Training Direwolves: The Case of Rickon Stark and Shaggydog

Ever since the sinking of the White Walkers, the Starks of Winterfell have lived in a world where direwolves are considered mysterious and rare. In The Song of Ice and Fire series, specifically in 'A Game of Thrones', Rickon Stark, the youngest of Eddard Stark’s children, forms a unique bond with his direwolf, Shaggydog. Readers often wonder how Rickon managed to train his fearsome companion, especially given Eddard’s emphasis on his children training their direwolves themselves.

Formal Training vs. Natural Bonding

Eddard Stark did stress the importance of his children training their direwolves with care and responsibility. However, it is important to note that Rickon's relationship with Shaggydog is more intuitive and innate rather than formally structured. Unlike his older siblings, Rickon's bond with Shaggydog is largely instinctual and emotional.

The direwolves, like the Starks themselves, are depicted as extensions of their family, and their training does not require the same level of conscious effort as training other animals. Direwolves exhibit a strong instinctive understanding of their Stark counterparts, allowing for a more organic relationship. The emotional bond between Rickon and Shaggydog, coupled with Shaggydog's natural instincts, enabled them to form a deep connection. This mutual understanding and companionship were the driving forces behind their unique relationship, rather than formal commands and training.

Context and Expectations

A close look at the timeline and context of 'A Game of Thrones' reveals that the Starks were no strangers to training and discipline at a young age. Many young Stark children were trained in various skills from a very early age. For instance, they were taught to shoot a bow, hunt with wooden swords, and even ride horses. Given this background, it’s reasonable to assume that Eddard Stark viewed the training of a direwolf as merely another lesson in responsibility. Successful training would be rewarded, while failure could result in the direwolf's life.

Wild and Violent

Unfortunately, Rickon’s relationship with Shaggydog was marked more by chaos than order. Described as 'wild and violent', both Rickon and Shaggydog were considered uncontrollable. The traumatic events that led to their wild nature are rooted in Rickon’s own experiences. After his older brother Robb went to war, Rickon became upset and lashing out at those around him, including Old Nan, whom he even punched when she tried to comfort him. Due to this turbulent period, Shaggydog's behavior mirrored Rickon's, becoming more savage and unpredictable.

The Crypt Incident

The turning point in their story was the incident in the crypts where they encountered a rusty iron sword. In a fit of anger and grief, Rickon slashed at those who searched for him and Shaggydog emerged from the darkness like a wild force, nearly attacking those who tried to help. Even the seasoned Grey Wind, the direwolf of Robb Stark, had to control Shaggydog. Eventually, the direwolf was placed in the kennels, but Rickon became more distressed, crying out for the companionship of his wolf.

Future Prospects for Rickon

Given the unpredictable and wild nature of Shaggydog, it’s clear that the direwolf was never properly trained. If the direwolves had not been needed for battle, the outcome could have been different. However, considering the dire threat of the White Walkers and the risk to the Stark family, it was necessary to send some members north of the Wall. Rickon’s future with Shaggydog was uncertain, but with Osha's involvement, he managed to stay with Bran, Meera, and Jojen. This storyline raises intriguing questions about how Rickon's character and relationship with Shaggydog will evolve in the larger narrative of 'A Song of Ice and Fire'.