Lying time is one of the most sensitive welfare indicators for dairy cows, with reduced lying associated with multiple welfare problems in housed systems.
Lying time is a sensitive integrator of multiple welfare stressors in dairy cows. Suboptimal cubicle design, overstocking, lameness, and excessive time spent at the feed barrier all reduce lying time. Cows that cannot achieve adequate lying rest show elevated cortisol, reduced milk production, and impaired immune function. Continuous lying time monitoring using accelerometers enables early detection of welfare problems before clinical signs appear. Herds that maintain average lying times above 12 hours demonstrate high overall welfare standards.