Choosing just the right name for your Labrador retriever can be difficult. If you get an older dog from a rescue, it may already come with a name. However, just because it came with a name doesn’t mean you have to keep it. Whether the dog
came with a name or didn’t have one at all, you may want to choose a name that fits the dog itself. There is no right or wrong way to name a dog, but some people work hard to find the best fit.
The appearance of your dog can help you find the perfect name. Labrador dogs come in three different colors: black, yellow and chocolate. The color of your dog can give you inspiration for the right name, such as “Cocoa” for a chocolate lab. If your dog has any distinctive markings, you can use that to name your dog as well. For instance, if the dog has a puff of white fur on the end of its tail or on the forehead, “Star” may be a good name.
When you first bring your Labrador retriever home, watch the way it acts. Some dogs will give you a clue to the right name in their behavior. If you have a dog that runs all over the place, you might want to consider the name “Dasher.” Or if your dog’s favorite game is playing fetch, you could name it “Fetch.” Just about anything works for a dog name; however, you need to avoid using names that sound similar to commands you will use.
Pay attention to the names of other dogs that frequent the area near your home. It is best to avoid giving your dog a name that is the same as other dogs that live near you or a similar name to a family member. Any name that can be confused with someone else or another dog isn’t a good idea. You want to choose something that will indicate you are talking to your dog.
While you may want to name your Labrador retriever as soon as you bring it home, the name can wait a few days if you need it. Paying attention to your dog’s appearance and its behavior can help you come up with the perfect name. As you consider all of your name options, make sure you avoid choosing one that too closely matches a family member or another dog that lives nearby.
