What’s the best way to bond with a new horse?

Bonding with a new horse in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for improving its stats, responsiveness, and overall performance. The bonding system is a core mechanic that allows you to build trust with your horse, unlocking new abilities and making it more reliable in critical moments. Bonding levels range from 1 to 4, with each level improving your horse''s health, stamina, and maneuverability. To maximize bonding, you need to focus on consistent interaction, care, and positive reinforcement.\n\nTo start bonding with a new horse, you must first tame or purchase it. Wild horses can be found in various locations, such as the Heartlands or Big Valley, while stables in towns like Valentine or Saint Denis sell pre-tamed horses. Once you have your horse, mount it and begin riding. Initially, the horse may buck or resist, but calming it by pressing the left stick (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) will help establish trust. Repeatedly calming the horse while riding will increase your bonding level over time.\n\nFeeding your horse is another critical aspect of bonding. Horses require regular meals to stay healthy and happy. You can feed them hay, wild carrots, or other consumables like apples and sugar cubes, which can be purchased from general stores or found in the wild. Feeding your horse not only restores its health and stamina but also strengthens your bond. Make sure to check the horse''s core stats in the player menu to ensure it’s well-fed and hydrated.\n\nGrooming your horse is equally important. Use a horse brush, which can be purchased from stables or general stores, to clean your horse when it gets dirty. Dirt accumulates as you ride through mud, water, or dusty terrain. Grooming not only improves your horse''s appearance but also boosts its mood and bonding progress. You can groom your horse while standing next to it by selecting the brush from your inventory.\n\nLeading your horse on foot is another effective way to build trust. Hold the lead button (L2/LT) and walk with your horse for a short distance. This activity is particularly useful when exploring towns or areas where riding isn’t practical. Leading your horse demonstrates care and attention, which contributes to bonding. Additionally, patting your horse after a ride or during breaks will further strengthen your relationship.\n\nAvoiding negative interactions is crucial for maintaining a strong bond. If your horse takes damage, spooks, or is neglected, its bonding progress may slow down or even decrease. Always keep an eye on your horse''s health and stamina cores, and avoid reckless behavior like galloping through dangerous terrain or exposing it to predators. If your horse is injured, use horse reviver or visit a stable for treatment.\n\nFinally, unlocking bonding levels 2 through 4 will grant your horse new abilities. At level 2, you can perform a sliding stop by pressing the brake button while galloping. Level 3 allows you to rear your horse by holding the brake button and pressing the spur button. At level 4, your horse gains increased health and stamina, as well as the ability to perform a quick sidestep to avoid obstacles. These abilities make your horse more versatile and reliable in combat or exploration.\n\nPractical tips for bonding include carrying a horse brush and food items at all times, avoiding fast travel to spend more time riding, and using the horse care package available at stables. By consistently caring for and interacting with your horse, you’ll quickly reach bonding level 4 and enjoy a loyal, high-performing companion throughout your adventures in Red Dead Redemption 2.