How to Successfully Name Your Pet

Have you ever laughed a bulldog named Muffy or wondered how your friend named their cat Mittens but ended up spelling it really strangely? Are you interested in naming your pet the right way? If so, this is for you.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. First, choose a pet. I've tried to name pets before I got them, and when I met them, the names were all wrong. There's no reason not to come up with a list of pet names that you like, but don't get your heart set on a name until you meet the pet that it is going to match with. Although you like the name, "Lovebug" might not be an appropriate name for a giant, vicious looking dog.

2. Consider names you like for the pet. Ask around and see if your friends find the name easy to say and spell, because you don't want to have to correct people every single time you say or spell the pet's name. If you enjoy the name Tyler, I would highly recommend spelling it that way, rather than spelling it Thailur or something. Trust me, no one will understand why you did that, nor will they ever spell precious Thailur's name correctly.

3. Think about names and associations that you want to avoid. Do you have an ex-best friend named Jason? Avoid that name for your pet. You'll harbor negative associations and it won't be helpful in enjoying your pet to the fullest.

4. Avoid any names that you may want to name future children or grandchildren. Of course, they're great names - that's why you love them. But you don't want to have to say to people, "This is my dog Jessica. And my daughter Jessica. Yeah..." It's just awkward.

5. Avoid any pair names that can't stand on their own. Even pairs like Sonny and Cher can stand on their own, if you are alone with one of the pets. But you might feel a bit silly introducing your pet "Er" when "Bud" and "Weis" were left at home.

6. On the positive side, pick a name that you love! If you don't love the name, you won't be happy introducing the pet. Choose a great name that makes you happy. When it comes down to it, you have to love the name. Your pet probably won't care what their name is, as long as you provide treats whenever you call it. If your friends don't like the name you choose, tough luck for them. They wouldn't want you naming their pets, and you don't need their advice about naming yours.

7. Let your pet rock that name! Give little Spike a tough collar. Give Sweetie a pink heart nametag. It's your pet, and you deserve to have your fun!

[Gardengates]

on 10/10/2008 Excellent suggestions. I have been known to spend weeks overwhelmed with the decision on names for my pets!