How to Choose the Perfect Name for Your Dog or Cat
A name is the first gift you give your new pet. It should feel right to you and be easy for your dog or cat to learn. Here is how to choose well. For instant ideas, try our dog name generator or cat name generator.
Keep it short
One or two syllables are easiest for animals to recognise. “Max”, “Luna”, “Rosie” and “Milo” work well.
Avoid command sounds
Names like “Kit” (sit) or “Beau” (no) can be confused with cues. Choose a name that is clearly different from the words you use in training.
Think about personality
Spend a few days observing. A bold puppy may suit “Rocky”, a gentle cat “Willow”. Looks can inspire names too, such as “Ginger” for an orange cat.
Popular themes
- Food: Biscuit, Mocha, Peanut, Mango
- Nature: Willow, River, Sage, Storm
- Mythology and history: Zeus, Athena, Apollo
- Classic: Buddy, Daisy, Charlie, Bella
Test it out
Call the name out loud across a room or park. If you are comfortable saying it in public, it is a keeper.
Teaching the name
Say the name in a bright voice, then reward with a treat when your pet looks at you. Repeat a few times a day in a quiet place. Avoid using the name for scolding.
Don’t forget the paperwork
Add the name and your contact info to the microchip registry and ID tag so your pet can find its way home.