• Pick a name that the pet can easily recognise. Animals respond better to one or two syllable names.

• Choose a name that’s both easy to call out and one that you are happy calling out. Calling out "Jack" or "Zoe" in the park may be far less embarrassing than calling out than "Death Breath".

• For dogs avoid names that sound like the standard commands of No, Stay, Sit, Come, Down or Fetch. For example "Joe" is probably too close to "No". It can be difficult for dogs to tell the difference between similar sounding words.

• If choosing a long name keep in mind the shortened version. A long name will inevitably be shortened, but it may ruin the effect that you were originally looking for.

• The pet’s breed heritage can provide some useful inspiration. For example Orientals ( Siamese and Burmese) , German (Shepherds, Dachshunds and Schnauzers), French (Poodle), Scottish (Terriers), or Irish (Wolfhounds and Setters). The Human Name and Foreign Name categories may assist here.

• Waiting a few days to study your pets behaviour can help pick the right name. The Personality, Affectionate and Appearance categories may assist here.

• Pick a name that will grow with the pet. For example "Kitten" may be less appropriate for a full grown cat.

Other than this, be adventurous!

Naming pets has far more leeway than naming children, where thought has to be given to peer group acceptance, blending first and last names and how the initials may appear.

Bow Wow Meow has a wide range of Pet Name Categories to select from, and again we hope you find a suitable name for your dog or cat.