There are nearly as many approaches to naming a pet as there are pet owners themselves. Some people prefer using tried and true pet names like Spot and Fluffy, whereas others opt to name their pets based on a physical attribute — color, for instance. More than a few chocolate Labs have been named Hershey to be sure. Throughout history pets have been named after all kinds of things — flowers, famous people, states... you name it — pardon the pun. Some owners delight in giving their cats or dogs not just one but two or three names. Some owners have names in mind before they bring their pets home, while others may wait days or even weeks to select the name that fits an animal just right. Is one way of choosing a name better than the rest? Not necessarily, but there are a few things you should know before besetting your Irish Setter with the title of Seamus Connor O'Reilly III.
When Naming Your Pet, Keep It Simple
First and foremost, your pet's name should be simple. Dogs respond best to names with either one or two syllables at the most. If you would like to give him a middle name — or a longer name for his AKC registration paperwork, that is fine, but always use the same nickname when calling him to avoid confusion. You should also strive to make your dog's name unique. This doesn't mean that you can't name him Max or Jake (two of the most popular pet names at the moment), but avoid names that sound too similar to other words you use on a regular basis. Joe, for example, may sound an awful lot like No to a Rottweiler.
Some cat owners enjoy lavishing their regal companions with names fit for royalty. Perhaps your majestic-looking feline is an obvious Queen Elizabeth. Or maybe you would prefer a more exotic name for your Oriental breed. Whatever you choose, cat names should also be simple. So if you opt for a longer name, select one that can be shortened into an easy nickname.
Dog Names and Cat Names Should Suit the Pet Well into Adulthood
Certainly choose a name that you like, preferably one with a positive connotation. Animals are very intuitive individuals. Cats and dogs know instantly if their names elicit laughter from those who hear it. You may think you are being clever by naming your dog Hey-You or D-O-G (said quickly in a lambs-eat-oats-and-does-eat-oats sort of way), but your dog will likely feel like he is the butt of a joke every time you introduce him to someone new. This can hurt his self-esteem and even damage your relationship with him.
While it may be tempting to name a cute little kitten an equally adorable name, consider how she will react to the name as a full-grown cat. Your Ragdoll may look like a Baby Doll now, but will she feel good when called to dinner by this name two years from now? A name should suit the pet well into adulthood.
Always Use an Upbeat Tone when Saying Your Dog or Cat Names
Also, remember that a dog may perceive the meaning of a menacing name like Killer or Rascal. Like children animals tend to live up (or down) to the expectations we set for them. Is it really a coincidence when a dog dubbed Puddles is a slow learner when it comes to housetraining? Likewise, a cat named Princess may expect her family members to act as loyal subjects.
To ensure that your pet responds positively to the name you give him, avoid using the name in conjunction with reprimands of any kind. Always use an upbeat tone when saying your pet's name, and don't hesitate to reward him from coming when his name is called while he is still getting used to the new moniker. If your pet associates his name with attention and treats, after all, he will be much more likely to come when called.
