Should You Rename Your Rescue Dog? How to Teach a New Name

Q: I adopted an older dog from a shelter who was an owner surrender. He was called Spike and I would like to change his name. Is that possible? Will he learn to respond to a new name?

First, I'd like to commend you on rescuing your dog from a shelter! Knowing your new dog's old name helps, because my first suggestion is to find a similar name to Spike — like Mike or Ike. If you prefer another name, the good news is it's never too late to completely change a dog's name and get him to respond to the new moniker.

Some of the best dogs I've ever met have single-syllable names, but I find that most dogs respond best to two- or three-syllable names ending in "y" or "ie" (like Spikey). Names that sound like "no" — like Bo and Bruno — are usually not ideal.

The name itself isn't nearly as important as how you say it. What matters is the tone and rhythm. You're aiming for a happy, calm, and sweet tone. When you say your dog's name, it means "look at you" — one of the most important things a dog needs to learn.

How to Teach Your Dog Their Name

Hold a treat behind your back or hidden somewhere on your body in close proximity. If you feel lucky, say the new name — and if they look at you, great! Mark it with a click sound or "good girl/boy," say their name again to reinforce it, get eye contact and connect for a second, then immediately give them a treat. Repeat several times.

If you don't feel lucky, don't ask their name over and over again. Wait until they look at you on their own. When they do look at you, bring your hand with the treat to your face for eye contact and label it by saying their name. Pause for a second, take a deep breath, connect, and immediately deliver the treat. Your dog will learn their name in no time!