AFP, Brasília

No more arguments over who gets the dog: A law passed by the Brazilian Congress will allow separating couples to share custody of their pets.

The measure, approved by lawmakers on Tuesday, is viewed as reflecting the importance Brazilians place on their pets.

The new law stipulates that if a couple separates without reaching an agreement regarding their pet, “a judge will determine the shared custody arrangement and the equitable distribution of the animal’s maintenance expenses between the parties,” according to the text of the law.

To qualify, the animal must have spent the majority of its life with the couple. Shared custody will not be granted in cases of prior criminal records or a history or risk of domestic violence.

Lawmakers pointed to an increase in pet custody disputes in courts, but also said the law responds to “changes that have occurred in Brazilian society in recent decades,” according to a statement accompanying the law.