rockruff #744
Type Matchups
Weak to (2x damage):
Resistant to (½x damage):
rockruff
Generation VII · #0744 — Puppy Pokémon
Rockruff, known as the Puppy Pokémon, is a Rock-type Pokémon that debuted in Generation VII and has captured the hearts of trainers worldwide with its endearing canine characteristics. As National Pokédex entry #0744, Rockruff stands at a modest 0.5 meters tall and weighs 9.2 kilograms, making it an accessible and manageable companion for beginning trainers. Despite its diminutive stature, this Pokémon possesses remarkable sensory abilities and a temperament that evolves dramatically as it matures. The species is particularly notable for its complex evolution mechanics, where Rockruff can evolve into one of three distinct Lycanroc forms depending on the time of day and its specific ability, a feature that was revolutionary for the Generation VII games. With a base stat total of 280 and moderate experience growth rate, Rockruff represents an excellent entry point into Pokémon training while remaining viable throughout a trainer's journey.
Base Stats
Height
0.5m
Weight
9.2kg
Category
Puppy Pokémon
Gender
Male 50% / Female 50%
Color
brown
Shape
quadruped
Abilities
Prevents accuracy from being lowered.
Prevents sleep.
Raises Speed one stage upon flinching.
Rockruff Biology & Physical Characteristics
Rockruff is a quadrupedal, canine Pokémon with a charming appearance that belies its increasingly aggressive nature as it develops. The species features a light brown coat with darker brown markings concentrated on its muzzle, ear tips, and paws, while its most distinctive feature is the ruff of grayish-white fur around its neck that is studded with dark brown pebbles. Its large, expressive blue eyes, small button ears, and triangular pink nose contribute to its puppy-like appeal, though the sharp rocks adorning its neck serve as both a defensive mechanism and an expression of affection toward its trainer. Rockruff's most remarkable biological trait is its exceptional olfactory system; according to Pokédex entries, the species possesses such a sensitive sense of smell that it never forgets an odor after encountering it even once. This extraordinary ability has enabled numerous documented cases of Rockruff tracking their trainers across great distances by following the faintest traces of scent, sometimes pursuing their beloved humans for days until they achieve reunion. The species also has a short, fluffy tail that curves tightly over its back, and its wrist and ankle markings extend to thin, pointed tips that enhance its striking silhouette.
Pokedex Numbers
Training
Breeding
Rockruff Breeding, Gender Ratio & Egg Groups
Rockruff maintains a perfectly balanced gender ratio with exactly 50% of the species being male and 50% female, ensuring equal breeding availability and eliminating gender-specific complications in breeding programs. The species belongs to the Field egg group, which encompasses many canine and mammalian Pokémon, allowing Rockruff to breed with a diverse array of compatible species and creating numerous hybrid breeding possibilities for trainers seeking specific move pools or characteristic combinations. With a base friendship value of 70 and a moderate hatch counter of 15 cycles, Rockruff eggs represent a reasonable investment for trainers seeking to breed their own specimens with optimal individual values or desired natures. The relatively short incubation period of 3,599 to 3,855 steps makes Rockruff one of the more accessible Pokémon for intentional breeding projects compared to legendaries or species with extremely lengthy hatch times. This accessibility, combined with the species' friendly nature and willingness to bond with trainers, makes Rockruff an excellent choice for trainers interested in learning the mechanics of Pokémon breeding and egg production. The Field egg group classification opens possibilities for breeding move inheritance from compatible parents, potentially allowing Rockruff to acquire moves beyond its typical learnset through strategic partner selection, thereby expanding its competitive viability.
