Top 10 How to Train My Dragon Characters of All Time

#1: Toothless

Arguably the soul of the franchise, Toothless isn’t just a dragon—he’s a symbol of connection, growth, and loyalty. As the last known Night Fury, Toothless begins his journey as a feared and mysterious creature, capable of incredible destruction with his plasma blasts and unmatched aerial agility. But through Hiccup’s compassion, he transforms into one of the most lovable and expressive creatures in animated cinema. Despite lacking the ability to speak, Toothless communicates volumes through his eyes, gestures, and roguish catlike behavior. He’s curious, cautious, playful, and fiercely protective of those he loves. One of the most poignant aspects of his relationship with Hiccup is their shared disability—Hiccup loses a leg, and Toothless, part of his tail fin. Their mutual dependence is never portrayed as weakness, but as strength through unity, a theme central to the story.

One of the most memorable scenes in the entire trilogy is the “touch” moment in the first film, where Hiccup reaches out and Toothless presses his forehead into the boy’s hand. It’s a moment devoid of words, but rich in trust and vulnerability. Throughout the films, Toothless grows from a hidden predator to the king of dragons. His courtship with the Light Fury in “The Hidden World” adds layers to his character, showcasing his capacity for love and leadership. Animation-wise, Toothless was inspired by a blend of panthers, cats, and even axolotls—his smooth movements and quirky reactions are a marvel of character design.

Toothless’s name, of course, is a joke—he has retractable teeth—but it becomes a metaphor too. What appears dangerous on the surface may actually be gentle and misunderstood. That’s the message he embodies. He breaks barriers—not just between dragon and human, but between fear and empathy. His playful interactions, like drawing in the sand or imitating Hiccup’s mannerisms, often provide comedic relief, but also showcase his immense intelligence.

Fans continue to debate whether Toothless is more like a loyal dog or an aloof cat, but the truth is he’s a rich blend of both—one minute he’s chasing fish and tumbling like a kitten, the next he’s unleashing a powerful blast to defend his rider. The trust between him and Hiccup is never shaken, even when external forces try to drive a wedge between them. From their first uncertain glances to their final tearful goodbye, their bond defines the saga. Even when Toothless chooses to return to the Hidden World, the memory of his friendship with Hiccup lingers, reminding viewers of the bittersweet nature of letting go. In the end, Toothless is more than a dragon—he is legacy, loyalty, and love wrapped in scales and wings.

#2: Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III

At the heart of the “How to Train Your Dragon” saga is Hiccup Horrendous Haddock III, the boy who defied tradition, tamed the un-tamable, and redefined what it means to be a Viking. From an awkward, undersized blacksmith’s apprentice to the wise and courageous chief of Berk, Hiccup’s journey is one of the most compelling arcs in modern animation. His character begins as an outsider—misunderstood by his tribe and even by his father, Stoick the Vast. Hiccup’s intelligence, empathy, and inventive nature don’t align with the rough-and-tumble warrior ideals of Berk. But it’s exactly those differences that become his greatest strengths.

Hiccup’s transformation begins the moment he meets Toothless. Rather than killing the injured Night Fury as expected, Hiccup chooses compassion, sparking a revolution in dragon-human relationships. His empathy and intuition allow him to see dragons not as enemies but as misunderstood creatures, victims of fear and violence. This single act sets the tone for the entire franchise and redefines the identity of his people. He creates the prosthetic tail fin for Toothless, engineers innovative flight mechanisms, and builds tools that make him the most skilled dragon rider in existence. Despite losing his leg in battle, he never loses his resolve. Instead, his prosthetic becomes part of his warrior identity.

One of Hiccup’s most powerful qualities is his unwavering belief in diplomacy over violence. Whether negotiating with Drago Bludvist, facing the Dragon Hunters, or choosing to release Toothless into the Hidden World, Hiccup consistently leads with his heart. He values freedom, choice, and harmony—ideals often at odds with the Viking legacy he’s expected to uphold. His dynamic with his father is especially poignant. Initially marked by disappointment and misunderstanding, their relationship evolves into one of mutual respect, culminating in Stoick’s tearful pride before his tragic death.

Hiccup is also a brilliant strategist and leader, assembling the Dragon Riders, fostering unity among the dragon species, and guiding his people to safety multiple times. His romance with Astrid adds further depth, revealing his insecurities and his capacity for love and trust. Unlike many traditional heroes, Hiccup doesn’t become strong by becoming more aggressive—he becomes strong by staying true to his values. His sense of humor, often dry and self-deprecating, adds to his charm, and his inventive mind never rests, always creating, questioning, and adapting.

