Name for my biz: Can I use one that's in use in another part of the country?

Question

I am a dog trainer and I used to work for a company. Now I work on my own. I am trying to come up with a name for my business. For now I am using Caiti the Dog Training Lady, but friends and family don't like it. I don't like it either, but every time I think of something I google it and there is already another business with that name. Usually the business is far away and its not always for dog training. For example, there is a far away biz called Good Dog Agility Club, and there is a sort of nearby biz called What A Good Dog! dog training. What are the rules about naming my business? Any suggestions on a name are welcome, too!

Thanks for the advice. I really like the name Sit n Stay, but I looked it up and its already a business close by :(

Answer 1

If they don't have it registered in your county or state you can use it. I would avoid it because a company might expand.
Some names will be in many places because they are so ordinary like Betty's Cut and Curl might be in 3-4 states as unrelated businesses.
Waggin Tails is probably the same sort of name for dog businesses.
I would name a Dog Training business:
Sit n Stay
The Dog training academy
A Well Trained Dog
The Master's voice

Answer 2

Two things to consider: you have to file a fictitious business name statement (or your local equivalent) with your county, that will tell you if the name is in use in your area. The other issue is if someone anywhere has registered that name as a trademark. If so, they can send you a cease and desist letter requiring you to change the name; if you don't the can file suit.

In your case, I don't think registered trademarks are likely to be an issue, so just register with your county.

Answer 3

You certainly can. However the thing to remember is this: if someone googles you and they get the other business listing first, then you will lose business.