There are many reasons why you might want to change your pet dog's name. Fortunately, dogs can learn to recognize their name relatively quickly and easily, as well as a new name. By following a basic training program and constant effort, you can introduce your dog to a new name and get him to respond to this new name in just a few days!
Step
Part 1 of 2: Choosing a Name
Step 1. Rest assured that changing the dog's name is not a problem
Although the dog may be confused at first, he will soon understand. In addition, many experts recommend changing the name of dogs that are known or suspected to be victims of abuse or have lived in an unhealthy environment. In this condition, the dog may associate his real name with punishment, torture, and fear. In this way, you not only change his name, but also help him recover from the trauma.
There's no need to feel guilty about changing your dog's name, as long as the previous owner didn't specifically ask you not to
Step 2. Choose a new dog name
After deciding to change the dog's name, the next step is to choose a new name. Read the article on how to name a dog or puppy for more advice. Here are some basic guidelines:
- If you know his real name, consider choosing a similar one so your dog can understand it more easily. For example, choose a name that rhymes or begins with the same sound.
- Generally, dogs are easier to recognize short names consisting of 1-2 syllables, such as Ruby, Bonnie, Billy, etc.
- Try to use "hard" consonants like "k", "d", and "t". These letters are easier for dogs to hear and distinguish than soft consonants like "f," "s," or "m." For example, the names Katie, Deedee, and Tommy will be more quickly recognized and responded to by dogs than Fern or Shana.
- Avoid names that sound like commands to a typical dog, such as "sit," "don't," "sleep," etc. A name like this will make it difficult for your dog to figure out what you are commanding him to do.
- Avoid choosing names that resemble the names of other family members or pets. This can confuse the dog and hinder the learning process.
- Avoid using temporary nicknames until you find the right one. Temporary nicknames can confuse your dog, making it more difficult for you to change the name.
Step 3. Share your dog's new name with the whole family
Before you start retraining your dog, make sure everyone knows and agrees with the dog's new name. Dogs will be confused if called by several different names. In addition, the process of training the dog will be more harmonious once everyone knows the new name.
Part 2 of 2: Teaching Dogs New Names
Step 1. Prepare a treat for the dog
Teaching a dog a new name is like teaching anything else. Just like practicing the "sit" command, your dog should associate his new name with treats and attention as a form of positive encouragement. Give dog treats to the whole family, and ask them to call the dog's new name every now and then and give him treats.
Be sure to always call the dog's name in a positive tone of voice. Don't call your dog in an angry or irritated tone, or when you punish him and say "no." The dog should be able to associate his new name with a positive experience, not punishment and sadness. Also make sure all your family members understand this
Step 2. Take the dog to a quiet place
Try a quiet backyard or garden so that no other dog will distract your dog. You can also start the exercise process at home. You can train your dog on a leash or not.
Step 3. Begin by saying his new name in a cheerful and happy voice
Then, give him a treat and a compliment. Repeat this step several times for 5 minutes. Dogs will quickly understand that when their new name is called, they should focus on the person calling them.
- Don't train your dog for too long, as they have a short attention span and get bored easily.
- Try to train your dog several times a day. Outside of training sessions, you should also use your dog's new name when talking to him. In addition, you can also call the dog's name when he's not paying attention, as long as you don't overdo it. If your dog responds, be sure to give him lots of treats and compliments.
Step 4. Call the dog by name when he is not paying attention to you
After training your dog a few times when he notices you, wait until he doesn't see you before calling his name. Again, say his name in a cheerful and happy tone.
If your dog is on a leash and doesn't turn to face you when called, gently tug on his body when he calls his name again, then offer lots of compliments and treats. This step will help your dog associate his name with a positive experience
Step 5. Gradually stop giving treats to dogs
Once your dog has responded consistently to his new name call, it's time to stop giving him treats. Start with alternating treats when she responds and work when she hears her name being called. Then, gradually reduce the treats until they are no longer needed.
Step 6. Keep trying
While it may take your dog some time to get used to his new name, if you use it frequently in a cheerful voice, along with treats and praise, your dog will quickly respond to your name whenever you call it.
