Naming Your New Puppy or Dog
When naming your puppy, it’s important to choose a name that you don’t mind saying 30,000 times. It’s also important to choose something that your dog will understand and won’t confuse with other commands.
Avoid names that sound like a command, for example, “Stay” and “Stacy.” Commands are often one-syllable words like “No,” “Sit,” and “Down.” Instead, choose a name with two or three syllables that ends in a vowel sound.
Invite your kids join in the decision process. Children usually come up with simple names that are easy to say and to remember. Be sure to avoid using negative words as names, like “Butthead” or “Jerk.” You will be saying this dog’s name in public.
Names that are extremely common are easy for other people to pick up on, and may cause your dog running to them instead of you.
Using family members or friend’s names as an honorary gesture may be nice, but be sure and tell your beloved aunt before you name your pug after her.
Some things that may help you in choosing a name are:
1. Appearance. Take note of your dog’s size, color and personal style.
2. Personality. Every dog has a unique and individual personality, just like humans. If your dog is sweet and cuddly, choose something that reflects that part of him.
Another great place to get dog names is from your favorite celebrities, TV shows, movies, comic books, cities or even what country the breed originated from.
Try out the new name for a few days, and if it doesn’t stick, move on to something the animal will pick up easier. Also, be sure to give him plenty of praises when he starts to respond to his new name. Positive reinforcement aids in helping him learn his new name quicker.
By Kenna Rogers
Kenna Rogers is a full-time college student taking publication courses. She is a life-long lover and owner of various pets, including a black Labrador named Booe, a Siberian husky named Xaber, and a chow/golden retriever mutt named Suey.