By the end of the trilogy, Hiccup makes one of the hardest decisions a character can face: saying goodbye to the one he loves most to ensure a better future. His farewell to Toothless is not only heartbreaking but beautifully mature, showing his evolution from boy to leader. In the epilogue, when he reunites with Toothless and introduces his own children, the story comes full circle. Hiccup’s legacy is one of peace, compassion, and visionary leadership. He didn’t just train a dragon—he changed the world.

#3: Astrid Hofferson

Strong, fierce, loyal, and unyieldingly brave, Astrid Hofferson is much more than just Hiccup’s love interest—she’s a pillar of strength in the world of Berk and one of the most capable dragon riders in the entire franchise. Introduced as a tough and competitive warrior-in-training, Astrid is the epitome of the Viking ideal: she’s athletic, resourceful, and has a warrior’s spirit that can’t be broken. However, her arc shows that even the fiercest fighters have depth, emotion, and vulnerability. While initially skeptical of Hiccup’s methods and friendship with Toothless, Astrid is the first of the Viking teens to come around, recognizing the importance of Hiccup’s vision long before others do.

Her character blends a remarkable amount of confidence with emotional intelligence. Astrid supports Hiccup without compromising her own beliefs or strength. She challenges him when necessary, but she always has his back. This mutual respect is what makes their relationship so genuine. Astrid’s dragon, Stormfly—a deadly Nadder with a bright, spiky appearance and loyalty that matches her rider—is the perfect complement to Astrid’s fearless personality. Together, they form one of the most formidable aerial duos in the dragon world.

Astrid doesn’t hesitate to dive headfirst into battle, but she also shows a deep sense of loyalty and caring for her tribe and friends. She’s often the first to jump into danger to protect others, yet she never comes off as reckless. Her wisdom in war and loyalty in friendship solidify her as one of the leaders of the Dragon Riders. Whether it’s tracking enemy ships, leading recon missions, or helping plan strategies, Astrid is integral to the team’s success.

Her relationship with Hiccup is one of the most realistically developed romances in animation. Rather than a dramatic, sudden infatuation, it grows over time—from tension to admiration to love. By “The Hidden World,” she’s not only his partner in battle but also his partner in leadership. She believes in him even when he doubts himself, pushing him to become the chief he was meant to be.

Astrid’s moments of vulnerability—like when she believes they’ve lost Toothless or when she comforts Hiccup after Stoick’s death—are tender reminders that her strength is multifaceted. She can wield an axe and ride into danger without hesitation, but she can also offer support, empathy, and warmth. Her ability to be both the sword and the shield makes her a rare character in children’s media: a female warrior who is never defined solely by her toughness but by her layered humanity.

In the end, Astrid becomes Hiccup’s wife and the future queen of Berk, not because she fit into a mold, but because she broke it. Her legacy is that of a fighter, a leader, a lover, and a friend—and one of the most empowering female characters in modern animation.

#4: Stoick the Vast

As the formidable chief of Berk and father to Hiccup, Stoick the Vast represents the old ways of the Viking world: strength, tradition, and a deep-seated distrust of dragons. At first glance, Stoick appears to be the embodiment of the warrior ideal—massive, bearded, and gruff, with a commanding presence that commands respect from even the bravest warriors. Yet beneath that armor of pride and toughness lies a deeply loving father trying to do right by his son and his people. Stoick’s journey is not just about leading Berk through threats and chaos, but about reconciling his worldview with the changing tides brought about by Hiccup’s discoveries.

His relationship with Hiccup is one of the emotional anchors of the series. Initially, Stoick is unable to understand his son’s gentler, more inventive nature. He tries to mold Hiccup into a warrior, not realizing that his son’s strengths lie elsewhere. Their early interactions are full of disappointment and miscommunication, yet Stoick’s actions are always driven by love—even if misguided. When he discovers Toothless and the truth about dragons, his worldview is shattered. But to Stoick’s credit, he adapts. He learns, he listens, and he changes, which is no small feat for a character of his stature.

Stoick is also a heroic figure in battle, leading his tribe with bravery and skill. He’s not just muscle—he’s deeply strategic and cares immensely for Berk’s future. One of the most heartbreaking yet powerful moments in the trilogy is his reunion with Valka, Hiccup’s long-lost mother. Their dance in the ice sanctuary, wordless and full of raw emotion, reminds us that even the toughest warriors have tender hearts. His death at the hands of a hypnotized Toothless, orchestrated by Drago, is one of the most devastating moments in the franchise. It serves as a turning point for Hiccup and marks Stoick’s ultimate sacrifice for his family and tribe.

