How do I find a pet in Skyrim?
As a seasoned adventurer in the world of Skyrim, you’re probably looking for a loyal companion to join you on your quests. Luckily, the game offers various ways to find and acquire a pet. In this article, we’ll explore the different methods to find a pet in Skyrim and what you need to know to make the most out of this experience.
Method 1: Encountering Random Dogs
You can encounter random dogs throughout Skyrim, which you can recruit as an animal companion. These dogs are often found in the wilderness, and you’ll need to aid them by defeating the attacking creatures. To recruit a dog, you’ll need to approach the dog and interact with it. Once you’ve earned the dog’s trust, you can bring it back to a Hearthfire home with children, and they’ll ask to adopt it. This method doesn’t require any additional effort, such as feeding the pet.
| Random Dog Locations | Possible Enemies |
|---|---|
| Forests and meadows | Bears, wolves, bandits |
| Near settlements | Bandits, vampires |
| Near roads | Bandits, merchants |
Method 2: Buying a War Dog from Markarth Stables
Another way to get a pet is to buy a war dog from Markarth Stables. The war dog, Vigilance, can be purchased for 500 gold. To find the stables, head to Markarth and look for the sign that says "Markarth Stables." Once you’ve entered the stables, speak to Banning, the owner, and ask about buying a war dog.
Method 3: Recruiting Meeko
Meeko is a loyal companion who can be found in Fort Dawnguard. To recruit Meeko, you’ll need to side with the Dawnguard and complete the "A Night to Remember" quest. After completing the quest, Meeko will become your loyal companion and will follow you on your adventures.
Method 4: Taming a Death Hound
If you’re a vampire, you can tame a death hound in Fort Dawnguard. To do this, you’ll need to side with the Dawnguard and complete the "A Night to Remember" quest. After completing the quest, you’ll have the opportunity to tame a death hound and make it your companion.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some additional tips and tricks to keep in mind when finding and caring for your pet:
- Feed your pet regularly: Make sure to feed your pet regularly to keep them healthy and happy.
- Keep your pet safe: Keep your pet safe by avoiding areas with high risk of danger, such as dungeons and caves.
- Train your pet: Train your pet to obey commands and perform tasks to make them more useful in combat.
- Consider a pet’s abilities: Consider a pet’s abilities and strengths when choosing a companion. For example, dogs are great at distracting enemies, while war dogs are more aggressive and effective in combat.
Conclusion
Finding a pet in Skyrim can be a rewarding experience, and with these methods, you’ll be well on your way to acquiring a loyal companion. Remember to feed, train, and keep your pet safe, and you’ll be ready for any adventure that comes your way. Whether you choose a random dog, a war dog, Meeko, or a death hound, you’ll have a trusted ally by your side as you explore the world of Skyrim.