Welfare during the heifer rearing period shapes lifelong health and behavior in dairy cows.
Dairy heifer welfare during rearing determines the welfare trajectory of the animal for its entire productive life. Early social experience shapes adult social competence — heifers raised with adequate social contact and space develop better coping skills and show less stress in adult social situations. Abrupt weaning causes acute distress that can be reduced through gradual methods. Nutrition during rearing affects lifetime metabolic health. The investment in welfare during heifer rearing pays welfare dividends throughout the production cycle — heifers that enter first calving in good condition, with good social skills and low fear of humans, have better welfare outcomes throughout their dairy careers.