How To Choose The Perfect Name For Your Pet

Welcoming a new pet into your home is an exciting and joyful time, and one of the most exciting parts of adopting a pet is picking their name! Choosing the perfect name for your new pet is a big decision, because you want the name to be a reflection of both your family and the pet’s personality. Not only do names hold significance, but your new companion will get used to responding to it for the rest of their life. 

It can be difficult to choose between so many great options! The team at Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital has put together this fun and helpful guide to choosing the perfect name for your new pet. 

Classic Names 

Sometimes, simple is best! While choosing a pet name is important, it shouldn’t be something stressful to decide. If your new puppy, kitten or exotic friend looks like a Spot, then name them Spot! There is no shame in picking a simple and fun name, if you feel it best represents your animal. Some examples of classic names are Spot, Fido, Snowball, Skip, Buddy, Bear, Penny, Rocky, and Daisy. 

Human Names 

Giving your pet a human name can be a fun way to give them personality and character. Maybe your new pet looks regal, and a fitting name like Phillip or Henry would be a good fit. Or perhaps your new dog or cat looks like a sweetheart, and something like Annabell or Angel would be more fitting. There are an endless supply of human names that could be very appropriate for your new best friend. 

Food Names 

Not only are food names fun, but they can also be unique! Think of your favorite food items and categories, and go from there! Maybe your dog looks like a Noodle, Rigatoni, or Ravioli. Or perhaps you’ve adopted two kittens who would make the perfect Peanut Butter and Jelly pair? 

Some other fun pet names inspired by food and drinks are: Tuna, Cocoa, Brandy, Nacho, Jelly Bean, Ginger, Pepper, Olive, Snickers, Oreo, Cheddar, and more! Basically, pick a food group and start listing your favorite items, and you’re bound to find the perfect one. 

Favorite TV or Movie Character 

A fun place to get name inspiration for your pets is from your favorite book, movie, or TV characters! Maybe your pet would make a great Khaleesi or Drogo, Mickey or Minnie, Harry or Lupin, or Luke and Leia. Character names are a fun way to include references to your favorite books, movies and television shows and are a great conversation starter when you share your pet’s name. 

Historical, Mythological, or Pop Culture Figures 

Maybe you’re a history buff, and a name like “Teddy” after Teddy Roosevelt would be the perfect fit for your new pet. Or perhaps you’ve adopted a very large dog or cat, and a powerful name like “Zues” would be fitting. Mischievous pets would make a great Loki. Looking at historical, cultural, or mythological references for your pet’s name is a fun way to get unique ideas. 

Music Names 

Another place to get inspiration from is your favorite musicians or bands. Names like Dlyan, Ziggy, or Ringo could pay tribute to your favorite artists such as Bob Dylan, David Bowie, or The Beatles. 

Names to Avoid 

Avoid naming your pet anything that sounds similar to word commands, such as “sit,” “stay,” “shake,” “heel,” etc. While this may seem obvious, it could lead to confusion down the road as you begin training your new pet if their name is “Fae” or “Mitt.”  

Also, keep in mind that while really long pet names can be fun, giving your animal a first name, several middle names, and a last name could be confusing to your pet. While their “official” name may be Sir Wooferstone Charles Barkely, chances are your pet will only respond to one short name or phrase that you refer to them by, such as “Charlie.” 

Other Things to Consider 

Once you’ve decided on a name, you may quickly discover that your pet responds to other nicknames or a shorter version of their name, used as an expression of endearment and love. You may find that your pet prefers to respond to the nickname instead of their full name, and this is just fine!  

Sometimes you may need a few days with your new pet while you decide which name is the best fit. During that time, it would be a great opportunity to schedule a new pet wellness exam with your veterinarian. This way, your vet can make sure your new family member off to a healthy and happy start within their new home.

The team at Oakhurst Veterinary Hospital is here for you and your pets! Call or text us today at 732-531-1212 to schedule a new pet exam or for any pet advice, for everything from names to new pet care.