How to Rename Your Dog After Adoption
"Sometimes when you adopt a new dog, that dog may come with a name you don’t particularly like. You may get your dog home & realize he doesn’t fit the name he had or their name isn’t something you like... And, although it may seem difficult to rename a dog, it’s actually quite easy.
Can you change a dog’s name?
It’s true, you can change a dog’s name, no matter how old they may be. Even if you adopt an older dog, they will eventually learn their new name. Dogs are adaptable & after a few days of being told their new name they will catch on. Most dogs may not even notice the change, particularly since humans have several nicknames for their dogs, & oftentimes dogs respond to all their names.
With the adoption of a new puppy from a breeder, the same is true. They were probably given a shelter name at birth but, unless you are buying a working dog, show dog, or service dog, they probably haven’t had a lot of experience responding to their name. Changing it to something new on day one shouldn’t cause any real issues. Dogs don’t have the concept of identity like we do. In some cases, a name change can be good for pets, particularly if they came from an abusive home.
Do you need to pick a similar name?
There is no age that’s too late to rename a dog. Even though it may seem easier to change a dog’s name early in its life, you can change its name at any time. Honestly, dogs don’t really care what you call them, as long as they are treated well & know they belong to you. Give her a nickname or completely change her name, your new pup will adapt just fine.
Your dog’s new name should only mean good things to him. There are many ways to teach your pup his new name but the easiest is just to say your dog’s new name repetitively & in happy tones & they’ll eventually adapt.
Introducing Their New Name
Let’s say you pick up a shelter dog or select your dog from pet adoption, & you get him home & want to change his name; once you decide on a new name for him, it’s time to start introducing their name. For the first few days you’re using your dog’s new name, carry treats in your pocket. When you want her attention, call out her new name. Praise her for understanding her new name by giving positive reinforcement. Usually, within a few weeks, your pup will completely understand their new name & forget their old name even existed.
The Name Game
If your new companion still doesn’t adapt or reply to its new name you can try the 'name-change method'.
1. Say your dog’s original name & when they reply say 'yes!' & reward them. Try this at least 5 times.
2. Then begin introducing their new name by saying the new name & follow it with their old name, pausing briefly in between names. Reward your dog when they look at you. Repeat this step a few times.
3. And then, say only your dog’s new name & reward them when they look at you. Repeat this over & over until they catch on.
Avoid Punishing With Their Name
Your pup should understand that their new name is linked to positivity, which is why it’s important to focus on praise with their new name before ever using punishment. Avoid yelling at them with their new name. Some suggest giving your dog a nickname that’s linked to negativity. If your good boy starts to develop bad behaviors that you need to correct, use an alternative nickname or give them a middle name. So they know which name is linked to their negative actions.
Reward with Treats
Just like potty training, use treats to help your pup learn their new name... When your pup responds, use treats over & over. After the first few days your new friend will catch on & you can stop using treats & move on to just praising them.
Tips to help your rescue dog learn their new name
If you don’t like your dog’s previous name & you’re working to change it, here are some tips that should help:
1. Decide on a new name right away & stick with that name.
2. Carry treats with you at all times.
3. Immediately smile & praise him with treats when he replies to his new name.
4 Don’t scold your pup while using their new name.
5. Be consistent. Repeat, repeat, repeat.
How long does it take for a dog to learn their new name?
Every doggy is different but to successfully teach your dog his name make the learning process pleasant & rewarding. With consistent training over a 2 week period, your pup can start responding to his name within as little as 2 days. Regardless of the name you give your new pup, he will learn to respond to it & eventually will forget he ever had another name."
Amanda Guagliardo
blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com
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