This process takes 3 to 4 weeks. Cows which are given a dry period of less than 30 days will produce less milk in the subsequent lactation. A minimum dry period of 55 to 60 days after the first lactation, and 50 to 55 days after the second lactation is recommended. Older cows require a minimum dry period of 40 to 50 days. A dry period of more than 70 days can contribute to obesity at calving.
Obese cows are more likely to have calving difficulties and metabolic disorders.
Corral space, loafing area size, and protection from weather depends on cow numbers, climate, and waste management considerations. In unpaved, earthen corrals under semi-arid conditions, approximately 500 to 600 square feet of loafing area and 40 to 50 square feet of shade per cow are recommended. Freestalls are becoming more common in California. If freestalls are used, there should be one stall per cow. If overcrowding is unavoidable at times, cow numbers should not exceed available freestalls by more than ten percent.