Great! You've made the decision to get a puppy. You've taken time out of your busy schedule to meet and talk to several dog breeders.  You've surfed the net numerous times researching which dog type is right for you and your lifestyle. You went from one doghouse full of pups to another, visited dog associations and animal societies, seeked and met puppies until you found the right one for you. The question now is:  What will you name your puppy?

Naming Your Puppy


You will use your dog's name countless amounts of time over his lifetime, approximately 34,000 plus times, for those counting.  Therefore, ensure you and those involved in the care of your new puppy select a name everyone agrees with and is easy to remember.

Bare in mind, dogs comprehend only brief commands. Names should, therefore, be effortless to recall--names with two syllables or lesser work best. So, if you chose to name your dog, "Dewey Winston McArthur", don't be surprised if he doesn't instantly respond to your commands. Following are a few helpful pointers in selecting an ideal name for your puppy:

  1. Your pup’s name shouldn’t sound like any of the basic dog commands.  For instance, don't call your dog "Kip".  It's sounds too close to the dog command "sit" and will only mix up your canine buddy when it comes time for training.
  2. You will be using the dog's name in public, therefore, refrain from using offensive names for you new puppy or dog. "Boner" might be funny for your drinking buddies, but may earn you dirty stares and comments from passerbyers who don't appreciate the humor in your dog's name.
  3. Include your kids in the name decision process. Ask what they prefer to name the dog.  If they rather name the dog "Rocky" or "Willie"--so be it.
  4. While naming a newborn after Uncle Bob or your best friend, Al, may conjure feelings of great honor from them, don't expect the same warm fuzzy feelings or emotions to be shared should you decide to name your new dog or pup after them—it just isn't the same.
  5. If you opted for an older dog, it's best if you don't change his name—stick with the old name.
  6. So, what if your new dog shares the same name as your ex-boyfriend, whom you had a bitter breakup? No problem, try locating names that rhyme or sound similar to your dog's original name.
Once you've selected a name, test it in all variables possible—at home, outside, at the park, etc.  Does it work for you?  Can the kids pronounce it properly?  Is it easy to recall?  Otherwise, scrap the name, and start over.   There are oodles of dog names ready for the pickin’ and with the above helpful tips, naming your dog is now easy and fun.