I lost my dog in Fallout 4, what should I do? - briefly
If you've lost your dog in Fallout 4, don't panic. Check the area where you last saw it and use the "Call Dog" command to try and locate it.
I lost my dog in Fallout 4, what should I do? - in detail
Losing your loyal canine companion in Fallout 4 can be distressing, but there are several steps you can take to find and recover your pet. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to proceed:
Firstly, it's important to understand that Dogmeat, the game's default canine companion, is designed with AI that allows him to wander off during exploration or combat. This feature ensures a more realistic and immersive gaming experience. However, there are ways to mitigate this issue and ensure you can find Dogmeat if he goes missing.
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Check Recent Locations: If your dog has gone missing, the first step is to retrace your steps. Dogmeat typically lingers in areas where you last interacted with him or left him waiting. Visit the most recent locations you've been to and look for any signs of Dogmeat. He might be exploring the area or waiting for you to catch up.
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Use the Companion App: One of the most effective ways to locate your missing canine companion is by using the Pip-Boy's Companion App. Open your Pip-Boy and navigate to the "Companions" section. Here, you should see an option to track Dogmeat. Select this option, and your Pip-Boy will display a marker indicating his current location. Follow the marker to reunite with your pet.
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Fast Travel: If you're unable to find Dogmeat by retracing your steps or using the Companion App, consider fast traveling to known settlements or safe houses where he might have returned to. Dogmeat is programmed to seek shelter in familiar and safe locations if he gets lost. Try fast traveling to places like Sanctuary Hills, Red Rocket Truck Stop, or other settlements you've established.
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Use the Whistle: Fallout 4 provides a whistle mechanic that allows you to call Dogmeat from anywhere in the game world. Press the appropriate button on your controller (usually the D-pad down for consoles and 'Z' key for PC) to emit a whistling sound. Dogmeat should respond to this signal, making it easier for you to locate him.
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Check Bodies of Water: In some cases, Dogmeat might wander off into bodies of water like rivers or lakes. If you suspect he's near water, approach the edge and use the whistle to call him out. He should respond and emerge from the water, allowing you to reunite with him.
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Avoid Hostile Areas: It's crucial to note that Dogmeat might venture into hostile areas or engage enemies on his own. If you find yourself in a combat situation without your companion, it could mean he's nearby but not visible due to the chaos of battle. Try to clear the area and use the whistle to call him out.
By following these steps, you should be able to locate and recover your missing canine companion in Fallout 4. Remember that patience and persistence are key when searching for Dogmeat, as his AI-driven behavior can sometimes lead him into unexpected areas of the game world.