The number of dairy cows in Canada is projected to decline steadily each year from 2024 to 2028. Starting at 955.5 thousand heads in 2024, the number is expected to fall to 909.9 thousand heads by 2028. This represents an average annual decrease of approximately 1-2%. In comparison, the number stood higher in 2023, highlighting the downward trend in dairy cattle. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over these five years suggests a consistent decline in the dairy cow population.
Future trends to watch for include technological advancements in dairy farming, shifts in consumer preferences toward plant-based alternatives, and regulatory changes impacting livestock management. These factors could further influence the dynamics of dairy farming in Canada.
