Petco Employee Recommends How to Choose a Pet Name

So, you've brought home a new kitten, puppy or other lovable creature. After mere moments, the perfect pet name might pop into your head, but is it a good name for your pet? Choosing a pet name should take some careful consideration, especially if you plan to do obedience training with him. Here are six tips for choosing a name for your new pet.

1. Choosing a Pet Name: Keep it Short

When selecting a new name for your pet, keep it short. Choose a two syllable name that is easy for the dog to understand. Even if the pet is purebred with a three part name, don't use it in everyday training and socialization. It's simply too confusing for the pet. Names like Fluffy, Sammy, Buddy and Pepper are good options with only two syllables.

2. Choosing a Pet Name: Don't Confuse them with Commands

Avoid pet names with one syllable. These will quickly get confused with commands such as no, sit, stay, come or down. Avoid names like Sid, because it sounds like the command to "sit" or Dawn, because it sounds like "down."

3. Choosing a Pet Name: Be Consistent

Avoid trying several names at one time for your pet to see which one you like, or which one he responds to. You will only confuse your pet, and he will not know which name to respond to, since it keeps changing. Choose a name, and stick to it. Make sure everyone in the family uses the same name.

4. Choosing a Pet Name: No Nicknames

Although it is common, having several nicknames for your pet may become confusing for your animal. Stick with one short name. If you must use a nickname, make sure it follows the original short name, so the pet still hears the regular name first.

5. Choosing a Pet Name: Reward Recognition

When a new pet begins to respond to his name, reward him. If you say the pets name, and he looks towards you, tell him he is a good boy. Make eye contact as you talk with him. When he starts to come to his name, reward the name recognition with praise, treats and belly rubs.

6. Choosing a Pet Name: Make it Fit

Don't rush to name your pet. Allow yourself some time with the pet before you give him a name, so you can see what name describes his demeanor and attributes. Does he have physical characteristics or a funny mannerism that could translate well to a pet name? Perhaps a fluffy white kitten given on Christmas will be named Snowball, or a shelter dog that finally found a home will be named Lucky.