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Hellhounds are demonic, spectral, or supernatural dogs appearing in folklore and mythology, often described as monstrous and fearsome. Famous examples include Cerberus from Greek mythology, the watchdog of the Underworld, and various spectral hounds from British and other folklores that are omens of death or guardians of hellish realms. They are also a recurring theme in modern media, appearing in fantasy, horror, and video games, often serving powerful masters. 

In mythology and folklore

• Greek mythology: Cerberus is the most famous example, a multi-headed dog that guards the gates of Hades to prevent the dead from leaving.
• British folklore: Spectral black dogs are prominent, such as the Yeth Hound in Devon, which is headless and wails in the woods, or the Kunanoon in Welsh folklore, whose howl is an omen of death. The earliest written record of a “hell hound” appears in the 11th-century Anglo-Saxon Chronicle, which describes packs of large, black dogs with red eyes seen in the woods.
• Other cultures: Hellhounds are also found in various other mythologies, often as guardians or servants of demonic forces. 

In modern media and fictionFantasy and horror: They are a common trope, appearing as both fierce enemies and sometimes even helpful spirits.Video games: Many games feature hellhounds as enemies, with abilities ranging from physical attacks to creating an aura of fear.Literature and film: Hellhounds have been adapted in numerous books, movies, and TV shows, often with modern twists on the classic concepts. Hellhound | mythological creature | BritannicaSep 25, 2025 — Cerberus is usually depicted as a monstrous watchdog. However, the poet Hesiod (7th century BCE) said that Cerberus had 50 heads. In mythology, Cerb…Britannica