The mammary gland experiences drastic changes during the dry-off transition. Immediately after milk cessation the cisternal spaces, ducts, and alveoli of the gland are engorged with milk that is no longer removed from the gland. The engorged mammary gland may become more prone to milk leakage (ML), thereby allowing bacteria to colonize the gland. The objectives of this study was to record the prevalence of cows leaking milk during the first 2 d after dry-off (DO) and to investigate the potential relationship between ML and teat-end score. The study was conducted in 59 commercial dairy farms from Mexico, Brazil, USA, Europe (Spain, France, Germany, Denmark, Belgium, Italy, Czech Republic, the Netherlands) and Russia. A total of 3,308 cows were included in the study. Cows were eligible for enrollment if they were in good health and had no signs of clinical mastitis, had 4 functional quarters and were not treated with an internal or external teat seal. Occurrence of ML was determined by direct observations at quarter level between DO and 48 to 52 h after DO. Each observation lasted at least 30 s per cow. Teats were assessed and scored according to Standard Operating Procedure for the Scoring of Teat End Hyperkeratosis in Dairy Cattle. A multi-variable logistic regression model was used to investigate the association between teat-end-score and ML in 1,142 cows. Prevalence of ML within 2 d after DO was 24, 31, 26, 24, and 50% in Mexico, Brazil, USA, Europe, and Russia, respectively. The teat end score was not associated with ML (P > 0.1). It is concluded that ML prevalence ranges between 24 and 50% in the participating countries. As ML is considered to increase the probability of acquiring new IMI after DO, strategies to reduce ML should be considered to improve udder health.