Puppy Dog Names - How Do You Choose?

By Amelia Balfer

Choosing a name for your new puppy could present a real challenge. Puppy dog names should not sound far fetched, but you do not want it to sound like "just another dog" name. This is your best friend, and the name should reflect that.

Firstly, have a look at the dog's characteristics. Consider any unusual features, the expected size when grown, and whether it's a male or female. This could help to narrow down the list of puppy dog names considerably, and make it easier to choose among what's left.

Keep it short, sweet, and simple. The dog has to understand and remember it, so be careful of going beyond one or two syllables. You will find that ending the name on a longer vowel sound will be easier for the dog to recognize, remember, and respond to.

It would be better to stay away from human names. If a person with the same name has to become a friend and visit, you can just imagine how confused the dog will be for some time afterwards. Pet psychologists also believe that a dog should know where it fits into the hierarchy, and a human name could be confusing in this regard as well.

You could always employ "shock value", and use a paradox. In 1984 there was a movie called "Cujo", about a rabid St. Bernard that attacked people. There was one local student who named hid Fox terrier puppy, "Cujo". A number of people got a huge fright when they heard the owner calling it back, before they knew what it looked like...

Try to pick a name that will reflect the dog's personality. You could even consider a certain habit, character trait, or something funny the puppy does. Your friends and family will quickly catch on to this, and since the name is much more descriptive, it will be much more likely to be remembered than "normal" puppy dog names.

To make the most of your time with your best friend, be sure to visit our website about Dog Games. If you are an adventurous person, you may even want to read more about Dog Dress Up Games.