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How to Pick the Best Dog Name

Last week, we wrote about the 10 Most Popular (and Wacky) Dog Names of 2008. Well, the reader response was incredible, and so we’ve decided to continue the conversation about names and delve deeper into the subject. There are nearly 50 million households in America with a dog, and collectively we’re welcoming thousands of new pooches into our homes every day. But with all of these new four-legged residents, a common question continues to surface: What should I name my dog?

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Seek Input from the Entire Family

Over the next few weeks, we are going to extensively cover the topic of dog names and share with you surefire ways to find the perfect name for your pooch. Are you just going for the most popular? Or do you want the weirdest, strangest, most unusual? Perhaps you’re seeking female dog names or male dog names. Ah, you want cute names for small dogs, right? Big dogs? Well, no matter what criteria you’ve established, we’re going to cover them all.

We continue to hear about your household angst surrounding this major decision, but naming your dog doesn’t have to be so agonizing. In reality, this is a joyous occasion, and the naming process should be creative and fun. You probably just need some suggestions to get those creative juices flowing; well that’s where we come in.

In fact, here’s a quick preview of what we’ll be discussing over the next few weeks in this new series…

Music Makes for Great Dog Names
Here is one example of how some family friends of ours chose a name for their newly-adopted pup. The parents brainstormed on their all-time favorite musicians—I’m talking all the way from Miles Davis, Johnny Cash, and Otis Redding on up to Notorious BIG and Mariah Carey. Avid music lovers, the couple then wrote each name on a piece of paper, put them in a hat, and asked their baby girl to pick one. And that was it…they had a name!

An even more creative solution (if an “unusual name” is your goal) would have been to place all of the artists’ first names (i.e. Miles, Otis, Mariah, and Notorious) into one hat, and then place all of their last names (i.e. Davis, Redding, Carey, and Cash) into a separate hat. Then, their daughter could have selected a random first name and then paired it with a random last name. What do you think of these potential titles:

  • Mariah Redding
  • Notorious Cash
  • Otis Davis
  • Miles Carey

Also, think about your favorite song titles, lyrics, and instruments. The only rule in naming your dog is…there are no rules! Think outside of the doggy box, and find a totally unique word to describe your totally unique pooch.

The Ultimate Dog Name Guide
Be sure to check in over the next few weeks as we review all the best ways to find a perfect name for your dog. We’ll go over the most popular, weirdest, strangest, and most unusual…names for female dogs, male dogs, small dogs, big dogs. And what if you already have a dog–or if you adopt siblings–and you need complimentary names? Or perhaps you want to honor your pooch with the family surname…oh boy, this is getting serious. We’ll cover all of this and more, so make sure you subscribe for new updates and get the latest articles delivered directly into your email box.

How did you name your dog? We’d love to know!

Breed Spotlight: Pug

At 14-18 pounds, Pugs are the largest of the toy breeds. Pugs are famous for outrageous looks, a smushed-in flat face, and wrinkles like an old man. Starring in the movie Men in Black, an alien was even disguised as a Pug. In fact, many casual observers lovingly agree that Pugs do appear somewhat extraterrestrial.

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'Frank the Pug' from MIB

Alien…Or Little Clown?

The Pug’s outrageous appearance meshes well with its over-the-top personality. If you’re searching for a dog you can dress up in the latest designer threads, the Pug may be for you. They love pleasing their owner, and these little comedians even thrive on making people laugh. They don’t just love attention, they live for it! And as you can probably guess by now, they don’t like to be alone.

Pugs are coach potatoes at heart. Always available to catch a movie or read a book (with you of course), this breed is very sensitive to the tone of your voice and can detect when you are happy or sad. And even though they are incredibly intelligence, Pugs are also famous for their stubbornness. So here’s what you’ll get…you can teach them loads of tricks for showing off, but they might not always want to do them. This stubborn nature is the inner Pug clown, no doubt, as they are always fooling around (and testing you).

Snore, Sniff, Snort (and, ummm, other things)

The Pug isn’t much of a barker, so they’re ideal apartment dogs. Oh, but don’t misunderstand. You see, even though they aren’t loud barkers, Pugs do make noise…lots of it. Anyone who’s ever spent time around a Pug knows about their signature snoring, sniffing, snorting, and wheezing. This is due to the compressed shape of their faces.

Caring for a Pug

Pugs require work. Although they don’t require long walks or exercise sessions, Pugs do need a constant, watchful eye.  Also, due to their unique facial shape (see above), they cannot pant like most dogs. As a result, be careful when outside in the heat with your Pug since panting is how dogs cool off. In fact, a Pug should never be left outside alone—and shouldn’t stay outside in warm weather (80 degrees Fahrenheit) for more than 10-15 minutes at a time. Also, never leave this dog (or any other) inside a hot car while you shop or talk to your friends.

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Could You Love This Face?

