Popular TV shows and movies, for a start. We've had lots of people calling their pets Oscar and Lucinda since the movie came out, says Amy. We've also had quite a few Xenas. Disney movies have a big impact. When Aladdin was out, pets were being called Rajah and Jasmine, and when The Lion King was around, it was Simba and Nala.
People looking for more individual names for their pets get their inspiration from anywhere.
There's the appearance of the dog. Or, if you're prepared to wait until you get to know your dog first, there's the personality to work from. Frisky and Sparky are possibilities, but so are Braindead and Couch Potato. For the messy eater, Slobberchops might be appropriate, and for the escape artist, Houdini seems ideal. And, considering most dogs receive their names as puppies, don't be surprised to meet Damage, Mayhem, Havoc, Pandemonium and Shenanigans.