Dairy cows have complex social hierarchies and affiliative relationships. Managing social groups to preserve bonds and reduce conflict is a key but often overlooked welfare consideration.
Social management is a welfare variable that is often overlooked compared to more visible factors like housing and nutrition. Dairy cows have genuine social bonds and experience stress from their disruption. Systems that minimise regrouping frequency, allow preferential partner access, and provide space for subordinate animals to avoid dominant ones achieve better social welfare outcomes. Recognising that cow social relationships matter is a fundamental step toward welfare-positive management.