The public can help Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin choose the name for his new pup, a source in his press service said on Tuesday.

Anybody can send their suggestions to the premier's website, www.premier.gov.ru.

The Karakachan puppy was given to Putin by Bulgarian Prime Minister Boyko Borisov after talks in Sofia last Saturday. Russia's man of deeds hugged it affectionately and kissed it on the nose.

According to other sources, the puppy's new name should start with the letter J that sounds like a 'y' in the Scandinavian or German names of Jorg or Johann. All of the puppies of each litter by the new pup's mother receive a name starting with the same letter alphabetically. The puppies in the first litter were all named starting with the letter A, the second litter with the letter B and so on.

The source said the puppy will live in Putin's Novo-Ogaryovo residence outside Moscow.

He said it had already been introduced to Putin's most famous pet, a black Labrador named Connie.

"Of course, it is very important how they arrange their relationship," the source said.

The premier's household has two other canine pets, two poodles, who will also have to adapt to the new family member. The poodles are said to belong to Putin's wife, Lyudmila.

MOSCOW, November 16 (RIA Novosti)