Are Pet Names Safe as Passwords?

Using a pet’s name as a password might feel personal and easy to remember, but is it actually secure? Many people rely on pet names for passwords, often without realizing how predictable they can be.

Why People Use Pet Names as Passwords

Pet names are emotionally meaningful and easy to recall. Names like Bella, Max, or Luna are commonly used because they feel unique and familiar.

Unfortunately, these same qualities make them attractive targets for hackers.

Why Hackers Love Pet-Name Passwords

Cybercriminals often use automated tools that test common words and names. Pet names are widely shared on social media, making them even easier to guess.

• Pet names are short and predictable
• They’re often reused across multiple accounts
• Many people add only simple numbers or symbols

Common Pet-Name Password Mistakes

These examples may look stronger than a plain name, but they’re still weak:

• Bella123
• Max2024
• Luna!
• CharlieDog

How to Make a Pet-Name Password Stronger

You can still use your pet’s name — you just need to add complexity. A strong password should include:

• Uppercase and lowercase letters
• Numbers that aren’t obvious (not birth years)
• Special characters
• Extra words or separators

For example, instead of Bella123, try something like:
BeLLa#Run$82