In The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim, “taming” dragons is far more complex than domesticating a horse. Depending on your progression and objectives, here are the primary methods to achieve this feat.

Methods and Implementation
I. Temporary Domination: Riding and Commanding (Core Vanilla Mechanics)
This is the game’s primary “taming” system, allowing temporary dragon riding and combat assistance.
Requirements:
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Dragonborn DLC Installation: This feature is exclusive to the DLC.
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Master the Bend Will Shout: Learn all three words of this crucial dragon-taming shout:
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First Word: Automatically acquired early in the Dragonborn main quest.
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Second & Third Words: Located at the Stone of Knowledge and near Herman’s Slave Camp on Solstheim.
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Procedure:
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Locate a Dragon: Any randomly spawned wild dragon will suffice.
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Weaken the Beast: Reduce its health below 50% – a necessary precondition.
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Execute the Shout: Use the complete Bend Will shout while targeting the dragon.
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Mount Up: Upon success, the dragon lands. Approach and press the interaction key to mount.
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Command Your Steed: While mounted, you can:
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Order attacks against enemies
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Direct flight to map markers
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Enjoy aerial sightseeing across Skyrim
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Important Notes:
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Temporary Control: Effects last only 2-4 minutes before the dragon discards you, potentially becoming hostile again.
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Limited Targets: Story-critical dragons (e.g., Alduin, Sahrotaar) and certain legendary dragons remain untamable.
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Cooldown Period: The Bend Will shout has a significant recharge time.
II. Summoned Ally: Odahviing
A reliable dragon-companion system acquired through main quest progression.
Requirements: Complete the “Throat of the World” main quest.
Implementation:
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Learn the “Call Odahviing” shout
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Use outdoors to summon the ancient dragon Odahviing as a temporary combat ally
Characteristics:
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Functions more as a powerful conjuration than true taming
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Odahviing proves exceptionally powerful in combat
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Features a 5-minute cooldown period
III. Permanent Companionship: MOD Solutions
For players seeking permanent, unbreakable dragon bonds, modding communities provide solutions.
Recommended MODs:
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Diverse Dragons Collection: Expands tamable dragon varieties
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Tame The Beasts of Skyrim: Comprehensive creature-taming system including dragons
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Dragonborn Gallery: Often incorporates permanent dragon-taming mechanics
Implementation:
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Follow MOD-specific instructions to acquire special items (e.g., “Dragon Flute”) or spells
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Use these tools to permanently tame dragons as followers
Cautions:
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Potential mod conflicts or stability issues
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Carefully review installation requirements and compatibility notes
Master-Level Dragon Taming Techniques
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Target Selection: Practice on common Ancient Dragons or Blood Dragons before attempting rarer variants
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Tactical Preparation: Use Frost Breath or Ice Storm to slow dragon movement for easier targeting
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Safety First: Clear surrounding areas of giants or bandits before attempting taming
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Embrace the Experience: Even temporary dragon flights offer unparalleled views of Skyrim’s landscapes
Final Recommendation: For most players, the vanilla Bend Will mechanics provide the most authentic and rewarding experience. Those seeking permanent dragon companions should explore the modding community.
Now, Dragonborn – master the Words of Power! The skies of Skyrim await their true master.

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