The dairy industry faces fundamental welfare challenges stemming from separation of cows and calves, high-yield genetics, and intensive housing, driving a reform movement within and outside the industry.
Dairy welfare reform addresses both practices-within-system improvements and more fundamental questions about the sustainability of high-production dairy. Within-system improvements include lameness prevention, extended suckling trials, cubicle housing quality improvements, and metabolic disease reduction. More transformative approaches include breeds designed for lower yield but better health, extended natural weaning periods, and integrated beef dairy systems. Consumer demand for ethical dairy labels is creating market space for these innovations.