Even after his death, Stoick’s presence looms large. Hiccup constantly recalls his teachings, both in doubt and strength. He carries Stoick’s axe, echoes his words, and eventually fulfills his father’s dream in a way Stoick never imagined—by creating peace, not conquest. Stoick the Vast is not just a warrior chief; he is a man who evolves, learns to forgive, and whose legacy lives on in the heart of his son and the soul of Berk.

#5: Valka

Mysterious, wise, and ethereal, Valka is a revelation when she’s introduced in “How to Train Your Dragon 2.” For years, she was believed to be dead, taken by dragons during a raid. In truth, she had discovered the secret that dragons were not enemies, but majestic and emotional creatures. Rather than returning to Berk, she chose to live among them in the wild, devoting her life to protecting them from human harm. As Hiccup’s mother, Valka’s reentry into the story is both a miracle and a challenge—she brings answers, pain, and the beginning of a new family dynamic.

Valka is unlike anyone else in the franchise. She moves with a grace that’s almost otherworldly, cloaked in flowing dragon-hide garments and commanding a dragon sanctuary hidden in ice. Her bond with the Bewilderbeast and her ability to communicate with dragons even more intimately than Hiccup is mesmerizing. She is both a warrior and a mystic, someone who speaks softly but carries immeasurable wisdom. Valka challenges the gender norms of the Viking world—she’s a fighter, yes, but also a protector, philosopher, and spiritual guide.

Her scenes with Hiccup are emotionally charged, particularly when she realizes how much of herself she sees in him. Their quiet moments, such as when she watches him train dragons or comforts him after Stoick’s death, are filled with unspoken love and admiration. Valka doesn’t try to take back the years lost—she simply supports Hiccup and lets him grow into the leader she knows he can be. Her bond with Stoick, rekindled after two decades apart, is equally moving and shows that love can survive even the longest silence.

Valka’s role in the war against Drago is critical. She brings knowledge, an army of dragons, and a voice of reason to the chaos. She stands her ground, not with brute force, but with presence and strategy. Though she has lived apart from her people for so long, she returns with a renewed sense of purpose. By the final film, she is a key advisor and warrior, ready to defend dragons and Berk alike. Valka is proof that motherhood, strength, and mystery can coexist in a single unforgettable character.

#6: Snotlout Jorgenson

If confidence could power a dragon, Snotlout would never touch the ground. Loud, boastful, and endlessly obsessed with proving his superiority, Snotlout provides much of the comic relief in the franchise. But behind his arrogant swagger is a surprisingly loyal and capable warrior. He rides Hookfang, a Monstrous Nightmare that mirrors his own flashy and unpredictable personality. Together, they’re a fiery duo—literally. While Snotlout often talks a big game, he’s more skilled than he lets on, and his growth across the series shows that he’s more than just comic foil.

Snotlout is obsessed with appearances—whether it’s impressing Astrid, exaggerating his battle tales, or flexing in front of danger. But his antics often mask insecurity. He wants to be respected, admired, and seen as heroic—especially by figures like Stoick, whom he secretly idolizes. His awkward attempts at romance, especially his ongoing crush on Astrid and brief flirtation with Valka, are played for laughs but also reveal his longing for connection and validation.

Despite his ego, Snotlout never abandons his friends. He fights bravely during battles, helps defend Berk, and shows genuine concern when things get serious. His interactions with Hiccup evolve from rivalry to friendship, and he eventually becomes one of the trusted dragon riders. His loyalty to Hookfang is also notable—he treats his dragon like a partner, even when they’re bickering. Over time, Snotlout matures, albeit slowly and with plenty of dramatic flair.

Snotlout’s charm lies in his contradictions. He’s a show-off who’s secretly insecure, a loudmouth who’s surprisingly brave, and a fool who, in critical moments, proves wise. He’s one of the most quotable characters—spouting off absurd one-liners and self-aggrandizing speeches—and while he may never be chief material, he’s definitely the kind of warrior you want on your side when dragons are flying and enemies are closing in.

#7: Fishlegs Ingerman

Gentle, bookish, and endlessly kind, Fishlegs is the heart of the Dragon Riders. He may lack the bravado of Snotlout or the agility of Astrid, but what he brings is irreplaceable: knowledge, empathy, and tactical support. Fishlegs is a dragon encyclopedia, spouting stats and classifications at a moment’s notice. His bond with Meatlug, a lovable Gronckle, is one of the most affectionate human-dragon relationships in the series. Where others see dragons as beasts or tools, Fishlegs sees them as companions worthy of love and respect.

He provides balance to the team, often mediating conflicts and helping devise plans. Fishlegs has a deep emotional intelligence, sensing tension and offering support with sincerity. Though awkward in social settings, especially around girls, he is brave when it counts. His quiet moments of courage, such as volunteering for dangerous missions or shielding his friends, prove his mettle.

