Choosing the name of a pet can be a difficult task. Follow the tips in this article to find the perfect name for your new pet.
Steps
Step 1. Think about the animal's personality
Does it remind you of a particular person or character? Is there an activity that you particularly like? Does it remind you very much of a certain character? All of these aspects can help you choose the name.
Step 2. Consider unique names
You can find unique names everywhere. For example, you might call a gray cat, "Husky". It is better if the name recalls the animal's personality. Observe everyday objects, such as "Table" or "Remote Control" always keeping his personality in mind. Or, if the pet has a mystical appearance, "Unicorn" or "Pandora" are good options. You can even call a black cat "Panther"! THINK OF AN ORIGINAL NAME.
Step 3. Consider names that you like the sound of
Names extracted from characters from books, films or television programs are often a great choice.
Step 4. Ask friends and family for advice
They may suggest original names you haven't thought of.
Step 5. Consider personal names
"Ivan", "Linda", "Max", or "Ezio" can be perfect, as well as traditional animal names, like "Fido".
Step 6. If you have a purebred dog, think of an aristocratic name
For example: Princess Cordelia Aurora III, or Prince Charles Samuel Charleston IIII. If you decide to use an aristocratic name, also think of a simple abbreviation.
Step 7. Go for something simple
Remember that you will say the name often, so make sure it can be said quickly.
Step 8. Experiment
Does the name sound good when you walk the dog on the street? (Tip: names with a long vowel sound echo longer). Would you feel embarrassed to say the name in front of friends, certain people or in some contexts? If the answer is yes, it is advisable to think of another name.
Step 9. Once you have chosen the name, do not say it too often in front of the animal
You do not want the animal to mistake the name for a common word. To teach him to recognize his name, throw him lots of parties, pay attention to him, and reward him when he looks in your direction when you call him. Subsequently, he begins to use the name more and more often.
Step 10. Make sure that the name is suitable for the sex of the animal unless it is a problem for you if others ask you questions on the subject
If it is important for you that others associate the name with the sex of the animal and if you do not want to explain to everyone the choice of a non-traditional name for its sex, opt for a name suitable for the sex of the animal. For example, a dog named Sam could be both male and female. If that's not a problem for you, you don't necessarily have to follow the social conventions used by humans for animals. Just make sure you report the anomaly to the vet, even if he will notice it right away!
Advice
- If the animal's name is very long, think of a suitable nickname by which you usually call it.
- Always use a pleasant tone of voice when saying his name. The animal must like its name and must not run away when you say it.
- Don't worry if it takes a long time to choose the name. If you struggle to find the right one, spend time with the animal and watch the way it moves and interacts with you. It will help you make the decision easier. Even if you are taking longer than expected, remember that this is not just an animal but a lifelong friend and its name is very special. Besides, he must like it too!
- If the animal has been mistreated in the past and if it already has a name, changing it can also represent a new beginning for it.
- Don't choose too common names, such as Luna, Fido, Max, Lili, etc. If a common name suits his personality, that's no problem, however the situation could become confusing if there are many "Fido" living in your area. Think original and find something unique.
- Choose a name that is easy to pronounce.
- It may be useful to choose a name that can echo for a long time when you call the animal from afar. Names with long vowel sounds are ideal.
- Don't stress about finding a name that's too creative or clever. Sometimes, the simplest names are the best.
Warnings
- Don't give it a derogatory or inappropriate name. It is important to be polite to others if you have to call the animal in public, and it would be rude to expect the vet to use that name if it is derogatory.
- Don't use a certain name for long periods unless you're absolutely sure it's the right one - don't change your name after a month or else you'll confuse the poor animal.
- Don't scream his name when he does something wrong. The animal may begin to associate its name with your anger, especially if you don't use the name often in other contexts. Just tell him a simple "no". (Prevent problems and "bad habits" by using preventative methods and training him. For example: A young dog who barks a lot may be bored and in need of exercise and attention. Organize walks and have him play with other dogs, or take him to a trainer for decrease the barking and to calm it down.)
