Why Buy a Dog in Fallout 4? (And Why Not To!) A Wastelander’s Guide
So, you’re wandering the irradiated wasteland of Fallout 4, pockets full of bottle caps and a growing pile of legendaries, and you’re wondering: “Should I buy a dog?” The short answer is: you can’t buy a dog in the traditional sense, but acquiring a canine companion, specifically Dogmeat, is one of the best decisions you can make in the game. He’s free, loyal, and incredibly useful. This isn’t just a feel-good choice; it’s a strategic advantage. But let’s delve into why Dogmeat, and the concept of a dog in Fallout 4, is so beneficial.
The Unwavering Loyalty of Dogmeat: More Than Just a Pet
Forget the superficial idea of buying a pet. Dogmeat isn’t just a furry face to brighten up the apocalypse; he’s a dynamic part of your gameplay. He’s an asset in combat, an invaluable scout, and, yes, a source of much-needed companionship in a bleak world.
Tactical Advantage: A Canine Combatant
Dogmeat might not be a hulking Super Mutant, but he’s surprisingly effective in a fight. He can distract enemies, giving you precious time to reload, reposition, or line up a critical shot. He can pin down weaker foes, leaving them vulnerable. And his barking often alerts you to approaching threats before you even see them. Especially in the early game, Dogmeat is essential for survival. His ability to absorb damage allows you to flank enemies and gain the upper hand. Think of him as a furry, four-legged distraction tank!
Scavenging Superstar: A Nose for Hidden Treasures
One of Dogmeat’s most underrated abilities is his talent for finding loot. He’s not just sniffing for squirrels; he’s sniffing out hidden stashes, secret locations, and valuable items. The “Perception” stat isn’t just for you; Dogmeat effectively gives you a boost in this area. He’ll lead you to containers that you might otherwise miss, uncovering ammo, weapons, and crafting materials that can make a huge difference. Don’t underestimate the power of a good scavenger; it’s essential in the resource-scarce wasteland.
Lone Wanderer? Not Anymore: The Psychological Impact
Fallout 4 can be a lonely game. The constant threat of violence, the crumbling remnants of civilization, and the lack of human connection can take a toll. Having Dogmeat by your side provides a significant psychological boost. He’s a constant, loyal companion who doesn’t judge your choices or question your motives. His presence adds a layer of warmth and levity to the otherwise grim atmosphere. You can pet him, give him commands, and simply enjoy his presence. This might seem insignificant, but it can be incredibly valuable for maintaining your sanity in the wasteland.
Alternatives and Considerations: Is Dogmeat Always the Best Choice?
While Dogmeat is often the preferred companion, it’s important to acknowledge that he’s not the only choice. Fallout 4 offers a variety of companions, each with their own unique skills and personalities. Consider these factors:
- Companion Perks: Each companion offers a unique perk that you unlock by reaching maximum affinity with them. Dogmeat’s perk, “Attack Dog,” grants you a permanent bonus to V.A.T.S. accuracy against enemies he’s biting. This is useful, but other companions offer perks that might be more aligned with your specific build.
- Combat Style: Some companions are better suited for direct combat, while others excel at stealth or support. Dogmeat is primarily a melee fighter, so if you prefer a ranged companion, someone like Piper or McCready might be a better fit.
- Roleplaying: The companions you choose can influence your roleplaying experience. Some companions have strong moral convictions and will disapprove of certain actions, while others are more flexible. Consider how each companion aligns with your desired character alignment.
Ultimately, the best companion is the one that complements your playstyle and enhances your overall experience. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different companions and see who you enjoy traveling with the most.
Dogmeat: A Wasteland Essential
In conclusion, while you don’t technically buy Dogmeat, acquiring him is a cornerstone decision in Fallout 4. His combat support, scavenging skills, and unwavering companionship make him an invaluable asset in the harsh wasteland. He is more than just a pet; he’s a partner, a protector, and a furry reminder that even in the darkest of times, loyalty and friendship can endure.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Dogs in Fallout 4
Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify the role of dogs, specifically Dogmeat, in Fallout 4:
1. How do I find Dogmeat in Fallout 4?
Dogmeat is found at the Red Rocket Truck Stop, located south of Sanctuary. He’s one of the first companions you can encounter in the game. Just follow the main quest line and you’ll stumble upon him!
2. Is Dogmeat essential? Can he die?
No, Dogmeat is not essential. He can be downed in combat, but he will never permanently die. He will recover after the fight, allowing you to heal him with a Stimpack if needed.
3. Can I give Dogmeat armor or weapons?
Yes, you can equip Dogmeat with dog armor and bandanas. These can be found throughout the wasteland or crafted at a crafting station. Dogmeat cannot use traditional weapons.
4. What are Dogmeat’s commands?
You can issue Dogmeat a variety of commands, including:
- Go Here: Tells Dogmeat to go to a specific location.
- Fetch: Tells Dogmeat to interact with a nearby object or enemy.
- Stay: Tells Dogmeat to stay in place.
- Attack: Tells Dogmeat to attack a specific enemy.
5. Does Dogmeat affect my Lone Wanderer perk?
No, Dogmeat does not negate the benefits of the Lone Wanderer perk. This is a common misconception. You can still enjoy the increased damage resistance and carrying capacity while traveling with Dogmeat.
6. Can I have other companions while traveling with Dogmeat?
No, Dogmeat counts as a companion. You cannot have another humanoid companion active at the same time as Dogmeat.
7. How do I dismiss Dogmeat?
You can dismiss Dogmeat by talking to him and selecting the “Go home” dialogue option. He will return to Sanctuary or the last settlement you assigned him to.
8. How do I find Dogmeat again after dismissing him?
Dogmeat will usually be found roaming around Sanctuary (or your assigned settlement). If he’s not immediately visible, try sleeping for a few hours, and he should reappear.
9. Does Dogmeat carry items?
No, Dogmeat cannot carry items in your inventory. He is primarily a combat and scouting companion.
10. Does Dogmeat have a romance option?
No, Dogmeat is a dog. There is no romance option available for Dogmeat.
11. What perks benefit Dogmeat?
There are no specific perks that directly buff Dogmeat, but perks that increase your survivability, such as Toughness and Medic, will indirectly benefit him by keeping you alive longer.
12. Can Dogmeat unlock doors or terminals?
No, Dogmeat cannot unlock doors or terminals. He is limited to combat and scouting abilities.
13. Is there a way to customize Dogmeat’s appearance?
Not in the base game. However, there are mods available on PC and some consoles that allow you to customize Dogmeat’s appearance with different breeds and textures.
14. Does Dogmeat have any unique dialogue?
No, Dogmeat does not have any spoken dialogue. He communicates through barks, whines, and body language.
15. What happens if Dogmeat gets stuck somewhere?
If Dogmeat gets stuck, try fast traveling to a nearby location. This will usually teleport him to your side. If that doesn’t work, try reloading your last save. As a last resort, dismissing him back to Sanctuary will resolve the issue eventually.