(Updated for 5.4!)

Note: 5.4 is out and there has been some nerfs (eg Anubisath Idol) and some pet tamers seemed buffed. But never fear, it’s still quite achievable. While there is now a greater chance you’ll be unlucky and lose a fight or two, the overall strategy is still quite sound and reliable.

I know there’s a few guides out there detailing how to level pets quickly, and to be honest, this one is no different ; just that it’s something I worked out myself and wanted to share. The prerequisite is just that you can get to the Pandaren tamers, and you have the Safari Hat. Though you’ll get close even without the hat.

What I tried to do was find a small number of pets required, rather than needing two different level 25’s for each fight. So without further ado…

1. Aki in Valley of Eternal Blossoms. (Level 1-11)

Pets: Anubisath Idol, Shrine Fly, leveller

Note! Aki moved in 5.4 ; look for the pet paw on the world map.

Start with the Idol, put out sandstorm and switch to the leveller for a round. The Idol comes close to soloing the fights, though the Shrine Fly assures your win.

2. Nishi in Valley of Four Winds. (Level 11-16)

Pets: Emperor Crab, Lil’ XT, leveller

Start with the crab and kill the two elementals. Put out renewing mists when the beast starts and switch to leveller for a round. Finish off with Lil’ XT.

3. Yon in Kun-Lai Summit. (Level 16-19)

Pets: Anubisath Idol, Lil’ XT, leveller

The Idol can pretty much take care of this fight, but Lil’ XT is your guarantee. Pet is now 16 so shouldn’t get one-shot; swap in for a round when safe.

4. Hyuna in The Jade Forest. (Level 19-22)

Pets: Nether Faerie Dragon, Lil’ XT, leveller

Start with Dragon, moonfire, arcane blast. Switch to Lil'XT when the beast comes out. Switch in leveller for a round on last enemy.

5. Mo'ruk in Krasarang WIlds. (Level 22-23)

Pets: Lil’ XT, Nether Faerie Dragon, leveller

Start with Lil’ XT. Swap to leveller for a round after the beast is dead. Switch to Dragon and moonfire. Exchange life when health is low, otherwise arcane blast.

6. Shu in Dreadwastes. (Level 23-25)

Pets: Shrine Fly, Emperor Crab, leveller

Start with Fly. Switch to leveller for a round when dead. Finish off with Crab.

Bonus. Zusshi in Townlong Steppes

Pets: Emperor Crab, Shrine Fly, leveller

(Good news! In 5.4, looks like the mob that patrols past this tamer has been removed!)

This time, use snap with the crab in order to do good damage to the critter. Switch to leveller after dropping renewing mists on crab. Finish off with Fly.

Done! If you are lucky enough to get a [Pet Treat] in your reward bags, you can achieve this in even less fights!