Mastiff
Medium Beast, unaligned
25 XP
Special Abilities
Keen Hearing and Smell
The mastiff has advantage on Wisdom (Perception) checks that rely on hearing or smell.
Actions
Bite
Melee Weapon Attack: +3 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 1) piercing damage. If the target is a creature, it must succeed on a DC 11 Strength saving throw or be knocked prone.
Quick Reference
Running This Encounter
Mastiffs are loyal guard dogs that attack on command or when threatened. They excel in packs, using pack tactics to gain advantage on attacks against single targets. Use them to defend locations, guard NPCs, or harass the party as they travel. Their low HP means they can be quickly dispatched, but their numbers and pack bonus make them dangerous.
Combat Tactics
Mastiffs attack the nearest enemy and use pack tactics whenever possible by coordinating with allies. They bite and hold, attempting to knock prone targets down with their weight advantage. They rarely flee unless heavily outnumbered and will fight to protect their handler or territory.
Environment & Setting
Guard posts, noble estates, caravan camps, and wilderness lairs. They are commonly found wherever they are trained and maintained by owners.