The pugs’ wrinkles can actually trap moisture, which leads to yucky bacteria. To prevent yuckiness (a very sophisticated medial word, I know;) you should clean off your Pug’s wrinkles at least once a week with a tissue or small towel. As for shedding, don’t be fooled by their small size! Pugs actually shed a lot, so a good brushing once a week will keep those hairs off of your clothes and couch.

Training

Due to the stubborn nature, Pugs may be difficult to housebreak—like many other small dogs. Of course, this doesn’t mean it can’t be done. You’ve just got to invest time and remain patient. If you’re considering a pug, then talk to a trainer about the best ways to teach your pup to go outside. You also may need some puppy paper and a quality all-natural odor eliminator.

Health

Pugs are prone to a several health problems. In addition to breathing ailments, they also may develop minor knee problems. Also, Pug Dog Encephalitis is a condition specific to this breed. It’s actually a swelling of the brain that may cause seizures in younger dogs. Despite these problems, Pugs are actually quite hearty. They typically live 12-14 years, although many pugs live much longer.

Smile and Laugh

If you enjoy life and love to smile and laugh, then a Pug may be the perfect pup for you. And if you can put up with snorts, snores and wheezes, then you’re armed with the proper temperament for this small bundle of joy.

If you are considering a pug, please check out our artilce on how to find the perfect breeder.  Do you have any Pug stories? We’d love to hear them!

Most Popular (and Wacky) Dog Names

In our heart of hearts, we all knew this was coming…and just like the Hollywood babies, our nation’s pups are getting more, ahem, *unique* names these days. According to the Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI) database of nearly a half-million dog names, the most popular come as no surprise. You’ve got the typical Max, Molly, Lucy, and Daisy…awww so cute!

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"Edward Scissorpaws" or "Sir Lix-a-Lot"?

But VPI wasn’t done combing the data. They decided to examine the most unusual canine names as well. And these are…well, see for yourself:

  1. Rush Limbark
    Political views aside, this one’s kind of adorable. You know, in that can’t-stand-to-hear-other-people-say-my-dog’s-name kind of way.
  2. Sirius Lee Handsome
    Clever, very catchy. But a three-word name? Sounds too serial killer-ish.
  3. Rafikikadiki
    Even though it takes multiple attempts to slooowly sound this one out, I can see the appeal of various nicknames (i.e. “Raf”, “Kik”, and “Freaky Diki”).
  4. Low Jack
    Do you really want to name your pooch after a car anti-theft system? Why not just go with “The Club” or “Door Lock”?
  5. Meatwad
    This one’s not terrible. It’s vivid, unique. While we’re on the carnivorous path, I’ll toss in “Meatball”, “Meat-head”, and “Meatie Pie”.
  6. Peanut Wigglebutt
    Very good! I don’t think it’s the “Peanut” part so much as it is “Wigglebutt”. We have a friend here in Atlanta who’s Beagle has the Wiggliest butt of them all.
  7. Scuddles Unterfuss
    Certainly one of the most intellectual names on the list. I have a sneaky suspicion there’s a pop culture reference at play here but can’t put my finger on it…any ideas?
  8. Sophie Touch & Pee
    Is this the dog’s name or a description of how she acts? Quick disclaimer, any name which contains a bodily fluid is out of bounds.
  9. Admiral Toot
    I can see many a toy breeds with this cuddly title. But I wonder, does “Toot” refer to farting? If so, are you admitting that your pooch is ranked the highest in passing gas?
  10. Spatula
    Ahhh, and here it is. One word. Simple and to the point. Where would the world be without the spatula? No omelets or pancakes…no way to get the last bit of brownie batter out of the bowl…but I still can’t imagine yelling “Spatula!” at the top of my lungs across the dog park.

The Traditional Top 10

In case you’re wondering, here are the actual “most popular” dog names for ’08:

  1. Max
  2. Bailey
  3. Bella
  4. Molly
  5. Lucy
  6. Buddy
  7. Maggie
  8. Daisy
  9. Sophie
  10. Chloe
What are your favorite dog names? We’d love to know what you think!

Lab Remains Most Popular Breed in 2008

The American Kennel Club just released its list of the 10 most popular purebred dog breeds in the United States, as measured by registrations. And for the 18th straight year, the Labrador Retriever barks atop the list. In fact, the standards organization reported twice as many Labs registered as compared to the Yorkshire Terrier, which is listed as the second-most popular breed for 2008. Oh, and in case you’re scoring at home, here’s the entire top 10 list:

    Lab Most Popular Image

    Lab is Top Dog in '08

  1. Labrador retriever
  2. Yorkshire terrier
  3. German shepherd
  4. Golden retriever
  5. Beagle
  6. Boxer
  7. Dachshund
  8. Bulldog
  9. Poodle
  10. Shih tzu

Do you see any surprises on the list? Tell us what you think!

Best Dog Breeds for an Active Lifestyle

Do you run 5 miles a day? Is rollerblading your life’s passion? Or maybe you love to hang-ten on your surfboard a few times per week? Is the ski slope your home away from home? Perhaps you’re thinking of buying a bicycle…and need a four-legged training partner to join you on the trail?

