What's In A Name?

Dogism is obviously all about the uniqueness of your relationship with your dog. A name can be a large part of that relationship. There are times when you do not choose your dogs name, especially in rescue or foster cases. Usually though, you find the name is well suited. For those names that we do choose, there are defining factors that usually relate to what we are passionate about. My brother named his dog Lotus, a definite clue about his love for sports cars. Luey is partly a tribute to his mother’s name, Lu Lu. It is also a tribute to a favorite Tampa Bay Lightning player, Martin St. Louis (pronounce it like the French do, not the city in Missouri). When St. Louis scores, the classic “Louie Louie” by Richard Berry is played. Jason will tell you that is only part of the story. Yes, St. Louis is an excellent hockey player. Can I help it that he is a hotty as well?
Bailey is a tribute to my mother. She had chosen the name Bailey (after the irish cream, one her favorite special treats) for the Cavalier King Charles puppy she decided on after the death of her beloved Sheltie. She was never able to have her Bailey, so I believe she sent me one.

Sometimes, your dog chooses their name for you. We had a chow chow named Kodiak because he resembled a bear. My Aunt and Uncle once had a Ryder after finding their puppy was a “good rider” in the car. You never know where inspiration will strike.
This is clear by the top dog names of 2010. It is not a surprise that people would name there furry friend “Buddy” or after the King himself, Elvis. I must admit, I did not see “Oprah” as a top dog name. 15 years from now, you can use this list to remember the pop culture of the time. Maybe it is just me, but Lady Gaga does seem a more fitting name for a dog than a person…

There are no rules or judgments (shame on me) when it comes to naming your dog, as long as it is all part of your dogism.

See the top dog names of 2010 at dogchannel.com