What's in a name? Guide to naming your new pet

Expectant parents pore over book after book and list after list to come up with the perfect name for their child. Pet parents are no different. While sometimes a unique physical feature can help conjure up a pet's name, other times individuals need some help with the naming process.

If a new pet joined the family this year, perhaps reviewing the list of the 10 most popular names of 2008, compiled by Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI), the country's largest and oldest provider of pet insurance will offer some inspiration.

Most Popular Cat Names

1. Max

2. Chloe

3. Tigger

4. Tiger

5. Lucy

6. Smokey

7. Oliver

8. Bella

9. Shadow

10. Charlie

There are also some pets that showed up in VPI's database that were quite unusual. Here are the five most unusual names.

Most Unusual Dog Names

1. Rush Limbark

2. Sirius Lee Handsome

3. Rafikikadiki

4. Low Jack

5. Meatwad

Most Unusual Cat Names

1. Edward Scissorpaws

2. Sir Lix-a-lot

3. Optimus Prrrime

4. Buddah Pest

5. Snoop Kitty Kitty

If these names do not seem to fit your pet, you will need to think of your own name. Keep in mind that experts say giving your pet the wrong name could potentially lead to learning difficulties, behavioral issues and problems with name recognition. There is an art to picking the right pet names. Here are some tips to consider:

* Choose one- or two-syllable names, which are easier for pets to understand and respond to.

* Avoid names that are similar to obedience commands. For example, "Joe" may sound too close to "No."

* Don't give pets and children similar names or it could cause confusion.

* Choose a name that is easy to call and not embarrassing.

* Select names that coincide with breed lineage. A German Shepherd could be Bernard or Fritz.

* Personality traits could also work well for names.