MAKE sure the name does not sound too close to any commands that you plan to use because this will confuse the dog. For example, “Mo” can sound like “No” and “Kit” sounds like “Sit.” AVOID names that have negative connotations. Think of what it would feel like to run through a public space shouting your dog's name.
Short, sweet and easily recognizable names work best in getting your dog to be responsive. Use a name that is one or two syllables, ending with a vowel, such as “Sadie” or “Rocky.” Don't choose a name that is too long or difficult to say. A name such as “Sir Barks A Lot” will only confuse your dog.
“I feel like 99 percent of the time it's completely okay to rename your pet,” says Thomas. “It's a fresh start for you and them, and it can be a bonding experience.”
Many people select a name for their pup ending in "y" because there are a lot to choose from and they like the ending sound of the last syllable. Dog names ending in "y" can be very short names, such as Lily, Ry, or Ivy, or longer such as Barnaby, Mackenzey, or Rommily.
Tip 1 - two syllables & “hard” letters
Dogs do not hear words, but tend to recognise sounds. They hear names with two syllables and initial letters such as “CH, S, SCH, SH or K” better than long dog names. Dog names ending with a vowel (A, E, I, O, U) are also recommended.
“Dogs don't have a concept of identity the way we do,” says certified New York dog trainer Renee Payne. “It might be confusing if you change [the name] regularly, but everyone I know calls their dogs several different nicknames. You can always add on; you just want to have some consistency.
It's never too late to change a dog's name, but the time it takes for your dog's new name to “stick” varies from a couple of training sessions to a few weeks, depending on the dog; the process will go faster if you avoid using the name aimlessly or associating it with anything negative.
Puppies can learn their names quickly (most can pick it up within 1-3 days!) but generally, you'll want to practice using their name regularly. A good way to start teaching your puppy their name is to use it to gain their attention by saying their name and rewarding them when they look at you!.
The classic dog name theme is mostly a descriptive one, but some names are eternally canine and can be given to any dog of any size, color, or breed. These names include Fido, Rex, and Champ for boys and Lassie, Missy, and Roxy for girls.
Dog trainers agree that a one- or two-syllable name (Lucky, Jack, Lucy, etc.) is best, as it's easy for dogs to remember and simple for people to say. Dogs typically learn shorter words and commands faster, so make it easy for both parties and name them something unchallenging.
Practice a minimum of 10 times per day, say the dog's name (from 2 to 6 feet away) and as soon as the dog looks at you, mark this behaviour with a marker word such as “yes” or a clicker and reward with food or play while giving lots of praise.
Use their name often, so they grow accustomed to it. If your dog was used to its original name, you can say both names together to create an association. For example, Frankie becomes Frankie Teddy becomes Teddy. Always say their name and look in their direction when giving them a command.
The name should be no longer than two syllables. This allows you to pronounce it quickly should you need to get your dog's immediate attention. A short name, therefore, works great for working dogs or those enrolled in sporting events.
Depending on the name and how you use it, it may take just a few days for your pet to adjust to a new name, or it could take several weeks for the dog to feel comfortable with a new name. In time, however, your dog will recognize its new name and there won't be any confusion with what to call your beloved pet.
Most dogs are capable of learning and recognizing their owners' names. Dogs are highly social animals that have evolved to form close bonds with humans, and they often learn to associate their owners' names with positive experiences such as food, play, and affection.
After three weeks, many dogs have settled and behave as though they feel like they are home now, but they really don't fit into your routine until about three months have gone by.” Give it time.
The study finds that common commands are among the most likely words a dog will know. These include “sit,” “come,” “down,” “stay,” “wait,” “no,” “OK,” and “leave it.” However, researchers note that dogs most frequently respond to their own names.
Dogs appear most calm when listening to classical music, reggae, and soft rock. In addition to genre and rhythm, variety is key. Dogs tend to tune out music they hear all the time. The relaxing effect declines once music turns into ambient noise.