How much time did you spend picking out the perfect name for your pup? Finding that perfect doggy name is tough. Many new paw parents will start their search online and no doubt, there are many doggy names to be found online but which is the best for your pup? Some inspiration to get your creative juices flowing; let's find out what inspires most paw parents when they are searching for that perfect doggy name.

As you read through this article, make a list of potential dog names. We have provided more considerations at the end of the article to help you narrow it down to that single, best moniker for your pup.

1. The dog's personality

Consider your dog’s appearance and personality. You can choose a descriptive name like “Cocoa” for a chocolate Labrador, “Droopy” for a droopy, floppy ears Basset Hound, and “Happy” for a jovial mutt, or you can pick a name that describes the opposite of your dog, such as “Tiny” for a Great Dane.

Some common descriptive dog names include:

1. Fluffy
2. Scruffy
3. Maru (round)
4. Patch
5. Blackie
6. Brownie
7. Tadeo (loyal)
8. Ginger
9. Rusty
10. Joy
11. Tiny
12. Goldie

You may have heard that dogs and their owners do look alike. Now, new research has shown that owners and their pups often share personality traits too. Researchers found that dog and owner personalities often mirror each other. Active and outgoing people tended to have canine companions that behaved similarly. If you love active, outdoor pursuits, your pooch will love the Pidan Water Wave Ball Dog Toy (Red). This red ball can float on the surface of the water. With it, you can interact with your dog either on the ground or in the water!

2. Foodie names

According to the Collins Dictionary, a foodie is a person having an enthusiastic interest in the preparation and consumption of good food. Many dog owners are foodies too. So, it is not a surprise that food-themed names are one of the most popular categories of pet names. Here, we present 12 fun food pet names to get you started!

1. Mochi
2. Soda
3. Tofu
4. Adzuki
5. Cookie
6. Oreo
7. Peanut
8. Muffin
9. Nori
10. Butter
11. Nugget
12. Shuga (Sugar)

Your dog might even be a foodie herself since the dog and the ower often share similar personality traits. If she is, you might find yourself with a fussy eater. Like you, your foodie pooch will only want the best-tasting treats, so go for the best. You can’t go wrong with the Absolute Holistic Caviar Bisque (Tuna & Mountain Lobster) Cat & Dog Treats, a delicious liquid puree treats made with wholesome fresh meat. Mix a little into her dry food. Dry kibble can be boring, and a little Caviar Bisque will give it a flavour boost.

Look for healthy veggie treats like The Barkery Dehydrated Pumpkin Delight Dog Treats if adding veggies into doggie’s food is no-go. This treat is made from pumpkin, carrots, celery, sesame seeds, flax seeds and it’s chock-full of powerful vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.  

3. Celebrities

Some parents like to name their dogs after celebrities or historical figures. For instance, a classical music lover might name his dog Mozart or Beethoven. Sports fans might pick the names of their favourite players. A historian might name his dog after famous historical figures like Benjamin or Napawleon (Napoleon).

4. Movie characters

Whether you like the classics, romance, horror, action, or science fiction movies, you're sure to find the perfect name for your dog among their cast of characters.

There are plenty of iconic female and male dog names from movies. A few that we like are Juno, Shuri (Black Panther), and Nala (Lion King) for females. Bella is another popular female dog name from the movies. Popular male dog names from the movies include Buddy, Hachi, and Ollie. If scary movies are your thing, try Norman, Chuck, or Hannibal, names from villains taken from iconic horror movie roles.

What about Spock or Sherlock for a smart pooch?

This dog puzzle challenge, the KONG Tiltz Interactive Dog Toy is one of the best interactive puzzle toys for little “Sherlock”. It challenges your dog to uncover treats through problem-solving. As your dog spins and rocks the toy, treats are erratically dispensed for added engagement and enticing fun. 

5. Names for luck

Dog names that mean luck might bless your pooch with good fortune all year round!

Lucky is, of course, one of the most popular puppy names. Along with Lucky, here are 12 other dog names that mean lucky or fortunate.

