What’s the best way to bond with a horse during bounty hunts?

Bonding with a horse during bounty hunts in Red Dead Redemption 2 is a crucial aspect of gameplay, as a well-bonded horse can significantly improve your efficiency and survival during missions. The bond level between Arthur and his horse affects the horse''s responsiveness, stamina, and health, making it essential to build this relationship even in high-pressure situations like bounty hunts. Here’s a detailed guide on how to maximize bonding during these missions.\n\nFirst, understand the mechanics of bonding. Bonding with a horse increases through four levels, each unlocking new abilities and stats for your horse. You can bond by riding, calming, feeding, brushing, and leading your horse. During bounty hunts, you’ll often be on the move, so focus on actions that can be performed while riding or during brief stops. For example, patting your horse (pressing the calm button) while riding is a quick way to build trust. This action also calms the horse if it gets spooked by gunfire or predators, which is common during bounty hunts.\n\nFeeding your horse is another effective way to bond. Carry plenty of horse provisions like hay, apples, or wild carrots, which can be found or purchased at general stores. Feeding your horse not only restores its health and stamina but also increases bonding. During a bounty hunt, take a moment to feed your horse after a skirmish or while waiting for the target to appear. This ensures your horse stays in peak condition and strengthens your bond.\n\nBrushing your horse is another bonding activity, though it requires a brief stop. If you’re tracking a bounty and have a moment to pause, use the horse brush to clean your horse. This is especially useful if your horse has been running through mud or rain, as it improves its appearance and boosts bonding. Keep a brush in your inventory at all times for these opportunities.\n\nLeading your horse is a less common but effective bonding method. If you’re on foot during a bounty hunt, such as when sneaking into a camp or searching for clues, lead your horse by holding the lead button. This builds trust and is particularly useful if you’re moving slowly or stealthily. It also keeps your horse close, ensuring you can mount quickly if needed.\n\nDuring bounty hunts, you’ll often face challenges like gunfights or chases, which can stress your horse. To maintain bonding, avoid reckless behavior like galloping into dangerous situations or ignoring your horse’s stamina. Use the calm button frequently to reassure your horse during combat. If your horse gets injured, use horse reviver or tonics immediately to heal it, as neglecting its health can lower bonding.\n\nFinally, choose the right horse for bounty hunts. War or multi-class horses like the Ardennes or Dutch Warmblood are ideal because they are brave and less likely to panic during gunfights. These horses also have high stamina and health, making them reliable partners for long hunts. You can find these breeds at stables like the one in Valentine or by taming wild horses in specific locations like Big Valley.\n\nIn summary, bonding with your horse during bounty hunts requires a mix of quick actions like calming and feeding, as well as occasional stops for brushing or leading. Prioritize your horse’s health and stamina, and choose a breed suited for combat and endurance. By following these steps, you’ll build a strong bond with your horse, ensuring it remains a loyal and effective companion throughout your adventures.