Dairy cows are social creatures so they seek contact with fellow calves after birth. Their eventual social status within herds can play a role in their access to water and food. Research results increase our understanding of paired housing in the critical newborn and pre-weaned stages of dairy calf lives.
. . . housing designed to facilitate early socialization can build behavior skills, shape calf personalities, and ultimately, set up animals for success in the herd.”
Source: Feedstuffs, December 22, 2023. Link.
Also see: Pros and cons of raising calves in paired housing, Bovine Veterinarian, February 24, 2022. Link.