What’s the best way to train a horse for better stamina recovery?

Training a horse for better stamina recovery in Red Dead Redemption 2 is essential for long rides, chases, and combat situations. Stamina recovery determines how quickly your horse regains stamina after exertion, such as galloping or climbing steep terrain. A horse with good stamina recovery will allow you to travel faster and farther without needing to stop frequently. To improve this, you need to focus on bonding, feeding, and proper care.\n\nFirst, bonding with your horse is the foundation of improving its stats, including stamina recovery. Bonding levels range from 1 to 4, and each level increases your horse''s stamina and health cores. To increase bonding, spend time riding your horse, brushing it, feeding it, and calming it when it gets spooked. For example, patting your horse while riding or brushing it after a long journey will boost bonding. Higher bonding levels also unlock better stamina recovery rates, so prioritize building this relationship early.\n\nFeeding your horse the right food is another critical factor. Horses require a balanced diet to maintain their stamina and recovery rates. High-quality foods like hay, apples, carrots, and sugar cubes are excellent for replenishing stamina. You can find these items at general stores, stables, or by foraging in the wild. For instance, apples and carrots are often found in orchards near Valentine or Rhodes. Feeding your horse regularly ensures its stamina core remains full, which directly impacts recovery speed.\n\nUsing horse tonics and stimulants can also enhance stamina recovery. These items are available at stables or can be crafted using herbs like Wild Carrot and Ginseng. Horse Stimulant, for example, instantly refills your horse''s stamina and can be a lifesaver during intense chases. Crafting these items requires the Herbalist skill, so consider unlocking it early in the game. Always carry a few tonics in your inventory for emergencies.\n\nAnother way to improve stamina recovery is by equipping better saddles and stirrups. The Nacogdoches Saddle, available at stables, is one of the best options as it significantly boosts stamina recovery and reduces drain. Pair it with Hooded Stirrups for additional benefits. These upgrades can be expensive, so save up your money or complete missions to afford them. For example, the Horseman Challenge series rewards you with cash and valuable items that can help fund these purchases.\n\nFinally, avoid overworking your horse. Constantly galloping at full speed or riding through rough terrain without breaks will drain stamina quickly. Use the calm button (L3/LS) to soothe your horse and slow down periodically to let it recover. For example, when traveling long distances, alternate between galloping and trotting to maintain stamina. This approach ensures your horse stays in peak condition and recovers faster.\n\nIn summary, improving your horse''s stamina recovery involves bonding, feeding, using tonics, upgrading equipment, and managing exertion. By following these steps, you''ll have a reliable companion capable of handling any challenge in Red Dead Redemption 2. Focus on building a strong bond, invest in quality gear, and always carry supplies to keep your horse in top shape.