Choosing Appropriate Names for Pets

The process of naming a pet involves matching size, breed, appearance and character to a suitable name. Although this sounds easy, many people find it difficult to do. Here are some guidelines that will help a person to consider a whole range of possible names.

What Color is the Animal

This is an obvious way to name a pet but can be effective. Look at the animal's coat or plumage and consider incorporating the color into its name. Avoid boring names such as Blackie or Brownie and look for the unusual instead.

• Ebony
• Inky
• Licorice
• Sable
• Mocha
• Sherry
• Brasso

What Size will the Pet Grow to

An animal should have a name that suits its size. For example, a Great Dane named Tinkerbell doesn't sound right. Here are a few suggestions:

• Brutus
• Samson
• Titch
• Tadpole
• Tiny

What Country did the Breed Originate from

Do some research and find out what part of the world the breed of the pet is originally from. Some are well known while others may be more obscure. Then choose a name that is distinctive to that country.

• French Poodle - France
• Angora Rabbit - Turkey
• Siamese Cat - Thailand
• Cockatiel - Australia

Does the Pet have Unusual Markings or Fur

Many animals are characterized by their markings or type of fur. Jack Russells tend to have brown "freckles" mixed into their white coats and tabby cats have light and dark grey spots and stripes. Here are some names that reflect coat style and color combinations:

• Shaggy
• Fluffy
• Rasta
• Biscuit
• Domino
• Rugrat

Pet Names from Cartoons and Movies

These are popular with children - especially if the pet resembles the character it is named for. Here are a few of the better known ones:

• Goofy
• Pluto
• Snoopy
• Scooby-Doo
• Jock
• Beethoven
• Lassie

Naming Pets after Famous Personalities

Some people see characteristics of famous people, past and present, in their pets. It may be a shrill bark, a fussy nature, or friendly behavior that sparks the connection. Here are a few suggestions:

• Nero
• Nelson
• King George
• Tyson
• Oprah
• Rambo
• Beyonce

Exotic Pets need Exotic Names

Lizards, spiders, snakes, monkeys, crabs and other unusual pets need suitably unusual names. Research their background and connections in literature and come up with a list of possibilities such as this:

• Godzilla
• Triceratops
• Gollum
• Widow

Names for Pairs of Pets

It can be fun to use paired names for two animals bought at the same time. Here are some ideas to get the thought processes going:

• Bonnie and Clyde
• Laurel and Hardy
• Simon and Garfunkel
• Peaches and cream

It can be great fun choosing a name for a pet. For some people, it is almost as important as naming a child. With careful consideration and research, there is a perfect name for every animal.