How do I improve Arthur’s horse bonding quickly?

Improving Arthur’s horse bonding in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for unlocking better stats, abilities, and a stronger connection with your horse. Bonding is measured in four levels, and each level increases your horse’s health, stamina, and responsiveness. To quickly improve bonding, focus on consistent interaction, proper care, and strategic gameplay.\n\nFirst, spend time riding your horse. Bonding increases as you ride, especially when you gallop or sprint. Use the left stick to calm your horse while riding, which also boosts bonding. For example, if you’re traveling from Valentine to Rhodes, take the scenic route and alternate between galloping and calming your horse. This not only builds bonding but also helps you explore the map.\n\nSecond, groom your horse regularly. You can do this by pressing the appropriate button when standing near your horse. Grooming removes dirt and improves bonding. Keep a horse brush in your inventory, which can be purchased from stables or general stores. If your horse gets dirty after riding through mud or water, take a moment to clean it. This small action significantly boosts bonding over time.\n\nThird, feed your horse. A well-fed horse is happier and bonds faster. Use hay, wild carrots, or purchased horse meals. You can find wild carrots in the Heartlands or purchase food from stables. Feeding your horse after a long ride or before a mission ensures it stays healthy and strengthens your bond. Avoid letting your horse’s health core deplete, as this slows bonding progress.\n\nFourth, pat and praise your horse. Press the appropriate button to pat your horse when standing next to it or while riding. This simple action increases bonding and calms your horse during stressful situations, such as encounters with predators or gunfights. For example, if your horse gets spooked by a wolf, pat it immediately to calm it down and improve bonding.\n\nFifth, hitch your horse when not in use. Tying your horse to a post or hitching rail in towns like Valentine or Saint Denis prevents it from wandering off and shows care. This action also contributes to bonding. Additionally, hitching your horse near camp or during missions ensures it’s ready when you need it.\n\nFinally, avoid actions that harm your bond. Neglecting your horse, riding it recklessly, or letting it get injured can decrease bonding. For example, crashing into trees or rocks while riding at high speed can scare your horse and reduce trust. Always prioritize your horse’s safety and well-being to maintain a strong bond.\n\nTo maximize bonding efficiency, combine these actions. For instance, after a long ride, groom, feed, and pat your horse before hitching it. This multi-step approach ensures rapid bonding progression. Additionally, consider using the Horse Stimulant or Horse Reviver items to heal your horse quickly if it gets injured during gameplay.\n\nIn summary, improving Arthur’s horse bonding quickly requires consistent care, interaction, and attention to your horse’s needs. By riding, grooming, feeding, and praising your horse regularly, you’ll reach bonding level four in no time. This unlocks advanced maneuvers like drifting and rearing, making your horse an invaluable companion throughout the game.