Introduction
Dogs play an important role in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. Throughout Hyrule, Link can find friendly dogs at various stables that he can befriend. Befriending dogs in the game provides several benefits, such as rewards and helping Link on his quest. Dogs will follow and assist Link once he has earned their trust.
There are dogs of several different breeds scattered across Hyrule that Link can interact with. Most are located at major stables like the Lakeside Stable, Foothill Stable, and East Post Ruins. By spending time with the dogs, feeding them, and playing with them, Link can increase his friendship level and unlock abilities. Dogs can help find hidden treasures, aid in combat, and fast travel around the map.
Identify Dogs
There are several different breeds of dogs that can be found throughout Hyrule in Tears of the Kingdom. Players should keep an eye out for dogs as they explore the overworld, as the dogs can often be found near stables, towns, and other settlements.
Some of the dog breeds to look out for include:
- Black Hylian Retriever – These dogs have black fur and floppy ears. They are one of the most common breeds.
- White Hylian Retriever – Similar to the black retrievers but with white fur instead.
- Hylian Terrier – Smaller dogs with wiry hair and perky ears.
- Husky – Larger dogs with thick, fluffy coats and pointed ears.
- Hunting Hound – These muscular, short-haired dogs are used for hunting and have great stamina.
Players should look near cooking pots, tables, and food sources to find dogs waiting eagerly for scraps. Stables often have one or two breeds that live there permanently. If you spot a dog, approach slowly and see if you can interact with it to start building up your friendship!
Approach Cautiously
When first seeing a stray dog in Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, it’s important to approach them cautiously and slowly gain their trust. Make slow movements and avoid direct eye contact, as dogs may see this as threatening. Crouch down to their level, turn your body sideways, and hold out your hand to allow them to sniff you. Speak in a calm, quiet voice to reassure them. Move at the dog’s pace and let them come to you. Be patient as some dogs may take more time to warm up to strangers. Avoid sudden movements or grabbing at the dog, as this can startle them. Overall, remain calm and move with care – this will signal to the dog you’re not a threat.
As this article on WikiHow explains, “Move slowly, remain calm, and use a soothing voice—doing so should keep you from scaring the dog, and thus help keep you safe too.” Gaining a stray dog’s trust takes time, so don’t rush the process. Let the dog smell you and initiate contact when they feel ready. With a patient, gentle approach, you can befriend even the most cautious canines in Zelda!
Offer Treats
Carrying dog treats is an easy way to gain a dog’s interest and build trust. Choose high-value treats like small pieces of cooked meat or cheese, or purchase commercially available training treats formulated just for dogs. Avoid chocolate, cooked bones, raisins, grapes, onions, or anything with artificial sweeteners, as these can be toxic to dogs.
When you first encounter a stray dog, don’t rush up to it. Instead, remain a reasonable distance away and toss a couple treats on the ground near the dog. This allows the dog to approach you and associate you with something positive. Continue tossing treats intermittently to reward any steps the dog takes in your direction as it builds confidence. According to experts, this is an effective technique for befriending cautious strays (https://www.petproject.co.in/learn/how-to-befriend-a-stray-dog/). Eventually, you can offer a treat directly from your hand once the dog seems comfortable coming close to you.
Petting Dogs
When first meeting a new dog, it’s important to let them sniff you before attempting to pet them. Extend your hand slowly and let the dog come to you and smell your hand. This allows them to gather your scent and become more comfortable with you. Avoid putting your hand directly over the dog’s head, as this can seem threatening.
According to the AKC, the best place to start petting is “under the dog’s chin, on the chest, or along the side.” https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/advice/how-to-safely-greet-a-strange-dog/ Gently petting under the chin, on the chest, or sides can help relax dogs when they first meet you. Avoid petting directly on top of the head.
It’s important to read the dog’s body language before and during petting. Signs a dog wants to be pet include: leaning into your hand, pushing their head into your hand, remaining relaxed, loose body posture, and a gently wagging tail. Signs a dog is uncomfortable include: stiffening body, shifting position away, licking lips, yawning, growling, freezing, and tail tucked between legs. If a dog shows uncomfortable signals, stop petting and give them space.
