The Most Popular Dog Names 2023

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It's time to welcome your new four-legged companion to the family! You have prepared by purchasing dog food and delicious treats, selecting suitable skin and coat care products, and picking the right grooming tools. All that's left is to decide on a perfect name.

 

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you search for the name for your new puppy:

 

  1. Keep it short: dogs respond best to short, one- or two-syllable names, so consider choosing a name that's easy for your pup to understand and remember.
  2. Choose a name that's easy to say: avoid names that are difficult to pronounce, as this can make it harder for your dog to respond to their name when called.
  3. Consider your dog's breed: some breeds have distinct characteristics that lend themselves well to certain names. For example, if you have a small, dainty pup, a delicate name might be a good fit.
  4. Look at the trend: see what is the most popular names in recent years. If you have a female dog, you can simply enter ‘2023 dog names girl’ or ‘dog names 2023 female’ on the search to check the suggestions.
  5. Reflect on your own experience: don't be afraid to think outside the box and choose a name that has special meaning to you and your family.

 

Choosing a pet name can be challenging, with countless options to consider. A Top 10 dog names 2023 can be not enough, so I've got you covered with a helpful list of 400 ideas of top dog names 2023. So, sit back, relax and browse through the list of great dog names 2023 while cuddling with your new furry friend.

 

The top 400 dog & puppy names 2023

 

A

Abby. This name means "joy of the father" – so if you're a proud dog parent, Abby might just be the name for your pride and joy.

Ace. Ace is often a moniker for someone who's an expert at what they do. If your pup is a pro at something–like catching a Frisbee–give them this cute dog name!

Adalee. This is a unique dog name that comes from Hebrew, meaning "God is my refuge."

Adele. Thanks to the British singer, this name is more popular now, but its origins come from Germany and it means “noble.”

Ajax. A Greek hero in Homer’s “The Iliad,” you could shorten this to Jax.

Alamo. No, it’s not just the name of the battle in Texas, but also the Spanish word for “poplar tree.”

Alani. This Hawaiian dog name works for both boys and girls, and has its origins in the Hawaiian word for “orange tree.”

Alba. If you ever studied Latin, you’ll know that this word means “white,” as well as being actress Jessica Alba’s surname.

Albus. Meaning "white," it’s perfect for a white dog, big or small.

Alexa. The female version of Alexander.

Alika. This lovely name means “truthful” and “most beautiful,” two values your new dog already has.

Allegra. This gorgeous name derives from the musical term “allegro,” meaning upbeat, so it may be a good pick if you’ve got a happy-go-lucky dog.

Alonzo. The name has its origins in Spain where it means “noble.”

Amelia. Got a dog who’s adventurous? Name her after Amelia Earhart, a famous aviator of the 1930s.

Angel. A name reserved for only the sweetest, most well-behaved pups.

Annie. For a dog who inspires optimism, just like the musical character who sang “the sun’ll come out tomorrow.”

Apollo. This is a fun dog name for lovers of Greek history as well as NASA junkies

Arcadia. The Greek name means unspoiled paradise.

Archibald MacLeash. If the love you feel for your dog is epic, try this name that honors (in a funny way) poet Archibald MacLeish.

Archie. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were on to something when they picked this name for their son.

Argus. The name means “watchful traveler,” which might suit a guard dog.

Ariel. The main character in “The Little Mermaid.” This Disney dog name is perfect for a dog who’s equally happy on land and in water.

Arizona. Did you know the name means “little spring”? Well, now you do!

Arlo. The name of a popular home security system and the best dog name for the pup who thinks it's their job to protect your house!

Armani. Got a stylish pup? Give them an Italian dog name honoring the country’s famous designer.

Arno. Yes, it’s a river (in Italy), but this name comes from Germany, where it means “eagle.”

Artemis. The Greek goddess of the hunt.

Asher. This Hebrew name means “fortunate one,” which describes you, now that you’ve got a dog in your life. You can also call your pup Ash for short.

Asta. In the 1930s, this Wire Fox Terrier was the sidekick to the married couple turned detectives in the “Thin Man” movies.

Athena. In the book the "Odyssey," Homer describes Athena as having sparkling eyes, making Athena a cute dog name for your twinkly-eyed pup.

Atlas. The titan who holds up the world in Greek mythology would make a perfect big dog name.

Atticus. The hero of “To Kill a Mockingbird” stood up for what was right even when it wasn’t popular.

Ava. One of the Social Security Administration's top 10 baby names of 2020 and a unique dog name.

Axel. This name sounds familiar because of Axl Rose, but originally it came from Germany, where it meant “father of peace.”

Azalea. An exotic flowering shrub, usually with pink blooms.

 

B

Baer. There are lots of dogs named Bear, but you might want to give yours the German spelling.

Baby. Because your dog is your baby, obviously!

