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Ask Pawfun’s Holistic Dog Trainer: What’s in a Name? Should You Rename Your Adopted Dog?

By Anna Bettina Johnson

How important is a name? Very! Names should have a positive association and your pup should love hearing it!

But, I often work with people who have adopted their canine companion and are afraid to change their name. Most people assume that changing a name is to confusing and hard for the new dog. This is simply not true! In fact, I highly encourage a name change if you have adopted a dog. New home, new life.. new name!

So, how do you change your adopted pup’s name or simply get your current dog to respond immediately to their own name?

Here’s a simple way to train it:

- Start in a quiet area. Say your pup’s name & immediately offer a small, tasty treat. Repeat this often!
- Now that your pup is learning that his new name has a fun (and yummy) association, try calling his name out in the yard with a few more distractions, when he responds, praise & treat.
- Pretty soon, your pup will come quickly & happily when they hear their new name.
- Once you are sure they have it, you can phase the food rewards out slowly.

Teaching your pup to love their name & respond to it accordingly is also a great way to build a bond with your new pup or strengthen the bond with your existing pup.

Happy Training!

Got a dog training question for Anna? Ask it here.

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