Yarchuk

Yarchuk in Ukrainian mythology is a mythical dog that was feared by witches, sorcerers and other representatives of evil spirits. He had wolf fangs and was considered a powerful protector against evil spirits. In some areas, it was identified with a puppy born from the third generation of bitches, who first gave birth to a puppy, often a female. When Yarchuk grew up, he became very strong and was even able to bite or bite a witch. The wound from Yarchuk`s bite was considered almost incurable, so the witches tried to destroy him at an early age.

This mythological dog is also associated with spring, in particular with the "spring" force that comes with the awakening of nature after winter. Yarchuk was not only considered a protector against evil forces, but was also used in folk beliefs to ensure safety and protection from harmful magical influences.

Protection from witches with the participation of Yarchuk was so effective that people used rites to save him - they planted the puppy in a pit and covered it with an aspen harrow to protect him from the influence of witches.

Yarchuk symbolized powerful protection against evil forces, especially witches, and was an important figure in Ukrainian folklore as a defender of good