1. Felix (happy, fortunate)
2. Asher (fortunate, blessed)
3. Penny
4. Yoshi (good luck or righteousness)
5. Felicia (lucky)
6. Eiji (prosperity or peace)
7. Tashi (good fortune)
8. Seeley (lucky, good fortune, blessed)
9. Ayan (fortune)
10. Gold or Goldie
11. Prosper
12. Kiara (good fortune)

6. Names based on numerology method

Some pet parents name their pets using the numerology naming method. Here’s how it’s normally done.

Find your dog’s Life Path Number.
The Life Path Number can be obtained by adding up your dog's birth date, month, year, and name.

For example:
Your pup was born on April 1st, 2010 (4/1/2010), and you intend to name her "Joy". Take note that the alphabet "J" is the 10th alphabet, "O" is the 15th alphabet and "Y" is the 25th alphabet. 

Her Life Path Number would be = (4/1/2010) + (Joy)
                                                   = (4 + 1 + 2 + 0 + 1 + 0) + (J + O + Y)
                                                   = 8 + (1 + 0 + 1 + 5 + 2 + 5)
                                                   = 8 + (14)
                                                   = 8 + 1 + 4
                                                   = 13
                                                   = 1 + 3 
                                                   = 4

Now that you know your best friend's Life Path Number, which is "4" in this example, check the attributes associated with this Life Path Number. 

• Number 1 is a number that represents self, and it represents a very independent character.
• Number 2 represents relationships. This is the pup that will be happiest sitting in your lap.
• Number 3 is a number of creativity and communication. It represents a highly sociable pup that loves to be out & about, meeting new humans and other pets.
• Number 4 is a number of structures and routines. Pets with this Life Path Number do best in structured environments.
• Number 5 represents high-energy, chaos, and adventure. These dogs love adventure!
• Number 6 is a nurturer. A very devoted and loving animal. Ideally suited to home and family environment, especially one with young kids.
• Number 7 is Intelligence and curiosity. Your best friend would probably like games or toys that stimulate them mentally.
• Number 8 is all about abundance and prosperity. They love studded collars, luxurious beds, even a good doggy spa. The PETKIT Everclean Pet Dog Massage Comb is a must for number 8. A soft delicate silicone comb that helps to remove pet epidermal hair and massage your dog at the same time. It works perfectly for both wet and dry usage - as a daily brush comb or during bath time for a deep massage and cleaning!
• Number 9 is a philanthropist. They are natural leaders and sensitive. They know when you are hurting and when you are happy.

If the attributes associated with the Life Path Number ”4" are not your ideal attributes, select another name from your shortlist. Choose one that when added together with your pup's birthday will give you the final Life Path Number that you desire.

7. Human names

It’s becoming pretty common to give your dog a human name especially if you see them as part of your family. At this age, some couples are even choosing dogs over human children. You can also name your dog after your favourite person.

8. The final step

At this point, you would have a list of potential names. Now, it’s time to narrow it down to the best for your pup.

• Dogs prefer short names. Two-syllable name is best. Longer names can be difficult for your dog to understand and a hassle for you to say over and over during training.
• Avoid choosing a name that sounds like a command. It can be confusing to the dog.
• Test them out. Call the names out aloud. See how easy it is to say in a variety of tones.
• Once you’re comfortable with the name in question, it’s time to see if your dog approves of it as well. Call the name to your dog and see what kind of reaction it elicits. Do their ears perk? Do you get a little wag? It’s important to not get discouraged if a name you love gets a lukewarm reaction from your dog. At this moment, your dog may not recognise the name yet. It will take a while for your dog to fully recognise and respond to the name. As long as you noticed some kind of reaction, even if it’s a small sign, it means that the name is something that your dog can be trained to respond to.

In the end, picking something that you love and are willing to say repeatedly is most important. If it makes you happy and your dog responds well to it, you’ve found the right choice.

KATHERINE KHOO

Katherine is a Pet Nutrition Specialist and GDP’s Pet Wellness Advisor. She is committed to helping pet owners make informed dietary and lifestyle choices in nurturing healthy pets. Katherine is also a practicing Nutritional Therapist (human nutrition) and has been helping hundreds of clients to heal naturally with nutrients.