Losing your loyal canine companion, Dogmeat, in the wasteland is a heartbreaking experience for any Fallout 4 player. But don't despair! This guide will walk you through the various scenarios where you might lose Dogmeat and how to reunite with your furry friend. We'll cover everything from simple fixes to more complex situations, ensuring you're back on the road together in no time.
Understanding Why Dogmeat Might Be Missing
Before we dive into the solutions, let's understand why Dogmeat might disappear. There are several reasons:
- He's been sent to a settlement: If you've assigned Dogmeat to a settlement, he'll be there guarding it. This is often the most common reason for losing track of him.
- He's been injured and is lagging behind: Dogmeat can get injured in combat, and he might fall behind you. Check your surroundings.
- He's glitched out of existence (rare but possible): Sometimes, due to glitches in the game, Dogmeat can disappear entirely. This is less common, but it can happen.
- You've accidentally dismissed him: It's possible to dismiss Dogmeat unintentionally, especially if you're using a controller.
How to Find Dogmeat in Fallout 4
Now, let's tackle how to get your furry friend back:
1. Check Your Settlements
This is the most likely scenario. If you assigned Dogmeat to a settlement, he will be patiently waiting there. Travel to all of your settlements and thoroughly explore each one. He'll usually be near the settlement's defenses or main area. Look for the distinctive Dogmeat model; he's hard to miss!
2. Fast Travel and Backtrack
If you suspect Dogmeat was injured or lagged behind during combat, fast travel to your last known location. Then, carefully retrace your steps. Dogmeat might be injured nearby, or he could be slightly behind your last position.
3. Use the "Wait" Function
Sometimes, Dogmeat might just be a little slower than you. Use the "Wait" function in the game. Wait for a few in-game hours, then resume your journey. This gives Dogmeat a chance to catch up.
4. Check Your Companion Wheel
If you've unintentionally dismissed Dogmeat, check your companion wheel. You should see him listed as an available companion. Select him to bring him back to your side.
5. Reload a Previous Save
If all else fails, reloading a previous save is a reliable solution. Choose a save where you know Dogmeat was still with you. This is a last resort but often effective for resolving glitches.
6. Dealing with Glitches (The Worst-Case Scenario)
If Dogmeat has genuinely glitched out of the game, there are a few extreme measures you might consider (though these aren't guaranteed):
- Console commands (PC only): If you're playing on PC, console commands might be able to summon Dogmeat. However, this requires some technical knowledge and may interfere with the game's integrity.
- Reinstalling the game (last resort): This is a drastic measure, but if all else fails, reinstalling Fallout 4 might fix the issue. Only attempt this as a last resort, as it's time-consuming.
Preventing Future Dogmeat Disappearances
To avoid the heartbreak of losing Dogmeat again, consider these preventative measures:
- Avoid assigning him to settlements unless you're certain you won't need him immediately.
- Pay attention to his health during combat.
- Frequently check your companion wheel.
- Save often.
By following these steps, you should be able to find Dogmeat and continue your adventures together in the Fallout 4 wasteland. Remember, a loyal companion is invaluable in the harsh world of the Commonwealth!
