Western dragons are usually quite tall and heavy with claws and bat-like wings. They are typically scaly but may also have fur or feathers. Some are black as the night but they are all shinny. Some have forked tongues, others crests, fringes, or some other adornment. It always has the ability to belch forth fire and smoke.

In contrast, the dragons of the East are a montage of many animals. An Eastern dragon has the head of a horse or camel, ears of an ox, the neck or body of a snake, the belly of a clam, scales of a fish, feet of a tiger, and talons of an eagle. Common everyday dragons have three to four claws, where the Imperial dragon has five. Eastern dragons can become invisible or visible by will alone. This dragon generally suspends a pearl around its neck, symbolizing the sun and holding the dragon's power.

In the West, dragons are either cave dwellers or mountain predators. Cave dwellers feel comfort in the dark, dank coldness of caves. The caves, filled with fire and water, are easily guarded and are often located close to towns, where food is convenient. Mountain predators live in cave-riddled mountains that provide an invincible edifice.

Eastern dragons are found in many places depending upon their nature. The Subterranean Dragon or the Treasure Keeper guards the precious metal and jewels found buried deep within the earth. The Terrestrial Dragon or River Lord regulates and maintains the rivers, altering their courses as needed. The Divine Dragon or Weather Maker forms clouds, wind, and rain. There is also the Celestial Dragon, who protects the heavens and the homes of the gods.

In the West, dragons are evil beasts. There are many myths and legends of dragon slayers such as Hercules and Seguird. Many people gained sainthood after slaying a dragon like St. Michael, St. George, St. Catherine and St. Margaret. The places where the dragons were slain are found all over England appropriately titled "Dragon Hill" or something very similar. Western dragons like to feast upon human flesh preferring the weak and young. It typically takes to flight at night to spread pestilence over the land. In addition, the Western dragon holds secrets and knowledge that will only be revealed upon its death. One must drink the dragon's blood and eat its flesh to discover the secrets. The Western dragon is destructive, evil, and frightful.

In the East, if one encounters a dragon they receive a gift as opposed to death. The dragon is a companion and a teacher. Dragons are looked to for guidance and cherished as great and wonderful beings.