Sheep and goat dairy production is growing globally. These species have distinct welfare needs that differ from cattle, requiring species-specific management approaches.
Dairy small ruminants are often managed in smaller artisanal operations with closer human-animal relationships than intensive cattle farms, but welfare challenges remain significant. Lameness, mastitis and reproductive stress from intensive production cycles affect many individuals. Dairy systems that separate kids from does at birth deprive both dam and offspring of natural bonding behaviour. Extended suckling systems or foster rearing reduce these welfare costs. High welfare dairy small ruminant production embraces the species' social nature and provides adequate outdoor access, shelter and foraging opportunity.