Should you give your newly-adopted dog a new name?

PetSmart - Except from the book “The Beagle” copyright 2006 by T.F.H Publications
June 2, 2009

If you want to rename your dog, go right ahead.

While it may take an older dog a while to figure out what you mean, he’ll get it eventually. Dogs don’t internalize a name the way we do; they don’t identify themselves with that particular combination of phonemes. They simply understand that when you make a certain sound, it means something is happening that concerns them. Thus, you won’t hurt his feelings or cause identity confusion, although it is true that unless you really can’t stand your dog's former name, it’s probably easier just to stick with it.  

Need help selecting a new name for your pet? Consult the Pets.com Name Recommender.

Purchase The Beagle and other T.F.H. publications at your local PetSmart store.

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