'Max' Top Name for Dogs and Cats for Fifth Year in a Row

Say farewell to Fido and so long to Spot. According to Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI), the nation's oldest and largest provider of pet health insurance, Max is the most popular dog and cat name for the fifth consecutive year. Following are the 10 most common dog and cat names based on a recent analysis of VPI's 450,000 insured pets:

              Dogs                               Cats
            1. Max                              1. Max
            2. Molly                            2. Chloe
            3. Buddy                            3. Lucy
            4. Bella                            4. Tigger
            5. Lucy                             5. Tiger
            6. Maggie                           6. Smokey
            7. Daisy                            7. Oliver
            8. Jake                             8. Bella
            9. Bailey                           9. Sophie
           10. Rocky                           10. Princess

"The continuing popularity of Max is largely due to the fact that it is monosyllabic and simple for people and pets to remember, yet easy to distinguish from common commands," said Dr. Carol McConnell, vice president and chief veterinary officer for VPI. "Plus, it's a fitting name for an active, energetic pet."

Few of the names on the top 10 dog and cat names list are traditional pet names. In fact, some of the top 10 names, or close variations, appear on the Social Security Administration's list of most common baby names. Jacob (Jake) is the top name for boys, while Isabella (Bella) is No. 4 for girls, and Sophia ranks ninth on both the SSA's list and VPI's cat name list. Ironically, Max is far from the top at No. 160.

"When people consider their pet an integral part of the family, they are more inclined to choose a human name for it," said McConnell. "The prevalence of pets with human names clearly reflects the growing human-animal bond."

Each of this year's top 10 dog names appeared on last year's list. Bella made the most impressive jump, going from No. 8 to No. 4, while Bailey fell from No. 2 to No. 9. For the cats, Simba, Angel, and Shadow dropped off this year's list, making way for Princess, Sophie, and Bella.

About Veterinary Pet Insurance

Veterinary Pet Insurance Co./DVM Insurance Agency is the nation's oldest and largest pet health insurance company. Providing pet owners with peace of mind since 1982, the company is committed to being the trusted choice of America's pet lovers and an advocate of pet health education. VPI Pet Insurance plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Optional Pet WellCare Protection(SM) for routine care is also available.

Source: Veterinary Pet Insurance Co./DVM Insurance Agency

Web site: http://www.petinsurance.com/