What’s the best way to increase bonding levels with my horse quickly?

Increasing bonding levels with your horse in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for unlocking better stats, improved handling, and unique abilities like rearing or skid turns. Bonding levels range from 1 to 4, and each level requires consistent interaction with your horse. The fastest way to increase bonding is by combining feeding, grooming, patting, and riding your horse regularly.\n\nStart by feeding your horse. You can purchase hay, wild carrots, or other horse meals from stables or general stores. Alternatively, you can pick wild carrots in the open world, which are free and effective. Feeding your horse not only restores its health but also increases bonding points. Aim to feed your horse every time its cores are low or after long rides.\n\nGrooming is another key activity. Use a horse brush, which can be purchased from stables or found in your inventory, to clean your horse whenever it gets dirty. Dirt accumulates over time, especially when riding through mud or water. Grooming not only improves your horse''s appearance but also boosts bonding. Make it a habit to groom your horse after every major ride or when you notice dirt on its coat.\n\nPatting your horse is a simple yet effective way to increase bonding. Press the appropriate button (L3 on PlayStation, LS on Xbox) to pat your horse while standing next to it or riding. Patting calms your horse during stressful situations, such as encounters with predators or gunfire, and also builds trust. Aim to pat your horse frequently, especially after it performs well or when it seems agitated.\n\nRiding your horse is one of the most efficient ways to increase bonding. The more you ride, the faster your bonding level will rise. Focus on long rides across the map, as distance traveled contributes significantly to bonding points. For example, ride from Valentine to Rhodes or Saint Denis to Annesburg to maximize bonding gains. Avoid fast travel, as it skips the bonding process.\n\nTo speed up bonding, consider using horse stimulants or tonics, which can be crafted or purchased. These items temporarily boost your horse''s stamina and health, allowing you to ride longer distances without stopping. Combine this with feeding and grooming during breaks to maximize efficiency.\n\nIf you''re struggling to find time to bond with your horse, try multitasking. For example, while hunting or completing missions, take breaks to pat, feed, or groom your horse. This ensures you''re consistently building trust without interrupting your gameplay flow.\n\nFinally, avoid actions that decrease bonding, such as neglecting your horse''s needs, crashing into obstacles, or letting it get injured. If your horse dies, you''ll lose all bonding progress, so always keep horse revivers in your inventory.\n\nBy following these steps, you can quickly increase your horse''s bonding level and unlock its full potential. Focus on consistent care, long rides, and multitasking to maximize efficiency.