in battle – often with armor of their own. Most Neks are shaved, to aid their ability to wear protective armor, and receive cybernetics. Due to the fact that this canine is notoriously difficult to train, their handlers often alter them with cybernetic implants to make them fearless and obey commands.
These dogs have long been with the Cyborreans that originally bred them. They have been used in their endless battles for power and territory, and have become a symbol of strength on the world. Though they are generally found on Cyborrea, some battle dogs have been found on the black market in the past.
While extremely difficult, Neks can be trained without implants. If trained successfully, they make very loyal and protective companions. These dogs are not recommended for houses will small animals or children – unless, perhaps the handler is able to rescue a gentle Nek that has been deemed a reject by most Cyborrean standards. Trained Neks may be helpful additions for military and security personnel.
