Horses are an integral part of the Red Dead Redemption 2 experience, serving not only as the primary mode of transportation across the vast in-game world but also as loyal companions. Players can acquire horses through various means, including taming wild horses, purchasing them from stables, or even through less conventional methods. The bond players form with their horses is a key mechanic, improving over time through activities like feeding and grooming. This growing bond enhances the horse’s attributes such as stamina, performance, and handling, while also unlocking valuable perks and rewards.
This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of all horse breeds available in Red Dead Redemption 2 and Red Dead Online. With 19 distinct breeds in the base game and an additional 5 introduced in Red Dead Online updates, players have a total of 24 breeds to choose from. Each breed possesses unique characteristics and handling, catering to diverse playstyles. By exploring this guide, you can discover detailed information, including attributes, coat variations, and locations where each breed can be found, helping you select the perfect equine partner for your adventures.
Understanding Horse Classes and Availability
Horses in Red Dead Redemption 2 are categorized into different classes, each suited for specific roles:
- Work Horse: Generally reliable and balanced, suitable for general use.
- Race Horse: Optimized for speed and acceleration, ideal for covering long distances quickly.
- War Horse: Built for combat, often possessing higher health and stamina, and less prone to spooking.
- Draft Horse: Known for their strength and durability, often used for pulling heavy loads.
- Riding Horse: A versatile class suitable for general riding and exploration.
- Superior Horse: Often represents the pinnacle of a breed’s performance.
- Multi-Class: Breeds that excel in multiple categories, offering a blend of attributes.
American Paint Horse
- Class: Work Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found, Tumbleweed Stable
American Paint Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
American Standardbred
- Class: Race Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found, Valentine Stable, Tumbleweed Stable
American Standardbred in Red Dead Redemption 2
Andalusian Horse
- Class: War Horse
- Available from: Strawberry Stable, Van Horn Stable
Andalusian Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Appaloosa
- Class: Work Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found, Van Horn Stable, Tumbleweed Stable
Appaloosa Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Arabian Horse
- Class: Superior Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found, Saint Denis Stable, Blackwater Stable
White Arabian Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Ardennes
- Class: War Horse
- Available from: Valentine Stable, Scarlett Meadows Stable, Van Horn Stable
Ardennes Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Belgian Draft Horse
- Class: Draft Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found
Belgian Draft Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Breton Horse
- Class: Multi-Class
- Available from: Red Dead Online
Breton Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Criollo Horse
- Class: Multi-Class
- Available from: Red Dead Online
Criollo Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Dutch Warmblood
- Class: Work Horse
- Available from: Valentine Stable, Scarlett Meadows Stable, Strawberry Stable
Dutch Warmblood Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Gypsy Cob Horse
- Class: Multi-Class
- Available from: Red Dead Online
Gypsy Cob Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Hungarian Halfbred
- Class: War Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found, Valentine Stable
Hungarian Halfbred Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Kentucky Saddler
- Class: Riding Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found, Valentine Stable
Kentucky Saddler Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Kladruber
- Class: Multi-Class
- Available from: Red Dead Online
Kladruber Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Missouri Fox Trotter
- Class: Race Horse, Work Horse, Multi-Class
- Available from: Scarlett Meadows Stable, Blackwater Stable
Missouri Fox Trotter in Red Dead Redemption 2
Morgan Horse
- Class: Riding Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found, Valentine Stable
Morgan Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Mustang
- Class: War Horse, Work Horse, Multi-Class
- Available from: Can be stolen/found
Mustang Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Nokota Horse
- Class: Race Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found, Saint Denis Stable
Nokota Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Norfolk Roadster
- Class: Multi-Class
- Available from: Red Dead Online
Norfolk Roadster in Red Dead Redemption 2
Shire Horse
- Class: Draft Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found
Shire Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Suffolk Punch Horse
- Class: Draft Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found
Suffolk Punch Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Tennessee Walker
- Class: Riding Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found, Valentine Stable, Tumbleweed Stable
Tennessee Walker Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Thoroughbred
- Class: Race Horse
- Available from: Can be stolen/found, Valentine Stable, Strawberry Stable
Thoroughbred Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Turkoman Horse
- Class: Race Horse, War Horse, Multi-Class
- Available from: Saint Denis Stable, Tumbleweed Stable, Blackwater Stable
Turkoman Horse in Red Dead Redemption 2
Customization and Further Exploration
Beyond the breed, players can personalize their horses with over 60 different coat styles and a wide array of customizable tack, including saddles, horns, stirrups, and spurs. This extensive customization allows for the creation of a truly unique companion, fostering a deep and personal connection as you traverse the world together.
For an exhaustive list of all horses across every breed, consult the comprehensive Red Dead Redemption 2 Horses Database.
The game also features a collection of stunning horse screenshots and artworks that showcase the beauty and diversity of these virtual creatures.
