Answer:
What scientists might call your pooch.
They're actually great swimmers now, but later they will become excellent hoppers.
You're gonna need a bigger boat to go after one of these toothy hunters.
When I'm metal or wood, I help you get home. When I'm flesh and I'm blood. In the darkness I roam.
A warrior amongs the flowers, He bears a thrusting sword. Able and ready to use, To guard his golden hoard.
I hold two meanings. With one I may be broken, with the other I hold on. What am I?