What’s the best way to train a horse for hunting in RDR2?

Training a horse for hunting in Red Dead Redemption 2 requires a combination of bonding, proper care, and strategic gameplay. The first step is to choose the right horse. War horses, such as the Ardennes or Hungarian Halfbred, are ideal for hunting due to their high stamina and bravery around predators. Alternatively, multi-class horses like the Missouri Fox Trotter or Turkoman offer a balance of speed and composure, making them versatile for both hunting and travel.\n\nOnce you have your horse, focus on building a strong bond. Bonding is achieved by spending time with your horse, feeding it, brushing it, and leading it. Each bonding level (up to level 4) improves your horse''s stats and responsiveness. At level 4, your horse will be less likely to spook during hunting encounters, which is crucial when tracking dangerous animals like bears or cougars.\n\nTo train your horse for hunting, start by exposing it to wildlife gradually. Begin with smaller, less threatening animals like deer or rabbits. Ride your horse near these animals and allow it to get accustomed to their presence. If your horse becomes agitated, calm it by pressing the left stick (L3 on PlayStation or LS on Xbox) and speaking soothingly. This helps build its confidence and reduces the likelihood of it bucking you off during more intense hunts.\n\nNext, practice hunting from horseback. Use your bow or a scoped rifle to take down animals while mounted. This not only improves your accuracy but also helps your horse become more comfortable with the sounds of gunfire. Start with stationary targets, such as grazing deer, and gradually move to faster-moving prey like wolves or bison. Remember to dismount and skin your kills promptly to avoid attracting predators.\n\nOne common challenge is managing your horse''s stamina during long hunts. To address this, always carry horse stimulants or wild carrots, which can be found near the Dakota River or in the Heartlands. These items restore stamina quickly, allowing you to chase prey or escape danger without overworking your horse. Additionally, equip your horse with a good saddle and stirrups, such as the Improved or Gerden Vaquero Saddle, to boost its stamina and health regeneration.\n\nWhen hunting in predator-heavy areas like Big Valley or Roanoke Ridge, keep your horse calm by staying alert and using Dead Eye to spot threats. If a predator attacks, immediately calm your horse and use a powerful weapon like a shotgun or rifle to defend yourself. Over time, your horse will become more resilient and less likely to panic in these situations.\n\nFinally, always prioritize your horse''s health. Regularly feed it hay, apples, or sugar cubes, and brush it to remove dirt and improve its condition. A well-maintained horse performs better in all aspects of hunting, from stamina management to handling stressful encounters.\n\nIn summary, training a horse for hunting in RDR2 involves selecting the right breed, building a strong bond, gradually exposing it to wildlife, and equipping it with the best gear. By following these steps and addressing common challenges, you can create a reliable hunting companion that enhances your overall gameplay experience.