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There are many great companions available inFallout 4, but none so seemingly universally loved as Dogmeat, the lovable German shepherd you find early in the game at an abandoned Red Rocket truck stop. He’s initially known only as Dog, but soon you learn his true name, and a friendship blossoms, as well asa truly unique weapon you can use to your advantage.
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If you choose, Dogmeat can become a loyal companion throughout the entire game. Here, we’re going to look into how to use Dogmeat to his full potential, including a bit about his in-game history, what his perks and abilities are, and strategies to get the most out of your canine companion.
Who Is Dogmeat?
Dogmeat is a character you can meet early in Fallout 4 at a Red Rocket truck stop. He lives in the Commonwealth in 2287, when the Sole Survivor resurfaces from Vault 111. He is initially called Dog when you meet him, but either Mama Murphy will reveal his true name during theWhen Freedom Callsquest or Nick Valentine will reveal it duringGetting a Clue.
According to Dogmeat’s lore, he accompanied both Nick Valentine and Preston Garvey during the time that the Sole Survivor was cryogenically frozen,going on his own interesting side quests.Mama Murphy describes him as “his own man,” meaning he has no owner.He does, however, unconditionally love the Sole Survivor and is not influenced negatively by your actions, no matter how heinous.
Dogmeat’s Real-Life Inspiration
Dogmeat was inspired by and modeled after developers Joel and Michelle Burgess’s female German shepherd River.She provided the “voice” for Dogmeat and directly influenced the character’s attitude and mannerisms.
River passed in June 2021,andJoel Burgess posted a Twitter threadexplaining her involvement in the game’s development. Dogmeat was designed to be a companion first and a combat ally second, he said, and so River was used for the model because she was friendlier than professional or police-trained German shepherds.
Dogmeat’s ability to fetch items and bring them to the Sole Survivor was influenced by River’s habit of retrieving large objects for the development team. Something nice to think about is thatRiver lives on through Dogmeat,literally, because his soulful brown eyes are exact replications of hers.
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Where To Find Dogmeat
When you approach the Red Rocket truck stop east of Sanctuary Hills(one of many settlements you may establish),an objective will appear in the Miscellaneous section of your quest log.It will tell you to “Greet the dog,” and sure enough there’s a dog hanging out at the truck stop. Interact with Dogmeat and you then have the option to take him along on your adventures.
What Can Dogmeat Do?
The Sole Survivor can command Dogmeat tostay, follow, go to a certain location, or fetch a certain item, just like with all companions. But he does have other abilities that are crucial in combat and when exploring the Commonwealth.
Dogmeat’s Combat Abilities
Your new companion is great at stalling enemies while in combat.He can grab onto enemies and hold them still for you to take them out with an accuracy bonus in VATS, all while causing a bit of damage in the process.Additionally,Dogmeat has a special Perk called Attack Dog,which allows him to do greater damage to enemies while biting.
He also has a finishing move if he’s engaged with an enemy with low enough health.He will knock the enemy over and deliver a killing bite to the neck.
Dogmeat’s Adventuring Abilities
As for his abilities as a companion,Dogmeat can carry up to 150lbs.He can also be decked out in equipment like goggles, bandanas, and armor. These don’t provide any extra protection, and they do add weight, but they look super cute.
Dogmeat can also follow a man’s scent for miles,as is demonstrated in the quest Reunions, when he has to sniff out Kellogg.He will also occasionally find things on his own without being prompted.A message will appear stating “Dogmeat has found something” if he’s discovered items, or “Dogmeat has found an enemy” if there’s a threat nearby.
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How To Use Dogmeat To His Full Potential
Using Dogmeat to his full potential is simple, becausethere are things he will do automatically, such as stalling enemies or finding items.But, sometimes it’s helpful to devise a strategy around Dogmeat’s abilities.
For instance,he has the highest stealth in comparison to all other companions,so you’re able to send him on ahead of you to scout out an area and detect enemies using the command function.
What Dogmeat is best used for:
Overall, Dogmeat is a great companion for any gamer no matter your play style, and he can be used beneficially towards a goal or just as a friend to accompany you through the dangers of the Commonwealth.
