Dog

It is fairly common knowledge what a dog is. Generally speaking a dog would not be a target for a witcher. However, there are many cases when dogs become wild, cursed or unnaturally ravenous, sometimes even all of the above. In instances such as these it becomes necessary for a witcher to do battle against them, and other times for him to even play dog catcher.

"Whoever claims that dog is man's best friend, has probably never tamed a wyvern."

- Anonymous druid

Locations

 * Outskirts
 * Temple Quarter
 * Brickmakers' village

Source

 * The Book of Animals

"They say a dog's man is a man's best friend... But in these foul times one best be wary, even of his friends"

- Alfred Pankratz, beggar from Novigrad

For the most part, dogs are domesticated pets, if they are treated well by their masters, they respond with loyalty and trust. However, dogs that are ill-treated will respond in kind. Because there is an abundance of evil men, there is also an abundance of dogs that have become wild and dangerous. The most dangerous of these are the vagrant mutts who have turned their noses from humans and have since developed a taste for blood and carrion.

Dogs will generally remain in packs and choose to attack isolated victims, especially anyone that shows any kind of weakness such as victims too sick or injured to fight back. However, if backed in to a corner, they will defend themselves against any attacker.

Combat Tactics in Witcher 3
Aard is good for pushing back a pack of dogs, compared to other beasts of the world, the dog is lightweight.

Do not underestimate the speed of dogs. While not particularly strong, they are fast, and packs of dogs can easily pack apart a careless Witcher through sheer numbers, and constant attacks

Notes and references
Pes Hund Perro chien Kutya Cane Šuo Pies Собака