The rearing of dairy heifer calves from birth to first calving determines their health, welfare, and productivity throughout their productive lives.
Heifer rearing welfare begins with colostrum management at birth and continues through calf housing, weaning, and growth to first calving. Social housing with peers allows normal behavioural development that isolated calves cannot achieve. Gradual weaning reduces the acute stress response associated with abrupt milk removal. Investing in heifer welfare during rearing produces healthier, longer-lived cows with better welfare throughout their productive lives.