Dairy goat production has intensified rapidly in recent decades. Intensive zero-grazing systems common in Mediterranean and developing world production raise significant welfare concerns for a highly active, curious species.
Dairy goats in intensive systems are deprived of their most fundamental behavioral needs — the ability to browse, climb, explore, and express their natural curiosity. Goats housed permanently on concrete without enrichment develop lameness and stereotypic behaviors. The separation of kids from mothers causes acute distress for both. Higher-welfare goat dairies provide outdoor access, climbing structures, varied environments, and allow extended nursing or alternative rearing methods that reduce separation distress.