Going on Walks
Once you’ve gained a bit of a dog’s trust, you can equip the Dog Walking Leash item and ask the dog to go on walks with you. When the walk begins, it’s important to let the dog take the lead and follow where it wants to go. Trying to pull the dog or force it to go a certain way will cause the walk to end prematurely.
Following the dog’s lead during walks allows you to discover new areas, find hidden treasure chests, and further strengthen your bond. According to https://www.thegamer.com/the-legend-of-zelda-tears-of-the-kingdom-dog-friendship-guide/, the longer you can keep the walk going by sticking close to the dog, the more your friendship will grow. Once the walk ends, you’ll also be rewarded with useful items.
Playing Fetch
Playing fetch is a great way to bond and have fun with your dog. There are several things to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable game of fetch.
First, find a good fetch toy that is appropriate for your dog’s size and chewing habits. Tennis balls, frisbees, ropes, and rubber toys are common options. Select a toy your dog can pick up and carry easily. The Chuckit! Kick Fetch Dog Toy is a popular choice.
Use proper throwing technique to avoid straining your arm. Grip the toy at one end and use a natural throwing motion. Release the toy with a flicking motion to give it a spinning flight. Avoid throwing directly overhead, which can lead to shoulder injuries. Throw at a low angle instead.
Praise your dog enthusiastically when they retrieve the toy. Say “Good boy/girl!” and offer treats periodically to reinforce the positive behavior. This will keep your dog excited about continuing to fetch.
Take breaks periodically so your dog does not get overexerted. And be sure to watch for signs your dog may be getting bored or tired of the game. Fetch should be an enjoyable bonding experience for both owner and dog.
Grooming Dogs
Grooming is an important part of caring for a dog’s health and wellbeing. Proper grooming involves regularly brushing, bathing, and trimming a dog’s nails.
Brushing helps remove loose hair and distribute the dog’s natural oils throughout their coat, leaving it looking shiny and clean. Use a slicker brush for short haired breeds like Labs, or a pin brush for long haired dogs like Goldens (Dog Grooming and Style Guide). Always brush in the direction of hair growth and be gentle around sensitive areas.
Dogs should be bathed every few months using a mild dog shampoo and lukewarm water (ASPCA). Avoid getting water in their ears and dry their coat thoroughly to prevent chill. Brush before and after bathing to prevent matting.
Trim dogs’ nails regularly to keep them from cracking or splitting. Use proper nail clippers suited for dogs and trim only the tip, avoiding the pink quick inside to prevent bleeding or pain. Praise and reward your dog during grooming to create a positive experience.
Feeding Dogs
Properly feeding dogs is an important part of building a bond and keeping them healthy. When looking for food to feed a dog, try to find high-quality dog food that is designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition for dogs (cite https://danielleventure.com/2021/06/16/feeding-stray-dogs/). Dog food can often be found at pet supply stores or grocery stores. Avoid feeding dogs people food, which lacks the vitamins and minerals dogs need.
When feeding a dog, place the food bowl on the ground and allow the dog to approach it. Do not forcefully put the food near the dog’s face. Let them eat at their own pace. Provide fresh, clean water as well. Avoid crowding around the dog as they eat, as this may make them feel anxious or defensive over the food. Feeding dogs twice a day, such as morning and evening, can help establish a routine.
Make sure to provide age-appropriate food for puppies or senior dogs. Follow portion guidelines on the dog food packaging based on the dog’s weight and activity level. Do not overfeed dogs, as obesity can cause health problems. With proper nutrition and care, feeding dogs can help them live long and healthy lives (cite https://vosd.in/feeding-stray-dogs-how-to-be-a-responsible-feeder/).
Maxing Friendship
Maxing out your friendship level with dogs in Tears of the Kingdom unlocks special abilities and gear rewards. According to TheGamer, friendship levels go up to 5 hearts. The more you interact with a dog through feeding, petting, and playing, the higher the friendship level will become.
At the maximum 5 heart friendship level, dogs will start bringing you gifts. These can include useful items like arrows or food. Some dogs will even bring special dog masks or gear. For example, the dog at Lakeside Stable rewards the Capy Mask for max friendship. Equipping this mask allows Link to dig up buried treasure.
Leveling up friendship can also teach dogs new abilities. According to CulturedVultures, dogs learn to lead Link to treasure chests at higher friendship levels. Fully befriending dogs makes exploration and rewards much easier in Tears of the Kingdom.