Comparing zero-grazing and pasture-access dairy systems reveals important welfare trade-offs. The evidence base increasingly supports pasture access as a welfare-positive requirement.
The welfare comparison between zero-grazing and pasture systems cannot be resolved by clinical health metrics alone. Pasture access provides behavioural opportunities that zero-grazing cannot replicate: natural grazing posture, exploration, social interaction at the herd level, and thermoregulation choice. Cows' strong motivation to access pasture is demonstrated by their willingness to work against resistance to reach grass. Systems combining good indoor management with meaningful pasture access achieve optimal welfare across both dimensions.