Noble Animals

The origin of noble animals is shrouded in mystery. Some say they are descended from Totem spirits or shamans who stayed in animal form. Others say they were created by gods, mages, or perhaps just simply became to be. Some say they are descendants of Fae.
Noble animals are rare, of several known types, and are physically larger than normal animals and fully sapient. They tend to not breed true, especially when both parents are not noble animals.
Dolphins are not considered noble animals since they are all sentient, they are simply a sapient species without hands.

Bear

A noble bear will stick to itself but considers it the caretaker of its territory and protect it as needed. Because they stay in the same area most of their adult lives they often feature in local folklore and are sought as guides and teachers by locals.

Crocodile

Eagle

Noble eagles primarily reside on the edge of the Barrier Mountains and are known to work with dwarves and others in patrolling the mountains for jotun.

Horse

The best known, probably because they will associate both with centaurs and humans. They are most often encountered  as the mount of a formidable warrior.

Tiger

These powerful but solitary hunters tend to stay in the Land of Wood and keep to themselves.

Wolf