How to choose and use a buddy in Pokémon GO

Start with a practical goal

A rare evolution family can be a useful Candy project. Another Pokémon may need a specific buddy activity before evolving. A favorite can also be a perfectly reasonable choice when the goal is enjoying the companion system.

Do not assume one walking distance fits every species. Read the distance indicator and any evolution requirement on the actual Pokémon’s summary.

Hearts and Candy are different progress

Buddy activities build affection and buddy levels, while walking can contribute to Candy and certain tasks. Feeding, playing and other activities have their own limits and conditions. More hearts do not automatically complete every evolution requirement.

Some benefits depend on the buddy being selected or in a particular state. Check the in-app description rather than assuming every unlocked benefit applies to your entire collection permanently.

Use the map and activity prompts

Follow the buddy screen’s current controls to feed or interact. If a task is not progressing, confirm that the correct Pokémon is selected and that you are performing the required activity. A walking task and a battle task are not interchangeable.

Think before swapping

If you are working toward a specific evolution, inspect its conditions before changing buddies. Some requirements care about what is currently selected at the moment of evolution. Preserve progress deliberately instead of experimenting on the only candidate you wanted to keep.

The official Buddy Adventure guide below explains relationship levels and benefits. Interface and device requirements can change, so use the app’s current prompts for optional AR or tracking features.