It can be difficult to find the perfect name for your puppy or dog. The following are tips for selecting a name for a new pet and how to help it become accustomed to its new name. These suggestions can help you sort through thousands of prospective dog names that are available, and how to narrow your choices down.
Avoid Command-Like Names
In order to have an understanding and communicative relationship, dog training is absolutely essential. Therefore, you should avoid naming your dog something that sounds like a command or an obedience cue that is commonly used for training dogs. It could be confusing to try and train a dog called “Shae” using the command ‘to stay,’ or how to teach “Fletch” how to ‘fetch.’
Don’t Repeat Names
Avoid using names that are the same name as members of your household. After all, your dog is definitely going to be confused if he thinks you are telling him to “take the car to the auto shop,” or to “take out the rubbish.” You don’t want your dog to be confused when it’s time to learn the “come” cue.
Choose A Short Name
A short name of one or two syllables is much easier for a dog to respond to and recognise, especially during dog training. The name of a dog should be easily recognisable and simple.
Emphasise Hard Sounds
The short vowels (i, e, a, y) and hard consonants (t, d, k, b) are easier to distinguish and hear compared to the long vowels (u, e, i) and soft consonants (n, m, s, f). Therefore, a name like “Buddy” or “Tito” will be a lot easier for your dog to recognise compared to a name such as “Fern.” A dog needs to be able to recognise human sounds for proper training, so your dog’s name should be easy for him to understand.
Select a Name That You Are Proud Of
You should select a name that you won’t have any problems with saying out loud when you are in public. If you are playing ball or working on your obedience cues at a park, you should have a name that you aren’t embarrassed to say out loud.
Teaching Your Dog His Name
If this is your dog’s first name, then you will need to help him get used to responding to it. Begin by using his name on a regular basis in daily life and encourage him to focus on you by using his new name.
Consider the personality and appearance of your dog. If you would like to give your dog the same name as a human friend or family member, ask the person first how they feel about that. No matter what you decide to name your dog, be sure that it’s a name you like as well as one that your dog is able to respond to easily. If you like the name then it doesn’t matter whether it’s popular or unusual. After all, your dog won’t know the difference.