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Dog Companion
February 19, 2026 at 02:31 PM
Comprehensive article on the dog companion system
The dog companion is a loyal canine friend that accompanies the player throughout Outbound. Originally funded as a Kickstarter stretch goal, the dog has become one of the game's most beloved features. The companion provides both functional gameplay assistance and emotional companionship during exploration.
The dog responds to player commands and can perform several helpful tasks:
Fetch — Send the dog to retrieve nearby resources and bring them back to you or the camper van
Carry — The dog can carry supplies in a small pack, extending the player's effective inventory during on-foot excursions
Return — Command the dog to carry collected items back to the van while you continue exploring
Follow/Stay — Toggle whether the dog follows the player or waits at a designated spot
Multiple in-game skins are available for the dog companion, allowing players to customize its appearance. Skins may change the dog's breed, coat color, and accessories. These cosmetic options have no effect on the dog's functional abilities.
Yes — you can pet the dog. The companion responds to the player's proximity and actions with contextual animations, including tail wagging, playful barks when discovering interesting locations, and settling down to rest when the player parks the van for the night.