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.
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. Put simply, dogs hear names like Charley, Sugar, Colly much better than Knecht-Ruprecht or Jeremy-Pascal.
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.
Names with consonants, such as "Lucky" or "Charlie," make sharp sounds that pups easily understand. Along with including consonant sounds, long vowel sounds ("ay" or "ee") at the end of the name further help grab your dog's attention.
They found that the most exciting words were “walkies” (equivalent to “walk” or even “outside”), “dinner/food/eat”, “treat”, “get it”, and “fetch”. Naming a toy, using the dog's name, or calling the dog a good boy or girl were also exciting for the dogs (and are some of the most commonly understood words, too5)!
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.
Over time, a dog associates their name with something positive, so hearing their name becomes a cue to get their attention. Also, dogs are highly attuned to human voice patterns and can discern specific words, including their names, through the tone, pitch, and inflection used by their owners.
Dogs have been part of human society longer than any other domestic species, and research indicates that dogs understand human emotions and words—including their own name—better than you might think.
Shortened versions of traditional human names like Charlie, Lucy, Max, Daisy, and Penny are also popular choices. Dog parents also seem to like old fashioned, American-style names like Buddy, Cooper, Tucker, and Harley, as well.
Wait until your dog is not looking at you and then say the name in a very bright and happy tone. As soon as your dog turns to look at you, mark this with a clicker or a word to let the dog know this is the right reaction, a word like “yes” or “good,” and then immediately give your dog a treat.
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.
Some pet parents may choose a name that includes sweetness in the definition like Jarah, Esti, or Vevina, or a name that is actually the word for sweet or sweetness in another language, such as Doux, Magus, or Misti.
Kalil: Arabic, translates to “loyal friend” Luxman: Indian, translates to “loyal”