The Czech Republic and Sweden, as member states of the European Union, are subject to the universal European regulations covering the protection and welfare of animals that must be observed in these countries. Every country may, of course, adopt its own stricter regulations over and above these EU regulations. Research on animal farming and the legislation was performed in two countries. The result was a comparison of the legislation and farm conditions. This investigation was based on the legislation and literature, our own observations, and interviews with farmers and livestock specialists.