Sprites
TMs & HMs
tm02
lets go pikachu lets go eevee
tm03
yellow
tm03
red blue
tm03
lets go pikachu lets go eevee
tm03
blue japan
tm03
red green japan
tm05
ruby sapphire
tm05
emerald
tm05
gold silver
tm05
crystal
tm05
diamond pearl
tm05
black white
tm05
platinum
tm05
heartgold soulsilver
tm05
firered leafgreen
tm05
black 2 white 2
tm05
omega ruby alpha sapphire
tm05
x y
tm05
xd
tm05
colosseum
+466 more TMs/HMs
rockruff's Evolution Chain
Rockruff Evolution, Mega Evolution & Special Forms
Rockruff's evolution into Lycanroc at level 25 represents one of the most mechanically complex and narratively significant evolution methods in the Pokémon franchise. The primary determining factor for which Lycanroc form emerges is the time of day during evolution: Rockruff with Keen Eye, Vital Spirit, or Steadfast abilities will evolve into Midday Form Lycanroc when leveled up during daylight hours, resulting in a sleek, aggressive form aligned with diurnal activity patterns. Conversely, the same Rockruff with identical abilities will instead evolve into Midnight Form Lycanroc if the leveling occurs during nighttime, producing a more robust and powerful nocturnal variant. A third evolution path became available through special event distributions: Rockruff possessing the rare Own Tempo ability—a hidden ability that prevents confusion—will evolve into the exclusive Dusk Form Lycanroc when leveled up during dusk hours, specifically between 5-6 PM in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon or 7-8 PM in subsequent generations. This time-dependent evolution mechanic not only creates meaningful player choice and strategic planning but also serves as a metaphorical representation of Rockruff's transformation from a friendly pup into a form reflecting the environment and circumstances of its maturation. The Own Tempo Rockruff variant itself represents a distinct biological form that can be identified before evolution, though visually the difference is subtle, adding an element of rarity and desirability for collectors and competitive players alike.
Where to Find
ten carat hill
alola
+1 more
alola route 1
alola
Rockruff Behaviour and Natural Habitat
Rockruff's behavioral profile presents a fascinating paradox that defines much of its appeal and challenge as a Pokémon companion. The species is remarkably friendly and affectionate by nature, which is precisely why it earns consistent recommendation as an ideal Pokémon for beginner trainers seeking a reliable and emotionally bonded partner. However, this docility fundamentally shifts as the Pokémon approaches evolution; Pokédex entries from later generations reveal that Rockruff's disposition grows progressively rougher, more violent, and increasingly aggressive as it develops. This behavioral transformation has reportedly led many trainers to abandon their Rockruff due to the challenge of managing its changing temperament, creating a poignant narrative arc within the species' biology. Despite these complications, Rockruff demonstrates exceptional emotional intelligence and loyalty, with Moon version entries noting that the species can sense when its trainer is emotionally distressed and will deliberately stay close to provide comfort and support. The Pokédex also documents that when Rockruff rubs the sharp rocks on its neck against its trainer, this gesture represents a profound expression of love, though the pointed nature of these rocks makes the demonstration quite painful. In terms of habitat, Rockruff has cohabited with humans since ancient times, suggesting its presence across multiple geographic regions and a deep evolutionary history intertwined with human civilization.
Pokedex Entries
Generation VII
It’s considered to be a good Pokémon for beginners because of its friendliness, but its disposition grows rougher as it grows up.
As they develop, their disposition grows more violent and aggressive. Many Trainers find them too much to handle and abandon them.
This Pokémon has lived with people since times long ago. It can sense when its Trainer is in the dumps and will stick close by its Trainer’s side.
When it rubs the rocks on its neck against you, that’s proof of its love for you. However, the rocks are sharp, so the gesture is quite painful!
Generation VIII
This Pokémon can bond very strongly with its Trainer, but it also has a habit of biting. Raising a Rockruff for a long time can be challenging.
This Pokémon intimidates opponents by striking the ground with the rocks on its neck. The moment an opponent flinches, Rockruff attacks.
Rockruff Name Origin & Design Inspiration
Rockruff's name elegantly combines the words 'rock' and 'ruff,' directly referencing the pebble-studded collar of fur that defines its visual appearance and serves as its primary distinguishing feature. The Japanese name 'Iwanko' derives from 'iwa' (rock) and 'ko' (child or dog), emphasizing both its rocky attributes and canine nature in a remarkably concise manner. The design philosophy behind Rockruff draws clear inspiration from real-world puppies and young canids, particularly in its proportions, facial features, and overall demeanor, while the incorporation of geological elements reflects the Rock-type classification and creates a unique fusion of organic and mineral aesthetics. The rocky ruff serves multiple narrative and mechanical purposes: it functions as both an intimidation tool used during ground-striking combat displays and as a tender expression of affection, making it a brilliant design choice that encapsulates the duality between the Pokémon's initial friendliness and its eventual aggressive nature. The progression of this feature throughout the evolutionary line, becoming more pronounced and weaponized in Lycanroc, suggests a narrative of growth where innocent adornments transform into formidable armaments. The color palette of light brown with darker brown accents and grayish-white rocky elements creates a palette reminiscent of natural stone formations and earth tones, grounding the design in geological authenticity while maintaining the cute appeal necessary for a species aimed at beginner trainers.
