How to Complete Stray Dogs in Escape From Tarkov

Being employed by the enigmatic trader, Jaeger, offers numerous chances to navigate through different maps, utilize top-of-the-line weapons, and earn exceptional rewards by fulfilling your duties. Here’s a guide to completing the Stray Dogs quest in Escape From Tarkov.

Tips for Completing the Stray Dogs Quest in Escape From Tarkov

In Escape From Tarkov, the side quest Stray Dogs requires you to confront three troublesome newcomers who have turned against their USEC affiliations and are causing chaos in different areas of the zone. Jaeger, a resident of Tarkov, attempted to negotiate with them but was met with violence. Now, he seeks your assistance in eliminating these three targets.

Knight
Big Pipe
Birdeye

These three adversaries in Escape From Tarkov are classified as boss-type enemies, making them more formidable than the average Scav. They come prepared for battle, employ diverse strategies, and are backed by a multitude of bodyguards for combat support.

To complete your mission, you will need to locate them in four different zones: Customs, Lighthouse, Shoreline, and Woods. They can appear at any point within these regions.

Strategies for Defeating Knight, Big Pipe, and Birdeye

Escape From Tarkov Scav on Customs — Screenshot by Prima Games

The main focus of your attack should be on Knight, the leader of the “Goon Squad.”He is easily identifiable by his skull-face mask and dreadlocks. Knight is known for wielding submachine guns and assault rifles, making him a formidable opponent in close-range combat. It is advisable to maintain a safe distance when engaging with him.

The strategy for dealing with the three Goons may vary depending on the map where you encounter them. For instance, on Woods, there is a higher chance of being detected early, which may require a more defensive approach.

Despite the different maps, the main objective remains the same: to locate and neutralize the enemy. Your first priority should be to locate Knight and his Goon Squad and take them out swiftly. It is advisable to use grenades and move from cover to cover. Once Knight and his team have been dealt with, you can shift your focus to taking down Birdeye, who uses a sniper rifle and will constantly change positions while the other two distract you.

The first target should be Big Pipe, even though Knight and Birdeye are also formidable foes. Big Pipe is equipped with explosive weapons, similar to grenade launchers in the game, so be sure to watch for his pirate-themed gear and use an entire magazine to defeat him.

Benefits of Rescuing Stray Dogs

Upon finishing Stray Dogs in Escape From Tarkov, you will receive the following rewards:

35,000 EXP
Jaeger Rep +0.02
250,000 Rubles
1x SICC Organizational Pouch
1x SWORD International Mk-18. 338 LM Marksman Rifle
2x MK-18. 338 LM 10-Round Magazine
20 times 338 Lapua Magnum FMJ

The experience gained is quite impressive, the amount of money earned is even better, and the rifle received is top-tier. All in all, it’s an amazing reward for a side quest that simply requires you to defeat three boss-type enemies, which you would probably encounter in your regular fights anyway!

In order to properly store your new rifle, magazines, and ammunition, it is recommended that you increase your stash space to accommodate additional storage slots.