How do I keep my horse from running into enemy gunfire?

Keeping your horse safe during combat in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial, as losing your horse can be devastating, especially if it’s a high-bonded or rare breed. Horses are vulnerable to enemy gunfire, and their AI can sometimes lead them into dangerous situations. To avoid this, you need to understand the game mechanics and take proactive steps to protect your horse.\n\nFirst, always keep your horse’s bonding level high. A horse with a high bonding level (Level 4) is more responsive to commands and less likely to panic in combat. To increase bonding, spend time grooming, feeding, and calming your horse. Additionally, practice calling your horse to you and using the ‘Stay’ command in safe areas to ensure it obeys during tense moments.\n\nDuring combat, position your horse strategically. Avoid riding directly into enemy fire or open areas where your horse can be easily targeted. Instead, dismount and take cover, then command your horse to stay or flee to a safe distance. To do this, hold the ‘Call Horse’ button (L2/LT) and select the ‘Stay’ or ‘Flee’ option. This keeps your horse out of harm’s way while you handle the enemies.\n\nAnother effective strategy is to use the ‘Horse Reviver’ item. Always carry at least one Horse Reviver in your inventory. If your horse is injured, you can quickly revive it before it dies. This item can be purchased from stables or general stores, so stock up whenever possible. Additionally, equip your horse with a better saddle and stirrups to improve its health and stamina, making it more resilient in combat.\n\nWhen engaging in missions or ambushes, scout the area first. Use Eagle Eye to identify enemy positions and plan your approach. For example, in missions like ‘Pouring Forth Oil’ or ‘The Sheep and the Goats,’ enemies often attack from multiple directions. By scouting, you can position your horse behind cover or in a safe zone before the fight begins.\n\nIf your horse does get hit, immediately calm it by pressing the ‘Calm’ button (L3/LS). This prevents it from bucking you off or running into further danger. If the situation is too chaotic, consider fleeing the area on foot and calling your horse back once the threat is neutralized.\n\nFinally, invest in a war horse or a breed with high health and bravery stats, such as the Ardennes or Turkoman. These horses are less likely to panic and can withstand more damage. You can find these breeds at specific stables, like the Scarlett Meadows Stable or the Blackwater Stable, depending on your progress in the game.\n\nBy following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of losing your horse to enemy gunfire. Always prioritize your horse’s safety, and remember that a well-cared-for horse is your greatest ally in the wild west.