Labrador Retriever Splashing in Water

Labrador Retriever Splashing in Water

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you’ll need a dog with the physical ability to keep up. Certain low-energy dog breeds are ideal couch potatoes and can happily lounge around the house all day; this is probably not what you want. Because of your sporty lifestyle, your pooch is gonna run 5 miles and then swim in the lake for a few hours without breaking a sweat. She’ll gladly trot along beside you on the countryside bike ride; hey, she’ll even hop on the surfboard as the monster waves cause a major wipeout. These dogs are also excellent competitors in organized sports such as agility and flyball. They love to compete just as much as you do. As a result, one of these breeds may be the perfect outdoor companion. Never moody and always on time, all your energetic pup asks for in return is a ball of food, a game of fetch, daily exercise, and a lot of love.

Australian Shepherd Agility Dog

Australian Shepherd on Agility Course

1. Australian Shepherd

With its amazing agility and powerful body, the Australian Shepherd (or “Aussie”) can work a full day without sacrificing speed or stamina. Aussies were originally bred to guard livestock, and to this day, they maintain the genetic drive to herd geese, children, squirrels, and everything else that wanders around. The Australian Shepherd’s temperament can vary from an overly playful pup to an imposing watchdog against intruders. They are typically friendly towards other dogs and pets, but reserved around strange people. With its high threshold for activity, Aussies must have daily physical and mental stimulation. The breed is easily bored, which may result in destructive behavior such as barking, digging, and chewing.

Border Collie Running with Owner

Border Collie Running with Owner

2. Border Collie

Border Collies have enormous amounts of intelligence and are highly obedient. While these attributes are a plus, they can also make for a disastrous house dog when cooped up inside all day with little daily exercise. Border Collies are very loyal and protective, so be prepared for its reserved and guardian-like personality to surface when in the company of strangers. Just as with Aussies, strenuous physical and mental stimulation is necessary every day of the week—no exceptions. We like to say the Border Collie needs a job whenever possible, even if it’s just carrying water in her dog backpack during your daily walks. This breed is highly work motivated and comes pre-wired by Mother Nature for hard labor.

Jack Russell Terrier Surfing

Jack Russell Terrier Surfing

3. Jack Russell Terrier

Always looking for excitement and adventure, the Jack Russell Terrier loves to hunt, chase, and explore. Jack Russells are just as playful as they are energetic, making them excellent dogs to have around children. Beware that the temperament of Jack Russell Terriers can turn from fun-loving to aggressive when it comes across strange pets and people. Nonetheless, this breed truly fits into the family that loves a spunky, on-the-move pooch. Jack Russells absolutely thrive off adventure, and their energy levels are literally “through-the-roof”. As a result, you must provide them with daily exercise and mental games. Jack Russells must have at least two to three brisk walks during the day in addition to play time described above. As with the Aussie, we recommend a weighted dog backpack for your Jack Russell in order to really make her work during those walks. These dogs are famous for their surfing and skate-boarding abilities. At 14-18 pounds, this is the smallest dog on our list, which makes for easy feeding and poop pickup.

Labrador Retriever Holding a Stick in Water

Labrador Retriever Playing in Water

4. Labrador Retriever

The Labrador Retriever is currently listed as the number one registered dog with the AKC and is ranked highly across the board: playfulness, friendliness towards strangers & pets, easy to train, affectionate, and even great watchdog traits. When Labradors are trained, they are friendly and obedient. Labs are especially wonderful around kids, since the breed has a high tolerance for playfulness and childish antics. This dog has its moments of Zen around the house, but can become instantly energetic when stimulated. Labs love to swim and run, but retrieving is at the top of their list. If you can, combine their love for retrieving with water—in a lake or swimming pool—for the total doggy paradise. We’ve found the Water Wubba Fetch Toy (link to Wubba toy) (large size) and AirDog Tennis Stick (link to tennis stick) (large size) work exceptionally well with Labs.

Portuguese Water Dog Diving into Water

Portuguese Water Dog Diving into Lake

5. Portuguese Water Dog

The Portuguese Water Dog is as outgoing as they come, always on the lookout for fun and games. The breed makes an outstanding family pet since they love children and other dogs. Portuguese Water Dogs thrive on human interaction, so plenty of love and attention is required of the owner. The Portuguese Water Dog is one of the most energetic and lively breeds. They have an endless amount of energy and love to swim, run, play, and retrieve. Historically, this breed was a companion and working dog for fishermen, herding fish into nets. As excellent swimmers, they are the perfect dog for boating trips, fishing expeditions and hikes to the lake. It comes as no surprise that vigorous daily exercise is an absolute must for them because, if kept inside all day, then like every other breed on our list, the Portuguese Water Dog can become frustrated and destructive. As an added bonus, this breed is hypoallergenic, so those of you with allergies to dogs can sleep better at night while cuddled up with your Portuguese.

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