In “Race to the Edge,” we see his role expand as a scholar and strategist. He studies dragon behavior, teaches others, and is instrumental in navigating new species and habitats. His dragon Meatlug is a perfect match—both are round, sweet, and unshakeably loyal. Their bond is less about showy heroics and more about comfort, mutual respect, and unwavering care.

Fishlegs shows that being sensitive is not a weakness. His brain and heart work in tandem, allowing him to contribute to the team in ways no one else can. He is the reminder that intelligence, kindness, and quiet courage are just as heroic as swinging a sword or charging into battle.

#8: Ruffnut and Tuffnut Thorston

This chaotic twin duo is one of the most outrageous additions to the dragon-riding team. Ruffnut and Tuffnut bring madness, energy, and a deep (if often dysfunctional) sibling bond that balances the team with much-needed absurdity. They share a dragon, Barf and Belch, a Hideous Zippleback with two heads—one that releases gas, the other that ignites it. Like their dragon, the twins are most effective when they coordinate, though that rarely happens without a fight.

The Thorstons thrive on chaos—setting traps, making explosive jokes, and bickering about everything from hairstyles to who gets to name their sheep. Yet in battle, they’re surprisingly effective. Their unpredictability makes them valuable in combat, often catching enemies off guard. Ruffnut’s feisty independence and Tuffnut’s misguided confidence are sources of nonstop comedy, but they also hide surprising insight. Tuffnut has moments of strange clarity, and Ruffnut has a wild bravery that’s borderline fearless.

In “The Hidden World,” Ruffnut plays a pivotal (and hilarious) role in being captured and inadvertently distracting the enemy, proving that even her missteps have value. Though the twins are often underestimated, their loyalty is unshakable, and their unique brand of anarchy reminds us that sometimes, a little madness is exactly what a team needs.

#9: Eret, Son of Eret

Eret enters the saga as a dragon trapper—charming, cocky, and completely self-interested. But as the story unfolds, he undergoes one of the most satisfying redemptions in the franchise. Initially working for Drago Bludvist, Eret captures dragons for a living, viewing them as little more than commodities. But after witnessing the bond between Hiccup and Toothless, and experiencing firsthand the loyalty of Stormfly, his worldview begins to shift.

He ultimately turns against Drago and joins the Dragon Riders, proving himself in battle and earning the trust of the team. Eret’s charm, humor, and resourcefulness make him a welcome addition to the group. His interactions with the other riders—especially Snotlout and Astrid—are filled with witty banter and subtle camaraderie. Though he never becomes a central figure, Eret’s presence is always felt, especially in crucial moments.

By “The Hidden World,” he’s fully integrated, fighting alongside the riders and protecting dragons as fiercely as anyone. Eret represents the idea that people can change—not because they’re forced to, but because they choose to. His journey from enemy to ally is a testament to the franchise’s message of redemption, understanding, and the power of second chances.

#10: Drago Bludvist

As the primary antagonist of “How to Train Your Dragon 2,” Drago Bludvist brings a terrifying blend of power, fear, and manipulation to the saga. Driven by a belief that dragons must be dominated or destroyed, Drago’s philosophy directly opposes everything Hiccup stands for. He is a warlord in every sense—ruthless, brutal, and singular in purpose. His control over the Bewilderbeast, a titanic alpha dragon, showcases the terrifying consequences of using fear as a weapon.

Drago’s backstory is laced with trauma—his family and people were killed by dragons, which twisted his perspective into one of control rather than coexistence. While his methods are villainous, his motivations are rooted in loss, adding depth to his otherwise monstrous persona. He’s a symbol of what happens when pain is left to fester and turn into vengeance. His presence in the story elevates the stakes, forcing Hiccup to confront not just physical threats, but philosophical ones.

Drago’s fall is satisfying not because he’s defeated in battle, but because he’s rendered obsolete by the strength of empathy, unity, and the dragons’ own choice to defy his control. He serves as a dark mirror to Stoick—a leader hardened by pain rather than guided by wisdom. While not sympathetic, Drago is a cautionary tale of how unchecked trauma can evolve into tyranny, and his downfall reinforces the franchise’s enduring message: true power lies in trust, not fear.

In conclusion, the “How to Train Your Dragon” universe soars on the wings of characters who are layered, evolving, and unforgettable. From the unbreakable bond between Hiccup and Toothless to the wild energy of the twins and the nuanced transformation of figures like Eret and Valka, each character contributes to a legacy of bravery, heart, and wonder. Whether riding into battle or saying a final farewell, these ten characters remain the soul of Berk—and the skies they’ve claimed will always be filled with the echoes of their stories.