Learnable Moves
Rockruff can learn 64 moves:
Move | Type | Cat. | Power | Acc. | PP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| attract | normal | Status | — | 100 | 15 |
| bite | dark | Physical | 60 | 100 | 25 |
| body slam | normal | Physical | 85 | 100 | 15 |
| bulldoze | ground | Physical | 60 | 100 | 20 |
| charm | fairy | Status | — | 100 | 20 |
| confide | normal | Status | — | — | 20 |
| covet | normal | Physical | 60 | 100 | 25 |
| crunch | dark | Physical | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| crush claw | normal | Physical | 75 | 95 | 10 |
| dig | ground | Physical | 80 | 100 | 10 |
| double team | normal | Status | — | — | 15 |
| double edge | normal | Physical | 120 | 100 | 15 |
| earth power | ground | Special | 90 | 100 | 10 |
| echoed voice | normal | Special | 40 | 100 | 15 |
| endeavor | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 5 |
| endure | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| facade | normal | Physical | 70 | 100 | 20 |
| fire fang | fire | Physical | 65 | 95 | 15 |
| frustration | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 20 |
| helping hand | normal | Status | — | — | 20 |
| hidden power | normal | Special | 60 | 100 | 15 |
| howl | normal | Status | — | — | 40 |
| hyper voice | normal | Special | 90 | 100 | 10 |
| iron defense | steel | Status | — | — | 15 |
| iron head | steel | Physical | 80 | 100 | 15 |
| iron tail | steel | Physical | 100 | 75 | 15 |
| last resort | normal | Physical | 140 | 100 | 5 |
| leer | normal | Status | — | 100 | 30 |
| mud slap | ground | Special | 20 | 100 | 10 |
| odor sleuth | normal | Status | — | — | 40 |
| play rough | fairy | Physical | 90 | 90 | 10 |
| protect | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| psychic fangs | psychic | Physical | 85 | 100 | 10 |
| rest | psychic | Status | — | — | 5 |
| return | normal | Physical | — | 100 | 20 |
| roar | normal | Status | — | — | 20 |
| rock climb | normal | Physical | 90 | 85 | 20 |
| rock polish | rock | Status | — | — | 20 |
| rock slide | rock | Physical | 75 | 90 | 10 |
| rock throw | rock | Physical | 50 | 90 | 15 |
| rock tomb | rock | Physical | 60 | 95 | 15 |
| round | normal | Special | 60 | 100 | 15 |
| sand attack | ground | Status | — | 100 | 15 |
| sandstorm | rock | Status | — | — | 10 |
| scary face | normal | Status | — | 100 | 10 |
| sleep talk | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| snarl | dark | Special | 55 | 95 | 15 |
| snore | normal | Special | 50 | 100 | 15 |
| stealth rock | rock | Status | — | — | 20 |
| stomping tantrum | ground | Physical | 75 | 100 | 10 |
| stone edge | rock | Physical | 100 | 80 | 5 |
| substitute | normal | Status | — | — | 10 |
| sucker punch | dark | Physical | 70 | 100 | 5 |
| swagger | normal | Status | — | 85 | 15 |
| swords dance | normal | Status | — | — | 20 |
| tackle | normal | Physical | 40 | 100 | 35 |
| take down | normal | Physical | 90 | 85 | 20 |
| taunt | dark | Status | — | 100 | 20 |
| tera blast | normal | Special | 80 | 100 | 10 |
| thrash | normal | Physical | 120 | 100 | 10 |
| thunder fang | electric | Physical | 65 | 95 | 15 |
| toxic | poison | Status | — | 90 | 10 |
| trailblaze | grass | Physical | 50 | 100 | 20 |
| zen headbutt | psychic | Physical | 80 | 90 | 15 |
Rockruff Competitive Battle Guide
In competitive Pokémon play, Rockruff occupies a unique but limited niche as a transition Pokémon rather than a viable late-game competitor. With a base stat total of only 280 distributed across relatively modest individual stats—including 65 Attack, 60 Speed, and minimal Special Attack at 30—Rockruff struggles to impact competitive matches independently. However, the species' primary competitive value emerges from its evolution potential into significantly superior Lycanroc forms, with both Midday and Midnight variants receiving substantially improved stat distributions that make them competitive threats in their respective metagames. The three available abilities reflect different strategic directions: Keen Eye prevents opponent accuracy reduction, Vital Spirit blocks sleep-inducing moves, and the hidden ability Steadfast provides a Speed boost when the Pokémon flinches, creating interesting psychological elements in prediction-based battles. Rockruff's movepool, while not exceptional, includes reliable Rock-type coverage moves and basic physical attacks that provide functional offensive options, though its low Speed of 60 and defensive stats of 40 Defense and 40 Special Defense mean it will typically be outsped and severely damaged by most competitive threats. For professional tournaments and ranked battles, Rockruff functions exclusively as a stepping stone toward evolution, making it unsuitable for serious competitive teams except in specialized formats that permit only unevolved Pokémon. Nevertheless, in casual play and beginner-level competition, Rockruff's respectable Attack stat and reasonable movepool make it a serviceable physical attacker for early-game progression.
