Farm Animals

Sheep Welfare: Challenges and Advances in 2026

Overview of sheep welfare status in 2026, including key research findings and policy progress.

Key Facts

Flystrike remains a major summer welfare challenge globally
Mulesing alternatives gaining commercial viability in Australia
Lameness scoring adoption growing among progressive flocks
Nutritional welfare in pregnancy a key focus for vet guidance
Shearing welfare research producing new best practice guidance

Welfare Considerations

Sheep welfare has seen advances in pain management, disease prevention, and welfare assessment tools in 2026. Mulesing remains controversial, with alternatives advancing but adoption slower than advocates wish. Flystrike prevention and lameness management require consistent on-farm practice to deliver welfare benefits.

What You Can Do

Support retailers and brands sourcing from non-mulesed flocks
Follow Sheep Veterinary Society and similar bodies for guidance
Advocate for routine welfare assessment on sheep farms