Can You Rename a Dog?

Is it okay to rename a rescue dog?

If you’ve ever adopted a dog, you’ve probably thought about changing a dog’s name. I’m here to tell you, there is no good reason for your adopted pup not to have a new name to go along with his brand new leash on life! (See what I did there? 😂)

Rescued yellow lab at park by waterside — I’ve always wanted a yellow lab named Lemon!

Should I change my rescue dog’s name?

I can’t say you should, or that you shouldn’t. But if you’re asking this question, you’re probably looking for support of doing just that. Permission granted!

Dog looking out front door over Hello welcome mat — Hello, My Name Is Olive.

Is it bad to change a dog’s name?

In a word, no. It might actually be a good thing! If your dog came from a shelter or rescue, there is a high probability that the name isn’t really “their” name after all. And having recently picked up this moniker, it shouldn’t be too tough to change it. After all, part of the fun of bringing a new dog into your life is choosing what to call them as their personality emerges!

Rescued dog named Ruby — Ruby the Kangaruby.

Three Labradors of varied colors sitting on a fuzzy white rug in front of a shiplap wall

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changing a Dog’s Name might be a good thing!

Another positive reason for renaming your rescued dog: Their old name could have negative associations with it. Being in the shelter system can be extremely stressful for dogs (this is why fostering a dog is so valuable for their wellbeing, but that’s a topic for another post!). If their name came with them from a former life, there’s a decent chance some baggage is coming along with it.

Three labs on a round flowered rug — The S’mores Gang.

How do you teach a dog a new name?

Let’s clear one thing up. It does not matter if the new name you choose sounds similar to the old one or not. Don’t let yourself be limited by this misconception. All three of my girls have names that are completely different from their former names. So how do you do it? Practice, practice, practice! And lots of praise and treats!