Who Gets the Dog? Colorado Law May Decide

When you get into a relationship, you never want to break up. Sometimes, it happens. You each go your separate ways and start over. You might split property items, sell the house, and take other measures for the purpose of breaking up, but what happens to the pets?

Many couples can and do reach an agreement on who will get custody of the dog, but there may be situations where an agreement cannot be reached. What happens then?

Proposed Colorado House Bill For Pet Custody

A new house bill in Colorado could soon be enacted, setting legal standards for the custody of pets in a divorce or separation. Colorado House Bill 26-1131 would direct the state courts to consider the pet's best interest when awarding sole or shared custody of the pet.

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The Colorado house bill was introduced by state representative Alex Valdez on February 4, 2026. The bill states that the pet's best interest would be considered when deciding on which party would gain full or shared custody, on the following factors:

• Health
• Safety
• Comfort
• Well-being

READ MORE: Colorado's Most Dog-Friendly Cities

Other factors include who acquired the animal, the amount of time spent, expenses incurred in caring for the pet, and caregiving responsibilities, such as feeding, walking, playing, grooming, training, and veterinary visits undertaken by each party.

Current Status on HB26-1131

Custody of Pet Animals, Colorado House Bill 26-1131, is currently under consideration for the 2026 regular session. More information on this House Bill can be seen at Colorado.gov.