Red Dead Redemption 2 offers players extensive freedom to explore its vast map on horseback, with 19 distinct horse breeds and over 60 coat variations. Each breed has unique stats in speed, acceleration, health, stamina, and handling, influencing their suitability for different tasks. Horses can be acquired by purchasing from stables or taming in the wild, and bonding with them improves their performance. Breeds range from basic Morgans, suitable for short trips with average stats, to specialized horses like the sturdy draft breeds (Belgian, Shire, Suffolk Punch) ideal for heavy labor, and fast racehorses (Nokota, Thoroughbred, American Standardbred) designed for speed and agility.

Among the breeds, Morgans and Kentucky Saddlers are common and easy to find but have modest speed and stamina. Tennessee Walkers stand out for their style and durability, while draft horses like Belgians and Shires excel in strength but are heavier and harder to handle. Workhorses like Appaloosas offer balanced stats for ranch work, and racehorses such as Nokotas and Thoroughbreds provide superior speed and acceleration for quick travel or combat. Players can choose horses based on their preferred playstyle, balancing aesthetics with performance to enhance their Red Dead Redemption 2 experience.