Changing a dog's name?

[Three Wolves In Snow]

Originally Posted by *~Kim~*

Anyone ever rescue a dog and change their name? We've been talking about getting a puppy (DH and I, plus talking to our 3 girls about it), but now after some research, rescuing a young dog seems like a much better idea. But the girls are now set on a name for Earl's new "girlfriend" (thinking a female would be a better fit). I'm sure it depends on the dog, but has anyone done it? Or attempted and failed? Tips?

It's probably been suggested but I'm on limited time and don't have the time to read all the posts...

No problem changing their name. When you get the dog and things get settled, start calling the dog by the name you want. Every single time that dog looks at you or reacts when it hears the new name, click and treat, treat, treat.

It won't take very long for that dog to figure out his/her new name.

[ElleTea]

I have 2 chihuahuas, both rescues. The first was my boy Diablo, who was originally named Bailey. Nice name for a female, non-chihuahua, but not for him! He easily made the change to Diablo, and also comes to the name Boogie (short for a nickname...Boogerbutt )

Second dog was named Peanut at the shelter. Well, again, a fine name, but not for my 6 pound black and white chihuahua. I named her Lupe, and again, it took no time at all for her to come to that name.

Yep, like someone said, new home = new name.

[tortuga29]

We did 8 & 9 yrs ago respectively. They're now happy go lucky. We just started calling them their names we wanted right away and they caught on quick.

But my gf and I have "nicknames" for them. It's actually pretty cool. We call them by their nicknames, say when they're out in the yard and they'll coming running to us. But someone else who isn't us, they'll ignore them unless they call them by their real names. Maybe they just respond to us quicker or know better than to ignore us but I like my original explination better.