To answer specific questions regarding cow behaviour or affective states, it is sometimes necessary to study the cow’s responses to specific stimuli in a test situation. This can be done either in the animal’s home environment or in a test arena [1]. As specific research questions determine the test design, it is not possible to provide a general guideline that fits all types of behavioural test. However, there are several considerations common for most behaviour tests in cattle. These guidelines will assist when planning a test conducted either in the home environment or in a test arena but is by no means an exhaustive description of behavioural tests in cattle.