The Dog Ox was named so because of its close resemblance to the bulldog. However, a dog ox is not even a mammal, much less a dog. Dog oxen (the plural of dog ox) are actually Stem Mammals.
One of the common traits of the Ketharian classification stem mammal is the scutes on their chest and the front of their legs. These scutes, which look like scales but are actually bony plates covered in horn, act as a natural armor. In the case of dog oxen and some other stem mammals, the scutes can change color to communicate their mood. The resting or unlit coloring of a dog ox’s scutes, that’s when the dog ox is calm, typically ranges between beige, bone white, or black.
The rest of their body, like a bulldog, is covered in short fur that varies in color and pattern. Dog ox colors include brown, white, and black while their patterns mostly consist of solid, spotted, and striped. Though, just as you might expect, some are even brindle.
The next apparent visual difference between bulldogs and dog oxen is their size. On average, dog oxen grow to a height of four and a half feet and a length of five and a half feet.
Dog oxen are relatively slow creatures. Most dog oxen, when unburdened, are capable of running around the speed of a human being at about eight to ten miles per hour. Though, it’s important to note, a dog ox can keep that speed up all day long without tiring. When burdened by something like a landship, dog oxen move at a brisk walking pace of three to five miles per hour.
Aside from being working animals, they are also great companions to humans. Their demeanor is very much like that of a dog, and they enjoy cuddling and playing with their owners. It’s very common for family-like bonds to grow between people and their dog oxen.
Often times, because of their gentle nature and relatively low speed, people will train children to ride a dog ox before any other mount. Dog oxen appear to enjoy activities like this with their families, as they exhibit playful behavior mixed with a sense of pride and responsibility.
With these strong family bonds, you won’t be surprised that dog oxen are protective of their human companions. Whenever threatened, dog oxen are quick to jump to the aid of their loved ones, human or otherwise.
Another unexpected benefit humans gain from dog oxen is their saliva. The saliva can be collected, processed, and used as a moisturizer and lubricant called Ox Balm. Rigid leather bags are harnessed around the dog ox’s mouth for a few hours. Then the collected saliva is poured into a wooden bowl or bucket and stored in a cool dry place. Overnight, the saliva cures and becomes a thick substance that resembles something between wax and lard. This may seem odd but it can become very dry on the plain, and the ox balm works wonders on dry, cracked lips and hands. Ox balm is also great for small, mechanical projects that require lubrication.
Clearly, the dog ox is one of the most important creatures to humans on Kethar. They provide strength, mobility, tools for health, and most importantly, companionship often when it is needed most.
