How can I keep my horse from panicking during a bear attack?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, horses are essential companions, but they can panic during dangerous encounters like bear attacks. Understanding the game mechanics and taking proactive steps can help you keep your horse calm and avoid losing it in these situations.\n\nFirst, it''s important to know how the horse''s temperament system works. Horses have a bonding level (ranging from 1 to 4), which affects their behavior. A higher bonding level means your horse is less likely to panic and more likely to obey commands during stressful situations. To increase bonding, spend time grooming, feeding, and patting your horse regularly. Additionally, avoid overworking your horse by galloping for extended periods or exposing it to unnecessary danger.\n\nWhen facing a bear attack, your horse''s reaction depends on its bonding level and your actions. If your horse panics, it may throw you off and run away, leaving you vulnerable. To prevent this, keep your horse calm by using the ''Calm'' command (L3/LS on consoles). Hold the button down to soothe your horse and reduce its fear level. This is especially important when you hear the bear''s growl or see it approaching.\n\nAnother key strategy is to dismount before engaging the bear. If you''re on foot, your horse is less likely to panic and flee. Find a safe spot to tie your horse using the ''Hitch'' option, which is available at most camps or near trees. This ensures your horse stays in place and doesn''t run off during the fight. However, if you''re caught off guard and can''t dismount, focus on calming your horse while steering it away from the bear.\n\nUsing the right weapons can also help you end the encounter quickly, reducing the risk of your horse panicking. Equip a rifle or shotgun for maximum damage against bears. Aim for the head or vital areas to take the bear down in fewer shots. If you''re not confident in your aim, consider using Dead Eye to slow time and land precise shots. This minimizes the duration of the encounter, giving your horse less time to panic.\n\nIn some cases, your horse may still panic and throw you off. If this happens, don''t chase after it immediately. Focus on dealing with the bear first, as your horse will usually return once the threat is gone. Use the whistle command (up on the D-pad) to call your horse back after the fight. If your horse doesn''t return, check your mini-map for its icon or use the ''Horse Reviver'' item if it''s injured.\n\nFinally, consider your horse''s breed and temperament when exploring bear-prone areas like Tall Trees or the Grizzlies. War horses, such as the Ardennes or Hungarian Halfbred, are naturally braver and less likely to panic. If you''re frequently encountering bears, investing in a sturdier horse can make a significant difference.\n\nBy following these steps—increasing bonding, using the ''Calm'' command, dismounting when possible, and equipping the right weapons—you can keep your horse safe during bear attacks. Practice these strategies in less dangerous areas to build confidence and ensure you''re prepared for any encounter.