Alpacas are farmed globally for their fine fiber, with welfare standards varying significantly between small-holder and commercial operations.
Alpaca welfare concerns include shearing stress when not handled calmly and skillfully, dental disease from insufficient forage, and foot problems from inappropriate terrain. As a growing industry, establishing welfare standards including handling training, dental care, and social housing requirements can prevent poor practices from becoming entrenched. Individual-kept alpacas often suffer from social isolation.