Can You Have a Dog and Companion in Skyrim? The Definitive Guide

Yes, you can have both a dog and a human(or humanoid) companion in Skyrim, but it requires a bit of savvy gameplay. Skyrim limits you to one official “follower” at a time. However, dogs are treated differently within the game’s mechanics. You can have a dog follower simultaneously with your main companion. This allows you to adventure across the snowy peaks and dragon-infested lands with a trusty canine at your side, alongside your chosen hero. This offers additional combat support, unique role-playing opportunities, and extra carrying capacity.

Companions and Dogs: Understanding the Skyrim System

The Skyrim companion system is designed to prevent you from amassing an overwhelming army. The game is balanced around the idea of a lone Dragonborn facing challenges with the help of, at most, one trusted ally. This encourages strategic combat and resource management. However, dogs are seen as more of a supportive creature than a full-fledged follower and are usually not considered to be using the only follower slot.

Dogs in Skyrim do not count towards the typical follower limit. They are essentially treated as pets or “animal followers.” This is because they typically have limited abilities compared to human companions. Their primary purpose is to attack enemies and provide a distraction. They have also been coded differently.

How to Get a Dog Companion

There are several ways to acquire a canine companion in Skyrim:

• Acquiring Barbas: Barbas, the Daedric dog associated with Clavicus Vile, is encountered at the beginning of the quest “A Daedra’s Best Friend.” He will follow you even if you already have another companion. However, keeping Barbas permanently locks you out of completing the quest normally. This prevents obtaining the Rueful Axe or the Masque of Clavicus Vile. The best option is to use him only temporarily.

• Purchasing a War Dog: You can purchase a War Dog from the stables outside Markarth, Windhelm, or Riften. These dogs will fight alongside you and will not prevent you from also having a human companion. These war dogs make an excellent permanent addition to your travelling group.

• Finding Stray Dogs: On occasion, you may encounter a stray dog in the wilderness. If you have a high enough disposition with the dog (often achieved by simply being nearby and not harming it), it may begin to follow you.

Tips for Managing Multiple Companions

Traveling with both a dog and a standard companion can present some tactical advantages, but also requires some careful management:

• Combat Synergy: Coordinate your attacks and utilize your companions’ strengths. For example, a ranged companion can provide cover fire while your dog distracts enemies in melee.
• Inventory Management: Remember that your dog can carry items, alleviating some of your encumbrance. Consider giving your dog armor if it’s available to keep it alive longer.
• Companion Commands: Learn to use companion commands effectively. Tell your follower to engage specific targets, hold their position, or use a specific strategy.
• Beware of Friendly Fire: Be cautious with area-of-effect spells or weapons, as you could inadvertently harm your companions.
• Consider Their Strengths and Weaknesses: Dogs are useful in close combat and can distract enemies. Humanoid companions, on the other hand, can use a variety of weapons and spells.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to help you manage your furry and human companions effectively:

1. What happens if my dog companion dies?

If your dog companion dies in combat, it is permanently dead (unless you use console commands on PC to resurrect it). Be mindful of their health and try to keep them out of harm’s way. War Dogs can be particularly vulnerable due to their lower health compared to some human companions.

2. Can I equip my dog with armor or weapons?

No, you cannot equip standard armor or weapons on dogs in the base game. Some mods, however, add this functionality.

3. Can my dog carry items for me?

Yes, dogs can carry a limited amount of items, similar to human companions. Make use of this to alleviate your encumbrance. This can be especially useful for hauling heavy crafting materials.

4. Does having a dog companion affect my stealth?

Yes, it can. Dogs are not as stealthy as human companions. Their barking and movements can alert enemies to your presence. Consider leaving your dog behind if you need to be particularly stealthy.

5. How do I dismiss a dog companion?

You can dismiss a War Dog by simply talking to it and telling it to go home. It will return to the stable where you originally purchased it. Barbas will eventually leave you when the quest “A Daedra’s Best Friend” is completed.

6. Can I have more than one dog companion?

Without mods, no. Skyrim’s mechanics limit you to one dog companion at a time, in addition to your standard companion.

7. Is there a level cap for dog companions?

No, there is no level cap for dog companions. Their stats will increase as you level up, making them more effective in combat.

8. Can I train my dog companion?

Unfortunately, there’s no way to actively train a dog companion. Its skills develop as it participates in combat and gains experience.

9. Do dog companions trigger traps?

Yes, dogs can trigger traps, potentially harming themselves and alerting enemies. Be careful when traversing dungeons and other areas with traps.

10. Can my dog be affected by diseases?

No, dog companions are not susceptible to diseases in Skyrim.

11. Can I use console commands to get multiple dog companions?

Yes, on PC you can use console commands to bypass the game’s limitations and have multiple dog companions. However, this can lead to glitches and instability. Use at your own risk.

12. Are there any dog-specific perks or abilities?

No, there are no dog-specific perks or abilities in the base game.

13. Does having a dog companion affect my relationship with other followers?

No, having a dog companion does not affect your relationship with other followers. They will behave as normal, regardless of the presence of a dog.

14. What are the best mods for improving dog companions?

There are several mods that enhance the dog companion experience, including those that add armor, new abilities, and improved AI. Popular options include “Convenient Horses” and “Amazing Follower Tweaks”. Search the Skyrim Nexus for the mods that best suit your playstyle.

15. Can I use the “Become Ethereal” shout to protect my dog?

Yes, the “Become Ethereal” shout will make you and your dog invulnerable for a short period of time, protecting them from damage. This can be a useful tactic in particularly difficult battles. This shout is invaluable when dealing with powerful dragons and enemies.

Having a dog and a companion at your side in Skyrim adds a layer of depth to the experience. Use your companions wisely and remember to care for your faithful canine friend. Enjoy your adventures in Skyrim with your loyal team!