What to Name Your Dog

What to name your dog says as much about you as it does about the dog. It shows how you view your “best friend” and your relationship with him/her. People will see the dog as a reflection of their personality or even your own. So, how do you decide what to name your dog?

Some words can cause people to judge your pet and react positively or negatively/fearfully when meeting it. Depending on whether the dog is a pet, guard dog, search & rescue dog or any other type of canine that works with the public, what to name your dog says as much about you as it does about your canine.  It is important to find a word that conveys the proper image. Therefore, choose wisely. Here are a few pointers:

• It should be a “people-friendly”, meaning you can proudly call it across the park and not get funny looks.

• Keep it simple. Canines grasp brief orders, so short and sweet says it best. Words with just a couple of syllables work well.

• Don’t confuse the issue. It shouldn’t sound similar to any commands. “Fetch, Fletch!” and “Stay, Ray” will only confuse your pet.

• Publicity hound. Since you’ll be calling your pet in public, loudly and frequently, make sure it’s not a word you’ll be mortified to yell. “Butthead” may be funny in the privacy of your house, but it won’t sound great at the park.

• Consider the kids. You’re right; “Fluffy” doesn’t illustrate the noble nature of your Champion Irish Wolfhound, but kids appreciate simplicity, too. Kids will love using simple words for their new pet.

• Don’t name your canine after a family member. Naming your baby after Uncle Norbert will keep you in the will, but naming the pet after him may not. Ask first before bestowing such an “honor” on a friend or relative.

• Try it out. When you find one you like, give it a test run for a day or two. If it feels natural, it’s a keeper! Otherwise, move on to the next word on your list.

Don’t forget to give your best friend lots of love when you call him/her and they respond! Treats, hugs, and positive reinforcement will help the dog to bond quickly to you.

Still can’t decide what to name your dog? Here are a few books to help you decide.

What to Name Your Dog
Move Over, Rover: What to Name Your New Pup When the Ordinary Just Won’t Do
Forever Buster: What a Name! What a Dog, We Exclaim!