Which configuration is correct for the phrase "don't saddle a dead horse"?

The phrase "don't saddle a dead horse" conveys the idea that attempting to invest effort into a situation that is already hopeless or unproductive is futile. The correct configuration likely refers to how this phrase is commonly understood or structured within a specific context. In this case, choosing the first configuration suggests that it accurately captures the intended meaning of the phrase, emphasizing the importance of recognizing when additional effort is unnecessary.

This indicating that the structure of the first configuration aligns with the traditional wisdom and clarity of the saying. Adhering to the original phrasing or context helps maintain its wisdom—serving as a metaphor warning against wasting resources or energy on something that will not yield results.