How to Name Your German Shepherd Puppy - Family - Pets

Giving a name for your newly adopted German shepherd puppy can be difficult, especially those that have never done it before. Although the name in itself sounds simple, there's a lot more to it than you really think!

For instance, a good name will somehow appeal particularly for your puppy. Think of the physical characteristics and temperament attributes that could be molded into a great word. Is your puppy a little chubby, aggressive, playful? Does your puppy have some weird shaped spot on his or her coat? Those things are great ways to get ideas for what you can call your puppy. Make a list of all the attributes that you find particularly special about your puppy. Then find words that somehow rhyme or combine to make the perfect name for your little partner.

Now, another thing to consider is that often times names can be associated with the negative terms we may be reinforcing. For example, a name such as "Joe" can be easily confused with "No". To avoid that confusion simply don't name your puppy a name that sounds similar to one of the negative reinforcement words that you will be training later on. Not only names that rhyme with a negative word, but any word that you will use throughout your puppy's lifetime. For example, naming your puppy "Sid" would confuse him when you try to train the command "Sit".

Your puppy's name is for life. Don't pick a name that you're not going to like after a few months! That means don't name him anything that "sounds cool at the moment" but will sound really dumb after a week or two. Spur of the moment names shouldn't happen, even though it really does happen often times. Think to yourself, is this name going to sound appealing to me 3 months from now? Will this name be appropriate after 5 years?

Now if you need some name ideas there are many great ways to find some. Ask around for suggestions on a name for your puppy. Your spouse, parents, girlfriend, or boyfriend, or kids may have a great idea for a name for your puppy. You could also join forums, upload your puppy's picture, and request ideas. I'm sure tons of people would gladly help pick out a name for your cute little German shepherd.

When naming your German shepherd puppy the most important thing to remember is that it's a name that you will love saying for the years to come.

Learn more information on naming a German shepherd puppy.