How do I keep my horse from getting spooked by gunfire?

In Red Dead Redemption 2, horses are essential companions, but they can easily get spooked by gunfire, leading to dangerous situations. To prevent your horse from panicking during combat, you need to understand the game mechanics and take proactive steps to manage your horse''s behavior. Horses have a Bonding Level system, which ranges from Level 1 to Level 4. The higher the Bonding Level, the more your horse trusts you and the less likely it is to get spooked. Building this bond is the first step to keeping your horse calm during gunfights.\n\nTo increase your horse''s Bonding Level, spend time grooming, feeding, and patting it. You can also lead your horse by holding the L2/LT button and pressing the Square/X button. Riding your horse frequently and performing calm activities like trotting or galloping in safe areas will also improve your bond. Once your horse reaches Bonding Level 4, it will be much more resilient to loud noises like gunfire. However, even at high Bonding Levels, horses can still react to sudden or intense gunfire, so additional strategies are necessary.\n\nOne effective way to keep your horse calm during gunfire is to use the Calm Horse command. When you hear gunfire or anticipate combat, hold the L2/LT button to focus on your horse and press the Square/X button to calm it. This action reassures your horse and reduces its fear. If you''re in a prolonged gunfight, make sure to calm your horse periodically to maintain its composure. This is especially important in missions or areas with heavy combat, such as the gang hideouts in Lemoyne or New Hanover.\n\nAnother strategy is to position your horse strategically during combat. If you''re in a gunfight, try to keep your horse behind cover or at a safe distance from the action. For example, if you''re ambushed in the woods near Valentine, dismount and lead your horse to a nearby tree or rock to shield it from bullets and noise. This minimizes the chances of your horse getting spooked or injured. Additionally, avoid standing directly in front of your horse when firing your weapon, as the muzzle flash and noise can startle it.\n\nEquipping your horse with the right gear can also help. The War Horse or Turkoman breeds are naturally less skittish and better suited for combat situations. If you don''t have access to these breeds, consider purchasing a better saddle or stirrups from the stables. These items improve your horse''s stamina and health, making it more resilient in stressful situations. For example, the Improved Saddle, available at the Strawberry Stable, provides significant stat boosts that can help your horse stay calm under pressure.\n\nFinally, practice situational awareness. If you''re riding into a potentially dangerous area, such as the town of Rhodes or the swamps of Bayou Nwa, keep an eye out for hostile NPCs or wildlife. Dismounting before engaging in combat can prevent your horse from bolting. If your horse does get spooked and runs away, use your Whistle command (down on the D-pad) to call it back once the danger has passed. With these strategies, you can minimize the risk of losing your horse during gunfire and ensure it remains a reliable companion throughout your adventures.\n\nIn summary, keeping your horse calm during gunfire requires a combination of high Bonding Levels, strategic positioning, calming commands, and proper gear. By following these steps, you can ensure your horse stays by your side, even in the most intense combat scenarios.