Dairy goats have distinct welfare needs from cattle and sheep, and specialised housing and management is essential to meet their behavioural and physiological requirements.
Dairy goat welfare requires management that respects the species unique behavioural repertoire - goats are more inquisitive, playful, and agile than cattle, and are highly motivated to climb, explore, and investigate their environment. Barren housing environments cause boredom and stereotypies. Kid welfare is particularly important - early separation from the dam is distressing for both parties, and alternative rearing protocols that allow limited dam contact or bonding before separation substantially improve welfare. Internal parasites are a persistent welfare challenge requiring targeted selective treatment rather than blanket anthelmintic use, which drives resistance.