How to Know When a Wolf is Tamed in Valheim: A Comprehensive Guide

Knowing when a wolf is truly tamed in the harsh Viking world of Valheim can be the difference between a loyal companion and a wasted pile of raw meat. The process involves careful observation, patience, and a little bit of Viking know-how. So, how do you know when a wolf is tamed in Valheim? The most reliable indicator is the disappearance of the yellow hearts that appear above a wolf during the taming process. Once these hearts vanish, and the wolf has been observed eating, it is officially tamed. Additionally, the hover text when you look at the wolf will also change to indicate that it is tamed. No longer will the hover text just be “Wolf” but now it will read “Tamed Wolf”.

Understanding the Taming Process

Before we delve into the specifics, it’s crucial to understand the taming process itself. Taming a wolf is a multi-stage procedure:

Stage 1: Initial Feeding

To initiate the taming, you must drop raw meat near a wolf. This can include boar meat, deer meat, or neck tails (and presumably lox meat). Wolves will not eat wolf meat, so make sure you do not accidentally drop any of that near the wolf you are trying to tame. The wolf will then approach the meat and eat it. Be careful not to get too close to the wolf or it will become startled. It is best to throw the meat then retreat a few steps.

Stage 2: Observing Yellow Hearts

Once a wolf starts consuming the dropped meat, it signifies the beginning of the taming process. At this point, yellow hearts will begin to float above the wolf. These hearts are a clear visual indicator that taming is underway.

Stage 3: The Hover Text

As the taming process progresses, the wolf’s hover text will also start to reflect the progress. It will begin to show a percentage during taming. The taming requires 600 successful ticks (30 minutes) of the wolf eating.

Stage 4: Final Confirmation

The final step is that the yellow hearts disappear. Additionally, the wolf will have the hover text “Tamed Wolf” when you look at it, confirming it has successfully been tamed. You can now be sure that the wolf is yours, and will be a loyal companion.

Key Taming Considerations

• Food: Wolves require a steady supply of food during the taming process. Ensure you have enough raw meat to keep them satisfied.
• Time: The taming process takes around 30 minutes, provided the wolf consistently has access to food.
• Nighttime vs. Daytime: Night-spawned wolves must be initially fed during the night. If you try to tame a night-spawned wolf during the day, it may despawn. If it’s daytime, trap the wolf and wait nearby to prevent it from despawning so you can tame it at night.
• Safe Distance: Be mindful of not getting too close and startling the wolf, especially during the initial taming phase, as the wolf may run away and/or not eat the meat.
• Pathfinding: If the wolf can not access the meat, it will not eat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

To further enrich your understanding, here are 15 Frequently Asked Questions regarding wolf taming in Valheim:

1. How long does it take for a wolf to tame in Valheim?

Taming a wolf takes roughly 30 minutes of continuous feeding, provided the wolf has access to enough food.

2. How do I check taming status?

Initially, you’ll see yellow hearts above the wolf and a percentage in the hover text. The final check is when the hearts disappear and the hover text reads “Tamed Wolf”.

3. What happens if I don’t feed a tamed wolf?

If a tamed wolf is not fed, it will eventually starve to death, as all tamed animals will in Valheim. Keep a consistent supply of raw meat available for them.

4. Can tamed wolves breed?

Yes, wolves can breed if they are happy, well-fed, and there is another wolf within 3 meters, with no more than 4 wolves within 10 meters. They must be fed raw meat (not wolf meat).

5. What do tamed wolves eat?

Tamed wolves eat raw meat, including boar meat, deer meat, and neck tails, and presumably lox meat. Remember that they will not eat wolf meat.

6. Can wolves go through portals?

No, normally wolves cannot go through portals. However, a BepInEx plugin allows you to teleport your wolves with you if set to follow, or allows all tamed animals to follow when sneaking.

7. Do wolves despawn while taming?

Yes, night-spawned wolves may despawn completely during the day if you do not start taming during the night. This is why it’s crucial to initiate taming during the night for these wolves, or trap them to prevent them from despawning.

8. Can tamed wolves fight?

Yes, tamed wolves can fight alongside the player and will also defend your base.

9. Do tamed wolves attack other wolves or players?

Tamed wolves will not attack other tamed wolves or players, even if you attack another tamed wolf.

10. Can wolves be killed by collision damage?

Yes, wolves can die from collision damage, for example, if placed on a boat. Avoid placing them in areas where collision might occur.

11. What’s the best weapon against wolves?

A fully upgraded Iron sword is a good option for staggering a wolf in one hit. If you’re facing multiple wolves, use weapons with a wide range, like the two-handed club, an atgeir, or a battleaxe.

12. Why is my wolf not eating during taming?

Ensure that the wolf is a night-spawned wolf and is being fed at night, and is able to access the meat you have given it. Also, ensure it’s a valid meat type (not wolf meat). You must also be in the nearby area in case it is startled and attempts to despawn.

13. Can I use deer meat to tame wolves?

Yes, deer meat is a valid food source for taming wolves.

14. Can I tame a dragon in Valheim?

You can tame a drake, by finding a dragon egg then placing it on a campfire.

15. Can tamed animals starve?

Yes, tamed animals will starve to death if not fed regularly. It’s important to keep them well-fed to ensure their survival.

Conclusion

Taming a wolf in Valheim is a rewarding endeavor, transforming a dangerous foe into a loyal ally. By paying close attention to the visual cues, especially the yellow hearts, and understanding the stages of the taming process, you can successfully add a valuable companion to your Viking adventures. Remember to keep them well-fed, and they will faithfully fight by your side. Happy taming, Vikings!