Picking a Dog Name: Expert tips for choosing the perfect name for your puppy - and how it could impact behaviour
It’s one of the most important decisions that a new dog owner makes - and it’s not just about finding a puppy name that you like.
Spring is a popular time to welcome a new puppy into the home, and choosing the right name is one of the biggest decisions on a new pet owner’s journey.
Your new puppy’s name shouldn’t just reflect their appearance and personality – it can also have a huge impact on how they learn, behave, and engage with their family.
To help new puppy owners choose the perfect name for their pup, Hannah Molloy, Agria’s Pet Insurance’s Animal Behaviourist has come up with some expert tips.
She explained: “When it comes to naming your new furry family member, it’s worth thinking beyond what sounds good on paper and considering how it’ll work in everyday life and training.
“A dog’s name should be linked to good things from the very start, because you want them to feel happy and safe when they hear it.
“That’s why I always advise owners not to use their dog’s name when telling them off, as that can weaken the positive association you’re trying to build.”
Choosing the right name is about finding one that suits both the dog and their family, while supporting training, clear communication, and everyday life.
Here are Hannah’s top tips for choosing the perfect puppy name.
Choose two-syllable names
A two-syllable name works wonders for elongating during training or when calling across a field to get a dog’s attention. It’s no surprise that the top three dog names registered with Agria Pet Insurance in 2025 were Luna, Bella, and Willow.
Select a name with multiple vowel sounds
Vowels are easy to elongate for emphasis. For example, Luna could become ‘Luuu-naaa’ when training, praising or walking. Dogs respond more strongly to vowel sounds than consonants, so a name that’s clear, consistent and easy to say will be easier for your puppy to understand. If it feels comfortable rolling off your tongue, you’re far more likely to use it in a warm, encouraging way.
Pick a name with a unique sound
Avoid names that rhyme with common commands like ‘sit’ or ‘stay’, or day-to-day words like ‘walk’ or ‘vet’. This helps your pup distinguish its name from everyday commands and conversation.
Practice saying or shouting the name
Imagine yourself saying the name out loud or even shouting it across a field. Does it sound like a swear word? Would it embarrass you or a family member to say it aloud in public? If so, it’s probably best avoided.
Keep it positive
It’s best to keep a dog’s name neutral or positive, as opposed to having negative connotations. For example, popular ‘human’ names like Charlie and Teddy or a positive-sounding name like Buddy are likely to be perceived as less threatening than Hannibal, Slasher or Bane. It’s worth bearing in mind that names with a negative slant could unintentionally encourage strangers to engage your dog in rough and tumble rather than softer play and cuddles, setting them up for bad habits and potential behavioural issues.
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