In Germany dairy farms that want to get certified as producing basic Q-milch (Q-Milk, QM) have in 2023 to meet three new criteria. In freestall barns the number of cubicles must be at least the same as the number of cows in the barn. When dehorning calves younger than six weeks old a painkiller must be used and when desired also sedation. As third new criteria the milk room must be in a hygienic condition. It is also possible to get certified for producing QM+ or QM++ with more strong criteria. The aim is to constantly improve animal welfare in order to make it even more of a basis for action for farmers. If farmers milk is QM+ or QM++ certified, they receive an animal welfare bonus.