Research has moved beyond simply providing enrichment to pigs toward specifying exactly what types, quantities, and properties of enrichment most effectively meet pig behavioral needs and prevent injurious behaviors.
Enrichment specification research has important policy implications because EU legislation prohibits routine tail docking only when pigs are provided adequate enrichment - yet most intensive systems use inadequate enrichment while continuing to dock tails. Research shows that pigs need enrichment that is at floor level (for rooting), manipulable (can be moved and interacted with), and regularly renewed (as novelty drives engagement). Straw-based systems provide all these qualities; hanging chains do not. This science should drive more rigorous enforcement of the tail docking exemption.