How do I increase my horse’s bonding level quickly?

Increasing your horse''s bonding level in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for improving its stats, responsiveness, and overall performance. Bonding levels range from 1 to 4, with each level unlocking new abilities and making your horse more reliable. To quickly increase bonding, focus on consistent interaction, proper care, and strategic gameplay.\n\nFirst, spend time riding your horse. Bonding increases as you cover distance, so take your horse on long rides across the map. For example, travel from Valentine to Saint Denis or explore the wilderness around Big Valley. The more time you spend in the saddle, the faster your bonding level will rise. Additionally, galloping and sprinting can slightly accelerate this process, but avoid exhausting your horse by monitoring its stamina.\n\nSecond, groom your horse regularly. Use the brush in your inventory to clean your horse whenever it gets dirty, which happens after riding through mud, rain, or dusty terrain. Grooming not only boosts bonding but also improves your horse''s health and appearance. You can find brushes at stables or general stores, and they are relatively inexpensive. Aim to groom your horse at least once per in-game day or after every major ride.\n\nThird, feed your horse high-quality food. Apples, hay, and wild carrots are excellent options for maintaining your horse''s health and increasing bonding. You can find wild carrots in the open world or purchase food from stables and general stores. Feeding your horse after long rides or when its cores are low will help build trust and improve bonding. Avoid feeding your horse spoiled or low-quality food, as this can negatively impact its health.\n\nFourth, pat and calm your horse frequently. Press the appropriate button (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) to pat your horse while riding or standing nearby. This simple action increases bonding and calms your horse in stressful situations, such as during combat or when encountering predators. Calming your horse is especially important when riding through dangerous areas like the swamps near Saint Denis, where alligators can spook your mount.\n\nFifth, avoid actions that harm your horse. Running into trees, falling off cliffs, or getting into fights can decrease bonding and damage your horse''s health. If your horse gets injured, use horse reviver or visit a stable to heal it. Always prioritize your horse''s safety during missions or exploration to maintain a strong bond.\n\nFinally, stable your horse when not in use. Stabling your horse ensures it remains safe and well-cared for, which indirectly supports bonding. You can find stables in major towns like Valentine, Strawberry, and Rhodes. Stabling also allows you to customize your horse''s appearance and equipment, further enhancing your connection.\n\nBy combining these methods, you can quickly increase your horse''s bonding level and unlock its full potential. Focus on consistent care, regular interaction, and safe riding practices to build a strong partnership with your horse.