https://www.gamespot.com/articles/red-dead-redemption-2-heres-how-the-horses-work/1100-6462200/

One of the key areas of Red Dead Redemption 2's gameplay that Rockstar has focused on is how horses work. The bond with your steed is as important as your speed on the draw, and in the upcoming open-world western sequel there will be ample opportunity to ensure main character Arthur Morgan makes the most of his companion.

At a recent hands-on event, we got the opportunity to learn more about how horses work; specifically, how they can be developed. In Red Dead Redemption 2, players will be able to establish and cultivate bonds with their horses. There are a total of four levels a bond can progress through, and each new level provides better response from and control of your horse, in addition to new abilities.