How do I fix the "horse bonding reset" bug?

The ''horse bonding reset'' bug in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a frustrating issue where your horse''s bonding level suddenly drops, resetting progress you''ve made with your equine companion. Bonding levels are crucial in the game, as they unlock abilities like increased stamina, better handling, and special maneuvers such as rearing or drifting. This bug can occur due to game glitches, save file corruption, or improper handling of the horse during gameplay. Fortunately, there are several ways to address this issue and prevent it from recurring.\n\nFirst, ensure you are properly saving your game progress. The bug often occurs when players rely solely on autosaves, which can sometimes fail to record bonding progress. After reaching a new bonding level with your horse, manually save your game by opening the pause menu, selecting ''Story,'' and then ''Save Game.'' This creates a reliable checkpoint for your horse''s bonding status. If the bug occurs, reloading this manual save can restore your progress.\n\nAnother common cause of the bonding reset is switching horses too frequently. If you temporarily use a different horse, such as a stolen or wild one, the game may fail to recognize your primary horse''s bonding level when you return to it. To avoid this, always ensure your primary horse is stabled or nearby before using another mount. If you must switch horses, manually save your game beforehand and check your horse''s bonding level after switching back.\n\nIf the bug persists, try reloading an earlier save file. Open the pause menu, select ''Story,'' then ''Load Game,'' and choose a save from before the bonding reset occurred. This can restore your horse''s bonding level and prevent further issues. Additionally, avoid using mods or third-party tools that alter game files, as these can sometimes trigger bugs like the bonding reset.\n\nTo rebuild bonding quickly if the reset occurs, focus on activities that increase your horse''s trust. Spend time brushing, feeding, and calming your horse. Use items like hay, carrots, or sugar cubes to replenish its health and stamina. Lead your horse by holding the ''L2/LT'' button and pressing ''Square/X'' to walk it for a short distance. These actions significantly boost bonding progress.\n\nFinally, if none of the above solutions work, consider restarting the game or reinstalling it. This can resolve deeper issues with corrupted files or glitches. Always back up your save files before taking this step to avoid losing progress. By following these steps, you can fix the horse bonding reset bug and enjoy a stronger connection with your horse in Red Dead Redemption 2.