Animal welfare in Denmark

In order to ensure good animal welfare, Danish farmers and the Danish government emphasise the importance of meeting the animals’ physiological, behavioural and health needs. The Danish cows are considered to live under high standards of animal welfare. Uniquely, in Denmark, animal welfare is ensured by law.

The Danish dairy sector is committed to a quality programme, Gården, which all dairy farmers in Denmark must comply with. This programme also focuses on animal welfare.

Danish farmers are ethically and legally required to maintain high welfare standards for the livestock they are responsible for. Good animal welfare benefits both the animals and the farm, as cows that thrive produce more milk.