The Human Approach Test (HAT) evaluates animals’ behavioural responses to the progressive approach and proximity of an unfamiliar human in a controlled setting. It assesses animals’ acceptance of human presence within their comfort zone, approach–avoidance tendencies, fearfulness and human affinity. This test is adaptable to various environments and all age classes. The test procedure described in this SOP is performed in a tie-stall environment and is designed to test a single animal.