The black dog is a supernatural, spectral, or demonic entity originating from English folklore that has also been seen throughout Europe and the Americas.
It is sometimes associated with electrical storms and also with crossroads, barrows (as a type of fairy hound), places of execution and ancient pathways. Black dogs are generally regarded as sinister or malevolent, and a few are said to be directly harmful. Some black dogs, however, such as the Gurt Dog in Somerset, are said to behave benevolently as guardian black dogs, guiding travellers at night onto the right path or protecting them from danger.
