Goat dairy farming is growing globally as an alternative to cow milk, but goats have distinct welfare needs around housing, social interaction, and kid management that require specific attention.
Goats are intelligent, social animals that suffer welfare compromise in poorly managed systems. Intensive housing without adequate enrichment, social grouping, or outdoor access causes psychological and physical stress. The kid management issue parallels dairy cattle: male kids have limited commercial value and often receive inadequate care. Good goat dairy welfare includes appropriate social housing, enrichment, access to forage, and responsible kid management.