So you picked a puppy, now what are you going to name your new companion? Naming your new puppy can be so fun and exciting, but it is important to chose the right name. Your going to be using this name everyday for a long time so take your time and consider your options. I have come up with a few pointers when making this big decision:
Keep it short! Dogs will understand their name better if it only one or two syllables long. If you have your heart set on a longer name, try to come up with a nickname that will be easier to understand and easier to say when calling your puppy.
No Joe! Be careful that the name you choose does not sound like a command. A name like Joe could be confusing when saying “no” to your puppy. Teaching your puppy commands can be challenging enough without adding that confusion.
What does he look like? Use your puppy’s physical features to come up with a name. For example, Curly, Spot or Coco. This may be an easy way out of picking a name but it will suit your dog perfectly and these names are oh so cute!
Get inspired! Use your favorite celebrities, movies, books or history figures for inspirations. A friend of mine is a huge Bill Murray fan, so she named her new puppy Bill. I also met a dog named Jovi, named after the great Bon Jovi. I thought this is a fun way to come up with a unique name.
No Grandma Nelly! On the topic of naming your dog after a person. Please avoid naming your dog after a friend or family member. Besides the confusion that it my cause, the person may find it to be an insult.
Remember you will use this name is public! You will be using this name at the vet’s office, the dog park and may other places. A name you may think is funny may not be appropriate in public situations. You really don’t want to be yelling “Booger” across the park or even worse.
Naming a pet is much easier than naming a child, so have fun with it. There’s no need to worry about what nicknames your puppy’s peers will come up with or how popular the name is. Be creative but also be appropriate. Good luck on your naming adventure!