Farm Animals

Grazing Dairy Cattle Welfare

Dairy cattle with pasture access show better welfare outcomes across physical and behavioral measures.

Key Facts

Evidence-based approaches to grazing dairy cattle welfare inform welfare improvements globally
Animal welfare science provides tools to assess and improve conditions for all species
Individual consumer choices combined with advocacy create lasting systemic change
Every action to reduce animal suffering contributes to a more compassionate world

Welfare Considerations

Research consistently shows that dairy cattle with pasture access have lower rates of lameness, mastitis, and stereotypic behaviors than continuously housed counterparts. Grazing allows natural behavior including selective foraging, social interaction, and lying on natural substrates. Consumer demand for pasture-raised dairy is growing and creating market incentives for welfare improvement.

What You Can Do

Choose certified pasture-raised dairy products when available
Advocate for minimum pasture access requirements in dairy welfare legislation
Support retailers and brands with documented pasture access commitments
Reduce dairy consumption from continuously housed indoor systems