Great Names for Dogs or Cats From Shakespeare, Myths, and Other Sources
I am an English teacher who teaches at a state university. I also teach classes online.
If your dog is high energy, consider that when picking a name.
Do You Have a New Pet?
Getting a new pet is so exciting. There is a lot that you need to do to prepare to bring a new pet into your home—and choosing a great name for your new pet is one of the most fun parts.
Some pets may already have a name that was given to them by the rescue group, humane society, or breeder. However, if you're not crazy about the name or want to personalize it, that's okay. Most pets, even adult pets, will adjust to a new name within a few weeks.
Here are some tips for choosing a name for your dog or cat.
Consider Mythology
If you are looking to move beyond the usual pet names such as Spot or Tiger, and you truly want to pick something unique, consider looking at the names in mythology.
You can match a personality with a name from Greek, Roman, or Norse mythology. Think about the characteristics of your specific pet, as well as the characteristics of your pet's breed, when you are looking for that perfect name.
Pet Names Inspired by Norse Mythology
| Name | Who They Were | Pet Characteristics to Go With Name |
|---|---|---|
Loki | Trickster god | Pet that is playful or sneaky |
Odin | God of battle and poetry | A Large muscular pet or one that is beautiful, like a poem |
Saga | Goddess of poetry and runes and drinking buddy of Odin | A beautiful pet or one that came to you when they were older |
Vor | Goddess of knowledge | Great for a particularly smart pet |
Thor | God of sky, thunder and fertility | Great for a large pet or one who is loud |
Vali | Son of Loki, known for turning into a wolf | Great for large dogs with wolf characteristics |
Modgud | Guardian of the bridge | Great for an animal that loves water or one that is a great protector |
Loki might be a good name for a black cat.
Pet Names Inspired by Greek and Roman Mythology
| Greek Name | Roman Name | Who They Were | Pet Characteristics to Go With Name |
|---|---|---|---|
Zeus | Jupiter | Supreme god of all others | Great for a commanding pet or one that is naturally a leader |
Poseidon | Neptune | God of the sea | Use for a pet that loves water |
Artemis | Diana | Goddess of the hunt | Great for a hunting dog or a cat that loves to prowl around |
Athena | Minerva | Goddess of wisdom | Consider for an exceptionally intelligent pet |
Hades | Pluto | God of the underworld | Best for an all black pet or one that is mischevious |
Eros | Cupid | God of love (son of goddess of love) | Good for a very affectionate pet |
Hestia | Vesta | Goddess of hearth and home | Good for a pet that is calm and loves to snuggle on the couch |
Shakespeare can be another great source for fun cat or dog names.
Shakespeare: Another Great Source for Unique Pet Names
What's in a name?
We owe so much of our language, including many everyday expressions, to William Shakespeare. Many of his characters had unique habits, talents, and problems—and many of those same characters would also make great names for pets.
Here are some names to consider from the world of Shakespeare when you are choosing a name for your pet.
Shakespeare Names for Pets
| Name | Characteristics | What kind of pet might fit the name |
|---|---|---|
Ajax | Leader of the Greeks, sometimes makes dumb choices | A pet that's a bit clumsy but friendly |
Amiens | Follower | A pet that follows others around |
Benvolio | Friend of Romeo | Consider for a pet that is great friend, very friendly |
Banquo | Ghost in Macbeth | Great for an all white pet |
Camillo | Loyal companion | A breen that is loyal to its owner. |
Dogberry | A clown | For a pet that's always making you laugh |
Duncan | King | Good for a regal pet |
Jachimo | Villian | Great for a sneaky pet |
Lafew | A Lord | Great for a pet that thinks he's a king |
Leonine | She is ordered to kill but captured by pirates | Could be used for a pet that appears mean but is actually sweet. |
Marina | Virtuous woman | For a very sweet female pet |
Pompey | A clown | Great for a funny pet |
Quintus | Defies his father | Good for a stubborn pet |
Somerset | A follower | Good for a pet that likes everyone |
Stafford | Doesn't speak | Consider for a quieter pet |
Talbot | Brave warrior | Would be good for a bold pet |
Tybalt | Quick tempered | Possible for a pet that's grouchy or short tempered |
Viola | Woman who disguises herself as a man | Good for a female pet that everyone thinks is a boy |
Other Sources for Interesting Pet Names
A pet's name should reflect your personality and theirs.
Consider these ideas to help generate a great name for your pet:
- Foreign countries
- Favorite foods
- Favorite books or characters
- Hobbies
- Sports and sports figures
- TV shows
- Movies
While there is nothing wrong with an ordinary name that is used often, if you are trying to avoid the most commonly used pet names then consider staying away from the following:
- Max, Spot, Buddy, Bear, Ginger, Daisy, Tiger, Sammy, Roxie, Sasha, Pepper, Blackie, Brownie, Moose, Scout, Rosco, Lexi
How to Teach a Dog or Cat Its Name
Once you have picked that great new name for your pet, it's time to get them used to it.
- Use the name consistently and clearly.
- Associate their name with praise. When they respond to their name, pet them and give them a treat.
When you do these things, they will begin to associate their name with themselves. Even cats can learn and respond to their names.
Final Thoughts
Naming a pet can be fun—but it's also an important decision. Remember that you and your pet may have to live with that name for 15 years or more.
Be open to new names and pick something unique. It can be a great conversation starter when someone asks you why you chose a particular name for your pet. Most of all, pick a name that reflects who they are and how they enhance your life and your family.
Comments
Maricar M. Jolo from Jubail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on June 11, 2013:
Good job!
