Choosing The Best Name For Your New Horse

September 3rd, 2009 |

Author: Family Friendly Pets // Pets, Livestock, and Wildlife // ArticlePros.com

There is a certain romance to finding the perfect name for your new horse. The name you will select will last a long time so it is probably a good idea to take your time and get a feel for the new arrival before choosing your new friend’s name. The one thing you want to avoid is selecting a name that you and the horse will regret at a later time.

If your new horse will be registered, you may want to incorporate mention of parentage in the new name. After all, bringing parts of the sire’s name and dam’s name into a great show name continues a tradition. That family tree goes a long way in the horse world.

Perhaps your new horse already has a barn name. You may want to enhance that barn name to arrive at a more fitting show name. Many owners use a personality trait or a distinctive marking to embellish the barn name and arrive at a great show name.

Most horses become the owner’s friend. As the horse’s personality and the friendly relationship unfolds, it is not uncommon to develop a nickname. This name says something about your horse. The nickname might reflect an abundance of spirit or a more laid back disposition. Most nicknames usually consist of two and sometimes three syllables. This name typifies your personal relationship with your horse.

Experienced horse owners do not rush to come up with a nickname or stable name. The owner’s preference to use a nickname is a good reason to use a longer show or registered name. The nickname can always use portions of that name.

If you will show your new horse, the horse must have an official name. Canadian horse owners must have at least three names to qualify as a show horse. The first name is the herd name, breeder’s last name, the name of the farm where the horse was born, or a general name of relevance. The second name is usually the sire’s name. The third name is the subject horse’s name, which must begin with a letter that stands for the year the horse was born. This formula works well as it allows for plenty of nickname potential and provides a show name with a story.

Horses cannot be named after a racetrack. For obvious reasons, new horses cannot be named after horses who have won a big race or achieved a certain level of notoriety. Hey, your horse is unique, why name your best pal after someone else? And, there is really just one Secretariat!

When developing your horse’s name, owners often rehearse the name. Once the name sounds right, go one step further. Pretend you are calling the horse in from the pasture. Does it have a sound that will create notice and a response? Is it distinctive? Does it bond you with your wonderful horse? Does the name fit your horse and would does it do the animal justice?

Think about the descriptive power of nicknames like Thunder, Goliath, Noble, Handsome or Flirt. These names garner attention and paint an image of the horse at the same time. These are effective nicknames that work many ways. As simple as they seem, the owners agonized, considered and mulled over many options before arriving at a happy nickname place. When the decision was finally made, a relationship had already been forged.

A horse’s name is like its facial markings, leg markings or color. The name is your signature for the uniqueness of your new best friend. Do not rush, take your time and come up with a name that makes your and your new pal happy.

Kerrie Tischer is the owner of Livery Stable. If you're in the market to sell or buy a horse, this is the place to start. They offer <a href="http://www.liverystable.net/">horses for sale</a> as well as detailed information on riding, selecting a good horse and much more. Visit online for more information.