In Elden Ring, players frequently encounter strange and terrifying foes throughout the Lands Between. Among the more memorable early-game bosses is the Erdtree Burial Watchdog. With its unnerving movements and stone-like design, this guardian of catacombs has become a notable challenge for both newcomers and experienced players. But finding the Erdtree Burial Watchdog isn’t always straightforward. This guide will explore the locations of this unique boss, what to expect in battle, and how to reach each site across different regions in the game.
Understanding the Erdtree Burial Watchdog
A Golem-Like Guardian
The Erdtree Burial Watchdog is a bizarre, statue-like enemy with a disjointed way of moving. It resembles a carved feline or canine creature brought to life with a stone sword and eerie stillness. Its attacks are deliberate, mechanical, and often misleading due to unpredictable timing. This enemy can surprise players with powerful area attacks and sudden leaps, making it more dangerous than it first appears.
Variants of the Boss
Though the base model of the Erdtree Burial Watchdog is similar across locations, there are different versions with unique weapons or additional threats. Some use a staff to cast magic, others are accompanied by lesser foes like imps, and some fights even involve dual Watchdogs. Knowing which version you’re facing is important for planning your strategy.
Where to Find the Erdtree Burial Watchdog
Locations Across the Lands Between
The Erdtree Burial Watchdog appears in several dungeons throughout Elden Ring, usually within catacombs tied to the Erdtree’s influence. These are typically hidden or optional side areas, but they’re rewarding for players seeking Runes, upgrade materials, and Spirit Ashes.
Limgrave – Stormfoot Catacombs
The earliest and most well-known location for the Erdtree Burial Watchdog is the Stormfoot Catacombs. This area is located northwest of the Church of Elleh, not far from where players begin their journey after entering Limgrave.
- From the Church of Elleh, head north and slightly west.
- Look for a slope leading down into a stone door nestled in a cliffside.
- Activate the Site of Grace at the entrance to Stormfoot Catacombs.
- Proceed through the dungeon, fighting imps and navigating traps until reaching the boss room.
This version of the Erdtree Burial Watchdog wields a sword and uses fire-based slam attacks. Defeating it here often rewards you with valuable early-game Spirit Ashes.
Weeping Peninsula – Impaler’s Catacombs
Another Erdtree Burial Watchdog can be found in the Weeping Peninsula, south of Limgrave. Travel across the Bridge of Sacrifice to access this region, then head northeast from the main road.
- The entrance to the Impaler’s Catacombs is near cliffs overlooking the ocean.
- This boss fight includes additional enemies like imps that spawn alongside the Watchdog.
Combat becomes more hectic in this encounter due to the added pressure from the smaller enemies. It’s wise to bring Spirit Ashes or magic to help manage the crowd.
Liurnia of the Lakes – Cliffbottom Catacombs
As players explore Liurnia, they’ll encounter a more advanced version of the Erdtree Burial Watchdog in the Cliffbottom Catacombs. This area lies on the southern cliffs of Liurnia, accessible by traveling through the marshlands and following the rock walls upward.
In this location:
- The boss wields a magical staff, allowing for ranged fire attacks.
- It floats at times and unleashes magical AoEs that are hard to dodge in tight spaces.
This variation introduces magic into the Watchdog’s arsenal, making it a unique and more threatening version compared to the early-game encounters.
Caelid – Minor Erdtree Catacombs
In the rot-infested lands of Caelid, players can challenge an even more dangerous variant of the Erdtree Burial Watchdog. The Minor Erdtree Catacombs can be found west of the Minor Erdtree in central Caelid.
- This fight pits you against two Erdtree Burial Watchdogs at once.
- Each one has different moves, and they don’t attack in sync.
This is one of the more difficult iterations, especially for solo players. Summoning allies or Spirit Ashes is strongly recommended to survive the constant assault from both bosses.
Strategies for Defeating the Erdtree Burial Watchdog
Learning the Attack Patterns
Although the Erdtree Burial Watchdog has a robotic movement style, its attack animations are deliberately slow and oddly timed. This can trick players into dodging too early or blocking at the wrong time. The key is to:
- Watch for the wind-up. Most attacks have a brief pause before execution.
- Maintain distance when it lifts into the air it often slams down with an explosive shockwave.
- Dodge later than you might expect.
Exploiting Weaknesses
The Watchdog has no significant elemental resistance, so fire, magic, or lightning can be effective. Weapons with bleed or poison buildup can also wear it down over time. Spirit Ashes like wolves or skeletal militiamen can serve as distractions while you attack from behind.
Handling Multiple Enemies
In dungeons like the Impaler’s or Minor Erdtree Catacombs, where multiple enemies are present, crowd control becomes vital. Use AoE spells or large sweeping weapons to keep imps or a second Watchdog at bay. Don’t tunnel vision on the main boss clear the adds to gain breathing room.
Rewards for Defeating the Watchdog
Each version of the Erdtree Burial Watchdog grants different rewards. Some of the more notable include:
- Noble Sorcerer Ashes Great for summoning a ranged ally
- Glintstone Sorcerer Ashes Stronger alternative to early-game summons
- Mad Pumpkin Head Ashes A powerful Spirit Summon for tanking
- Various Grave Gloveworts Used to upgrade Spirit Ashes
Defeating these bosses not only gives valuable items but often unlocks new strategies for harder fights later in the game.
Is It Worth Seeking Out All Watchdogs?
Though not required for story progression, hunting down every Erdtree Burial Watchdog is worthwhile for completionists and those who enjoy the challenge of unique boss fights. These encounters offer a mix of enemy variety, dungeon layouts, and valuable rewards that contribute to build experimentation and character growth.
Additionally, each catacomb often contains hidden loot, puzzle mechanisms, and upgrade materials that are essential for enhancing your Spirit Ashes and weapons. Even if you’re a veteran of Souls-like games, the Watchdog encounters remain an eerie and enjoyable part of the Elden Ring experience.
Finding the Erdtree Burial Watchdog in Elden Ring means diving into the many catacombs hidden throughout the world. From Limgrave to Caelid, each version of this haunting guardian presents its own challenges and rewards. Whether you’re looking for new Spirit Ashes, materials to power up your summons, or just want to test your combat skills, tracking down and defeating the Watchdog is a satisfying endeavor. Be prepared, learn its timing, and use the tools Elden Ring gives you you’ll come out stronger with each fight you win.