Pet Custody When Separating: 10 Questions to Help You Decide Who Gets the Dog

When it comes to pet custody after separation, it’s not as simple as flipping a coin. At Umbrella Family Law, we know your dog is part of the family – not just property. This blog outlines 10 key questions to help you decide who gets the dog and how to put their wellbeing first.

1. What is your dog’s daily routine – and who supports it?

Does your dog go to doggy daycare? Need medication or daily walks?
✅ Who handles the day-to-day care?
✅ Can both homes maintain the same routine?

2. How does your dog cope with stress or change?

Dogs often pick up on tension.
✅ Has your dog shown signs of anxiety or illness during past changes like moving house or guests visiting?
✅ Would moving between two homes cause distress?

3. Has your dog formed a stronger bond with one of you?

Sometimes, dogs attach more to one person.
✅ Who do they turn to for comfort?
✅ Who handles training, feeding, or vet visits?

4. Is one home better suited to your dog?

Think about lifestyle changes post-separation.
✅ Will your dog have outdoor access or enough space?
✅ Will they be left alone for long periods?
✅ Are there other pets or children to factor in?

5. Does your dog have ongoing health needs?

✅ Does your pet need medication or regular vet care?
✅ Who has the time and resources to manage it?

6. Is your dog involved in work, sport, or showing?

Some dogs have specific environments they thrive in.
✅ Does your dog do agility, therapy work, or breeding?
✅ Who has the setup to support their lifestyle?

7. What are your dog’s behavioural or social needs?

✅ Are they reactive or anxious in new settings?
✅ Have they had behavioural support or training before?
✅ Can both homes handle their personality?

8. Can you trial a shared pet custody arrangement?

✅ Could a month-on/month-off or holidays-only approach work?
✅ Can you assess what arrangement is least disruptive for your dog?

9. What are the actual costs of owning your dog?

✅ Food, insurance, grooming, day care, training, vet bills – who pays what?
✅ Can you agree on a shared expense plan?

Hint: Add this up – it’s often more than you think.

10. What future decisions might come up?

✅ What happens if your dog becomes unwell or elderly?
✅ Will you make big decisions together?
✅ What if one of you moves or can’t care for them anymore?

Your Dog Deserves More Than a Property Dispute

These aren’t just emotional questions – they’re legal and practical ones we address every day in our family law practice. Pet custody after separation can be resolved thoughtfully, without needing to go to court.

We use these same questions when working with clients who want to avoid conflict and prioritise their dog’s wellbeing. These types of questions can also be helpful for other types of pets like a cat, bird, or horse.

Talk to Lawyers Who Understand Pet Custody

At Umbrella Family Law, we help families create fair, pet-first custody arrangements. From dog co-parenting agreements to sole custody options, we approach every case with compassion and care – because we know pets are family, too.

Explore our Pet Custody Services HERE
Check out our Media Features & Interviews HERE
Check out our other blogs about pet custody HERE

Book a consultation today to talk about your pet custody options. Let’s work together on what’s best for your dog.