Zero-grazing or indoor dairy systems that never allow cows onto pasture are increasing in the UK. While they may reduce seasonal production variation, welfare concerns include lack of exercise, reduced social complexity, and absence of natural behaviour expression.
Dairy cows in year-round indoor systems cannot engage in grazing, which occupies 6-8 hours of a pastured cow day and is a high-motivation natural behaviour. Restricted movement on hard flooring contributes to hoof problems and lameness. Social behaviour is constrained by pen design. Research on cow preferences consistently shows strong motivation for outdoor access, making its denial a significant welfare concern regardless of production performance.