Commonly Asked Questions About Rockruff
What type is Rockruff?
Rockruff is a rock type Pokemon.
What does Rockruff evolve into?
Rockruff evolves into lycanroc-midday.
What are Rockruff's weaknesses?
Rockruff is weak to fighting, ground, steel, water and grass type moves.
Where can I find Rockruff?
Rockruff can be found in ten carat hill (alola) and alola route 1 (alola).
Rockruff Cultural Impact & Franchise History
Rockruff has become an iconic symbol of the Generation VII games and the Alola region, appearing extensively in promotional materials, anime adaptations, and merchandising throughout the Pokémon franchise. The species' compelling narrative arc—beginning as a beloved companion and progressively becoming more challenging and aggressive—resonates deeply with players' experiences of growth, change, and the complexities of nurturing relationships that transform over time. Ash Ketchum's Rockruff in the Pokémon Sun & Moon anime series achieved significant character development, becoming one of the most memorable Pokémon in the anime's later seasons through its emotional journey and eventual evolution, thereby introducing the species to millions of viewers worldwide. The design's emphasis on Japanese rock gardens and geological aesthetics provided international audiences with appreciation for natural phenomena and mineral formations, subtly educating players about geological diversity while maintaining engaging gameplay mechanics. Merchandise featuring Rockruff has become widely available globally, from plushies and trading cards to apparel and collectibles, demonstrating strong commercial appeal that extends beyond dedicated Pokémon enthusiasts. The species has also influenced subsequent game design, with developers increasingly incorporating time-dependent mechanics and complex evolution conditions inspired by Rockruff's multi-form evolution system. Furthermore, the emotional narrative embedded within Rockruff's behavioral progression—from innocent puppy to challenging companion—has become a cultural reference point in discussions about Pokémon design philosophy and storytelling within game mechanics.
Where to Find Rockruff in Every Pokémon Game
Rockruff maintains consistent availability across multiple generation generations and game regions, first appearing in Pokémon Sun and Moon as entry 0103 in the Alola regional Pokédex and subsequently in Ultra Sun and Ultra Moon as entry 0126. The species has appeared in every mainline Pokémon generation since Generation VII, including Sword and Shield, Scarlet and Violet, and all associated DLC expansions, ensuring trainers have regular opportunities to obtain specimens. In Scarlet and Violet, Rockruff is registered as Pokédex entry 0089 in the main Galar dex and appears with specific habitats designated for its encounters, while the Isle of Armor DLC lists it as entry 0157 and The Teal Mask DLC as entry 0070, demonstrating its widespread integration into modern Pokémon games. The species' high capture rate of 190—significantly higher than average—makes obtaining Rockruff a relatively straightforward endeavor that requires minimal resource expenditure, particularly important for beginner trainers attempting to assemble their first team. Rockruff is not available through wild encounters in all games uniformly, instead appearing as a failable catch during specific routes or through gift distributions in certain titles, requiring trainers to understand regional availability variations. The existence of both common Rockruff and rare Own Tempo Rockruff variants through event distributions has created collecting opportunities for dedicated players, with the event-exclusive Dusk Form evolution serving as a particular incentive for trainers seeking complete Lycanroc form collections. The species' consistent presence across generation and region, combined with its early appearance in game progression, ensures accessibility for players of all experience levels.