Written by: Apurva Pawar
March 29, 2025

Choosing the perfect name for your new dog is an exciting experience, but with so many names, it can be really confusing. A dog’s name is very important as it becomes an integral part of their identity, and it is something you’ll say countless times. 

Understanding the current trends in dog names can help you find inspiration and decide what name sounds perfect for you as a pet owner. 

In this article, we will discuss the most popular dog names in different categories, providing explanations and factors to consider when making this important decision.

Top 10 Most Popular Dog Names

Selecting a name for your new best friend is a significant first step in your journey together. Many factors can influence this decision, from personal preferences to the dog’s unique personality. 

Here is a list of the top 10 most popular dog names according to the current trends and timeless favorites among dog owners.

1. Bella

This elegant Italian name, which means “beautiful,” has consistently ranked high in popularity, particularly for female dogs. Its soft sound and positive connotation make it a charming choice for a beloved pet.

Bella
Source: Pinterest (@shaylapiccinich)

2. Max

A classic and strong-sounding name of Latin origin, meaning “greatest,” Max remains a steadfast favorite for male dogs. Its simplicity and familiarity contribute to its enduring appeal.

Max
Source: Pinterest (@greer4567)

3. Charlie

This friendly and approachable name, often a diminutive of Charles meaning “free man,” is popular for both male and female dogs. Its cheerful vibe makes it a fitting choice for a playful companion.

Charlie
Source: Pinterest (@Rottielover01)

4. Rocky

This name goes perfectly well with both sturdy, resilient dogs with tough exteriors or cute-looking small dogs. It’s popular for aggressive dogs like bulldogs and boxers and also among small dogs with active nature.

Rocky
Source: Pinterest (@workingdogsintheworld)

5. Cooper

This traditionally male name of English origin has gained popularity for its friendly and slightly rugged feel. It suits dogs with a playful and adventurous spirit.

Cooper
Source: Pinterest (@freepik)

6. Daisy

A cheerful and nature-inspired name, Daisy evokes images of springtime and happiness. This popular choice for female dogs is often associated with a sweet and gentle temperament.

Daisy
Source: Pinterest (@thecandiedotcom)

7. Milo

This charming and energetic name of German origin has gained huge popularity in recent years. Its playful sound makes it a great fit for dogs with lively personalities.

Milo
Source: Pinterest (@dachshundloverscommunity)

8. Luna

This mystical and elegant name of Latin origin, meaning “moon,” has become increasingly popular for female dogs. Its celestial association and soft sound make it a good choice for dogs that have white fur.

Luna
Source: Pinterest (@florisk9s)

9. Oliver

This classic and sophisticated name of Latin origin, meaning “olive tree,” is a popular choice for male dogs. Its timeless appeal and gentle sound contribute to its popularity.

Oliver
Source: Pinterest (@wagwalking)

10. Bailey

This friendly and approachable name of English origin, meaning “bailiff,” is popular for both male and female dogs. Its versatility and pleasant sound make it a widely loved choice.

Bailey
Source: Pinterest (@EnglishTeddybearGoldendoodles)

Top 100 Most Popular Dog Names

Apart from the top 10, there are also many other names that pet owners love. This section covers names ranked from 11 to 100, offering a wide variety of options.

11. Teddy

Brings a cuddly charm of teddy bears; this name is perfect for affectionate, huggable dogs. It’s especially popular for fluffy breeds like Goldendoodles and Bichon Frises.

Teddy
Source: Pinterest (@emmasonderman)

12. Leo

This strong name of Latin origin, meaning “lion,” has gained significant popularity among male dogs. Its confident sound and association with courage make it an attractive option.

Leo
Source: Ottogsd

13. Rosie

Sweet and classic, Rosie carries warmth and friendliness. It’s commonly chosen for dogs with reddish tints to their coat or rosy dispositions.

Rosie
Source: Pinterest (@pawzooks)

Here is the list of the top 100 most popular dog names, starting from number 14

Sn. No.Names
14Winston
15Ruby
16Jack
17Lola
18Buddy
19Stella
20Duke
21Willow
22Bear
23Coco
24Molly
25Archie
26Lily
27Murphy
28Sadie
29Tucker
30Lucy
31Toby
32Zoe
33Zeus
34Poppy
35Finn
36Nala
37Oscar
38Roxy
39Scout
40Maggie
41Bentley
42Penny
43Thor
44Chloe
45Bruno
46Piper
47Louie
48Millie
49Simba
50Sophie
51Shadow
52Ginger
53Moose
54Abby
55Jasper
56Belle
57Diesel
58Lady
59Jackson
60Ellie
61Beau
62Nova
63Bandit
64Riley
65Blue
66Marley
67Henry
68Gracie
69Layla
70Baxter
71Rusty
72Remi
73Gus
74Winnie
75Apollo
76Harley
77Oakley
78Honey
79Rex
80Olive
81Jax
82Phoebe
83Axel
84Pepper
85Ollie
86Hazel
87Ozzy
88Lulu
89Koda
90Minnie
91Benji
92Bonnie
93Hank
94Kona
95Chase
96Lexi
97Sam
98Tilly
99Bruce
100Callie

Top 20 Boy Dog Names

When welcoming a male dog into your home, choosing a name that reflects his personality and strength is a good idea. Many popular boy dog names have a classic or rugged feel, while others are simply beloved for their friendly sound. 

Boy Dog Names
Source: Pinterest (@ReignFTY)

Here are the top 20 most popular boy dog names:

  • Charlie
  • Cooper
  • Max
  • Milo
  • Oliver
  • Buddy
  • Rocky
  • Teddy
  • Duke
  • Leo
  • Winston
  • Bear
  • Tucker
  • Finn
  • Archie
  • Jack
  • Murphy
  • Zeus
  • Oscar
  • Bruno

Top 20 Girl Dog Names

For female dogs, popular names often lean towards the sweet, elegant, or playful. These names can highlight a dog’s gentle nature or their energetic spirit. 

