Restricted suckling systems are one the most common forms of livestock production in developing countries. In these systems partial milk extraction and calf suckling are combined, resulting in a multi-commodity (milk and meat) production system. These are now being recognised as some of the most efficient and sustainable uses of the available resources in developing countries. These systems provide a more ‘natural’ method of calf rearing, thus maximising animal welfare. The aim of this experiment was designed to investigate the maternal relationship between cow and calf within a restricted suckling system and evaluate its effect on milk production and reproduction.