The interpretation of research on noise assessment in animal housing is difficult as goals and methodology of assessment differ substantially between studies. Besides the differences in housing conditions and technology used for measuring noise, a lack of knowledge exists for intra- and interspecies communication, hearing ability and assessment of detrimental consequences following noise exposure. Due to the development of intensive production systems, pigs in all stages of housing are exposed to monotonous chronic noise as well as to a variety of intense noise events. The intention of this review is to document and compare the results of previous studies on noise assessment, in particular housing situations and to demonstrate the impact and significance of the noise problem for farm animal welfare, housing, design and management.