The Novel Surface Test (NST), also known as the Risk-Taking Test, evaluates cows’ willingness to cross an unfamiliar surface placed in their normal walking path. The test measures individual and group-level differences in approach-avoidance, risk-taking tendencies under mild uncertainty, and leadership. This test can be performed in different environments and is designed to test single or multiple animals in one testing session. The test procedure described in this SOP is performed in two different types of corridors and is designed to test two or more animals.