So, you got a dog. First of all: Congratulations! You made the right choice. The fish was never going to cut it. So now that your puppy is in your new home, you, your partner, and your kids will probably have to have the one, big, long conversation: “What do we name them?” Then comes the discussion. Max, Scout, and Bella are all too common. Steven and Mark are too human and weird. Lord Flufferton is funny but too long, and you might end up calling him Lord, which is an uncomfortably formal name for a dog. There’s a lot to consider. And there are probably more considerations than you might have first thought, too. For instance, did you know that names with vowels are far better? Or that it’s best to avoid those with too many syllables? That’s why we chatted with Nicole Ellis, a certified dog trainer and a member of Rover.com’s Dog People Panel, for some advice on how to choose a name for your dog. Read on to make sure your new pooch’s name is on point.
How much does it cost to own a dog and care for it properly? You may have heard that dogs are expensive. While it’s true that there is an investment involved with dog care, it’s best to understand the details of dog care expenses. On the other hand, you may think that dogs don’t cost much at all. The cost of owning a dog is about more than just food costs. With something like the cost of dog care, it’s all relative.
(more…)