D&D Basic Monsters: Worg

Like the Orc, the Worg is largely based on the work of J.R.R.Tolkien, where the Wargs are a breed of intelligent wolf-like creatures in league with orcs and goblins. The name comes from the old Norse/Germanic word for wolf - vargr (the contemporary Swedish word for wolf is 'varg').

In D&D the Warg became a Worg, and in the original Monster Manual they shared stat block with the Dire Wolf, the only difference being their intelligence. Through the editions, the two have parted ways, the Worg becoming more and more of a demonic creature, while the Dire Wolf took the role of more prehistoric form of wolf.