Dorsal Dragons are so named because they have large fins along their backs that can be raised and lowered at will. They use these fins to regulate body temperature; they raise them to cool off when they become overheated. The bright colors on the fins double as a means of attracting mates.

Dragons are highly-intelligent reptilian creatures that—from a human perspective, at least—appear to live forever. Many different varieties of dragon exist, each with their own unique qualities, habitats, and behavior. Adolescence in dragons is usually marked by the growth of a hatchling’s wings, although not all breeds of dragons grow wings and some breeds have other traits that indicate the beginning of maturation. In Galsreim, dragons and humans coexist peacefully.

The previous owner was never fond of this specific dragon and has always rudely insulted it, calling it "a dog with fins," while it was growing up. Being naturally fierce and powerful, Dog With Fins had that human for lunch as soon as he was strong enough. Since then, he found himself a better caretaker (as humans are very useful to wash and scratch those hard-to-reach spots), but he kept his nickname as he has gotten rather attached to it over the years.