How do I prevent my horse from getting stolen in towns or camps?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, your horse is one of your most valuable assets, and losing it to theft can be a major setback. To prevent your horse from being stolen in towns or camps, you need to understand the game mechanics and take proactive steps to secure it. Horses can be stolen by NPCs or even lost if you leave them unattended for too long, so it’s crucial to follow these guidelines to keep your equine companion safe.\n\nFirst, always hitch your horse when visiting towns or camps. Hitching your horse to a post or tree ensures it stays in place and reduces the risk of theft. To hitch your horse, approach a hitching post or a suitable object like a tree, press the appropriate button (L2/LT to focus on the object, then Square/X to hitch), and your horse will remain secured. This is especially important in busy areas like Valentine, Saint Denis, or Rhodes, where NPCs are more likely to attempt theft.\n\nSecond, avoid leaving your horse unattended in high-risk areas. If you need to enter a building or explore on foot, make sure your horse is hitched nearby. If you’re in a camp, such as your gang’s camp or a temporary campsite, keep your horse close to your tent or fire. This minimizes the chances of it wandering off or being targeted by thieves. Additionally, always keep an eye on your horse’s icon on the mini-map to ensure it hasn’t been disturbed.\n\nThird, bond with your horse to improve its loyalty and responsiveness. A higher bond level (up to level 4) makes your horse less likely to flee or be stolen. You can increase your bond by feeding, grooming, and patting your horse regularly. A well-bonded horse will also respond better to your whistles, making it easier to call it back if it gets spooked or wanders away.\n\nFourth, use the Horse Reviver and Horse Insurance features. While these won’t directly prevent theft, they provide a safety net if your horse is lost or injured. Horse Insurance, available at stables, ensures your horse will be replaced if it dies or is stolen. Horse Reviver can save your horse from fatal injuries, which is especially useful in dangerous situations.\n\nFinally, be cautious around hostile NPCs or in areas with high crime rates. For example, in Saint Denis, thieves are more active at night, so avoid leaving your horse unattended during these hours. If you’re in a dangerous area, consider fast-traveling or using a secondary horse to minimize risk.\n\nBy following these steps, you can significantly reduce the chances of losing your horse to theft. Always prioritize hitching, bonding, and situational awareness to keep your horse safe and secure throughout your adventures in Red Dead Redemption 2.