Here are the top 20 most popular girl dog names:

  • Luna
  • Bella
  • Bailey
  • Daisy
  • Lola
  • Stella
  • Ruby
  • Willow
  • Molly
  • Sadie
  • Lucy
  • Lily
  • Zoe
  • Poppy
  • Nala
  • Roxy
  • Maggie
  • Penny
  • Chloe
  • Millie

Top 10 Most Popular Dog Names In US

American pet parents have their own unique naming preferences, often influenced by pop culture and classic favorites.

  1. Luna – This celestial name has captured American hearts, particularly following its prominence in pop culture and its short, easy-to-call nature.
  2. Max – A timeless classic that Americans love for its simplicity and the strong, loyal character it conveys.
  3. Bella – Remains wildly popular in the US since the Twilight series, with its beautiful meaning resonating with many pet parents.
  4. Cooper – Has risen steadily in American popularity, perhaps due to its friendly sound and associations with craftsmanship.
  5. Charlie – This friendly, approachable name crosses gender lines in the US, making it versatile for any dog.
  6. Milo – Has seen a remarkable surge in the US, possibly due to its vintage charm and appearances in popular media.
  7. Bailey – Americans love this name for its friendly sound and gender-neutral appeal.
  8. Daisy – This flower-inspired name has never gone out of style in America, symbolizing freshness and cheerfulness.
  9. Oliver – Has climbed American charts steadily, appealing to pet parents looking for something classic yet distinctive.
  10. Lucy – A perennial American favorite with its bright, spunky sound and literary connections.

Factors to Consider When Naming Your Dog

Choosing the right name for your dog involves more than just picking one you like. Several factors can influence your decision and help you select a name that is both fitting for your dog and practical for everyday use. Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Personality: Does your dog have a playful, energetic, calm, or quirky personality? Consider names that reflect these traits. For example, a very active dog might suit a name like “Zoom” or “Dash,” while a more laid-back dog could be named “Chill” or “Sleepy.”
  • Appearance: Your dog’s breed, size, and coloring can also inspire name ideas. A small, white dog might be named “Snowy” or “Cotton,” while a large, brown dog could be “Bear” or “Mocha.”
  • Uniqueness: While popular names are well-loved, you might prefer a more unique name that helps your dog stand out. Consider names that are less common or have a special meaning to you.
  • Sound and Tone: Choose a name that is easy for you to say and for your dog to hear and recognize. Shorter names with clear consonants often work well. Avoid names that sound too similar to common commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “no.”
  • Longevity: Remember that you will be calling your dog’s name for many years. Choose a name that you will still like even as your dog grows older.
  • Avoid Negative Connotations: Steer clear of names that have negative meanings or associations. You want your dog’s name to be positive and welcoming.
  • Say it Out Loud: Practice saying the name out loud in different tones and situations. Does it feel natural and comfortable?
  • Consider Nicknames: Think about potential nicknames that might naturally arise from the chosen name. Are you happy with these possibilities?

By considering these factors, you can narrow down your options and find a name that perfectly suits your canine companion.

Conclusion: Luna Is The Most Popular Dog Name

Luna is the top choice for many dog owners due to its simplicity, elegance, and universal appeal. It has warmth and affection, making it a timeless selection that fits different personalities and breeds. 

Whether you like a classic name or prefer something modern, Luna stands out as a beloved name that has won hearts across the globe. 

While popularity shouldn’t be the only factor in choosing your dog’s name, understanding current trends can be a helpful inspiration. Remember that the perfect name ultimately is the one that reflects the unique bond between you and your pet.

Related Reads:

FAQs

What is the #1 dog name?

Luna currently holds the top spot as the most popular dog name, appealing to pet parents for its celestial meaning, easy pronunciation, and suitability for dogs of various personalities and appearances.

What is a unique name for a dog?

Unique dog names include Sage, Atlas, Echo, Phoenix, or Ziggy. Nature-inspired names like Aspen or Indigo and mythology-based names like Odin or Persephone also offer distinctive options with personal meaning.

What is the coolest pet name?

Cool pet names often combine personality with originality. Names like Maverick, Nova, Onyx, Cleo, and Ziggy stand out while remaining easy to pronounce and memorable at the dog park.

What names do dogs hear best?

Dogs respond best to names with strong consonants and distinctive vowel sounds. Two-syllable names like Buddy, Riley, or Luna are ideal because they’re clear and distinctive in various environments.

What is the most overused dog name?

Max has consistently been among the most overused dog names for decades, particularly for male dogs. Its brevity and strong sound make it popular but extremely common at dog parks.

What are rich dogs name?

Names like Winston, Bentley, Duke, Duchess, and Sapphire project luxury and elegance. These sophisticated names often work well for breeds with aristocratic histories like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels or Standard Poodles.

What is the most adorable dog name?

Adorable dog names that consistently charm include Mochi, Biscuit, Peanut, Teddy, and Pip. These sweet, endearing names are perfect for dogs with cuddly personalities or smaller breeds with cute appearances.

This post contains affiliate links, we'll earn compensation if you make a purchase using them at no additional cost to you  ðŸ˜Š

Apurva Pawar

I'm Apurva Pawar, a dog parent to a 10-year-old Furbaby who I have trained personally. I have always had a close bond with the dogs around me as I used to volunteer in a rescue shelter. I have raised pups of multiple breeds and sizes that were rescued by the shelter and have trained some of those adorable companions. Hence, out of my love and experience about dogs I share whatever information I possess by doing research and surveys.