How to Choose Your Dog’s Name

Bringing your new dog home is an exciting time. You’ve sorted the bed, bowls, treats, and toys—but there’s one very important thing left to decide: your dog’s name. Choosing the right name is a big part of welcoming your dog into the family and helps set the tone for training, bonding, and everyday life together.

Choosing the Right Name

Picking a dog’s name should be fun, but it’s worth giving it some thought. It’s a good idea for everyone in the household to agree on one name from the start—temporary nicknames often have a habit of sticking. If possible, decide on the name before your dog comes home so you can begin using it straight away.

Short names are usually best, especially one- or two-syllable names, as they’re easier for dogs to recognise and respond to. Two-syllable names are particularly effective because they’re easy to say in a positive, upbeat tone. Try to avoid names that sound similar to other pets’ names or common words you use often, as this can cause confusion.

Changing Your Dog’s Name

If your new dog already has a name that doesn’t quite feel right, it’s absolutely fine to change it. Dogs of any age can learn a new name quickly. In fact, for rescue dogs—especially those with an unknown or difficult past—a new name can represent a fresh start, free from any negative associations.

When Not to Use Your Dog’s Name

Your dog’s name should always be linked to positive experiences. Avoid using it in a frustrated or angry tone, or when something unpleasant is about to happen, such as giving medication. Repeating your dog’s name constantly for no reason can also cause them to tune it out, so use it purposefully.

Teaching Your Dog Their Name

Once you’ve chosen the perfect name, the next step is teaching it. This is one of the first and most important parts of training, whether you’ve brought home a puppy or an older dog.

Say your dog’s name in a cheerful voice. When they look at you, reward them with praise and a treat. This teaches them that hearing their name means good things happen. Repeat their name before enjoyable activities such as walks, meals, playtime, or putting the lead on. Encourage everyone in the household to practise this too.

Short, frequent training sessions work best. Practise in different environments—around the house, in the garden, and out on walks. Once your dog reliably responds to their name, use it to get their attention before giving a cue, rather than repeating it unnecessarily.

Consistent positive reinforcement over your dog’s lifetime will strengthen this response and support good recall and communication.

Finding Name Inspiration

If you’re stuck for ideas, inspiration is everywhere. Many owners look to baby name lists, favourite books, films, TV shows, or even famous figures. Traditional names like Fido, Lassie, and Rover may be less common now, but they each have a long and interesting history and remain iconic dog names.

A Helping Paw from Iggy Pup Dog Care

As a local dog walking and dog sitting service in Stockport, Iggy Pup Dog Care supports dogs and owners at every stage—from excitable new puppies to settled adult dogs. A strong name response plays a big role in safe walks, reliable recall, and confident handling, all of which are reinforced through consistent routines, training, and positive experiences.

Choosing the right name is just the beginning of your journey together—but it’s an important one that sets your dog up for a happy, well-supported life.