Baguette. The French love their bread, and this quintessentially French loaf is a good name for any dog.

Bailey. Names that end in “y” sound friendly, which is how you feel toward your new pet.

Baize. Originally a girl’s name of French origin that means “dark brown,” but it could be a boy dog’s name, too.

Baloo. The big friendly bear from Disney's "The Jungle Book," and a loyal friend to the boy Mowgli.

Balto. Based on a true story about a heroic Siberian Husky, “Balto” tells the story of a dog who went on to lead the sled that brought the diphtheria vaccine to Nome, Alaska.

Bambalina. An Italian name that means “little girl,” and you can shorten it to Bamba or Lina.

Bandit. A great name for a dog who loves to steal things!

Banjo. A two-syllable name that has a musical ring to it.

Bard. An Irish name meaning “poet” or “minstrel.”

Bardot. The last name of the famous French actress from the 1960s, Brigitte Bardot.

Barney. This was President George W. Bush’s Scottish Terrier.

Baxter. This name originally meant "baker," so if you have a dog that loves sweet treats, go with this cute dog name!

Baya. The Spanish word for “berry.”

Bean. After the coffee bean, naturally.

Bear. A cute dog name for any pup that resembles a snuggly teddy bear.

Beast. This could be a funny dog name for a small pup who’s perfectly sweet and cuddly.

Beau. This name literally means “handsome” in French (and is a popular name here in the States, too).

Beethoven. The name of the big, loveable, and mischievous St. Bernard in the 1992 movie of the same name. And, of course, the famous German composer.

Bella. The name means “beautiful” in Italian

Belle. Belle means "beauty" in French.

Benji. The adorable mutt named Benji made his movie debut in 1974, the first of several films in the “Benji” series.

Benny. Short for Benjamin, one of the Social Security Administration's top male names for 2020.

Bentley. The name of a luxury English automobile, Bentley is a unique dog name reserved for the poshest of pups.

Bianca. The Italian word for “white.”

Biggs. This could be a cute dog name that's short for the more formal "Bigsby," or maybe you're just a fan of the actor Jason Biggs.

Blake. Honor country music by naming your dog after country singer Blake Shelton.

Blanca. This is the Spanish word for “white.”

Blazer. Sure, a "blazer" is a jacket, but it's also a unique dog name.

Blue. The name of Beyonce and Jay-Z's daughter.

Bo. Bo is a boy's name of Norse origin meaning "to live." So if you're looking for a dog name inspired by your pup's personality to live life to the fullest, this is it!

Bocce. A game that dates back to Roman times, played with a ball in a court of dirt.

Bolt. A white-haired German Shepherd from the Disney movie "Bolt" who thinks his superpowers are real. This is the best dog name for any dog that thinks they’re a superhero IRL!

Bones. Basic? Maybe. But it's still perfect for any dog who loves bones.

Booker. A good name for a smart, attentive puppy.

Boomer. If your dog has a booming big-boy bark, this might just be the name for him!

Brad Pittbull. You’ll get a chuckle from the vet with this funny dog name, a play on movie star Pitt.

Brian. Brian Griffin is the Labrador from "Family Guy" who always seems to be the smartest "person" in the room.

Briscoe. There are several U.S. towns named Briscoe, and this name can also honor Lennie Briscoe, the iconic police detective played by Jerry Orbach on “Law & Order.”

Brody. A name of Scottish origins, it means “broad eye,” but we like it because it’s stylish and friendly at the same time.

Bruno. This is a German name, and originally meant “brown.”

Buck. The star dog from "Call of the Wild."

Buddy. The name of the first dog who was trained to be a Seeing Eye dog for the blind in the United States.

Buffy. In honor of the cult TV hit “Buffy the Vampire Slayer.”

Bunco. This game is played with three black-and-white dice.

Buster. Got a tough guy on your hands? Buster might be the best dog name for him!

Button. Is your furball cute as a button? Of course, they are!

Buzz. One of the main playthings in “Toy Story.”

 

C

Cannoli. Cannolis might be hard on the outside, but they're soft and sweet on the inside. This could be a creative dog name for a rough-looking pup who’s actually a softy.

Cappuccino. Name your favorite brown dog after your favorite hot brew.

Capri. The beautiful island in Italy’s Bay of Naples.

Carey. From Irish origins, meaning “dark, black.”

Carolina. A country dog name that’s shared with two Southern states.

Carrie. Nothing says country like a song by Carrie Underwood.

Carter. A great dog name that can be for a boy or a girl.

Cash. Dollars, money, moolah—a great name for a pup who loves the finer things in life.

Casper. Is your dog as white as a ghost, and friendly, too?

Cassia. This is the feminine form of Cassius, meaning “cinnamon,” so it might be a good name for dogs with brown fur or a spicy-yet-sweet personality.

Chardonnay. This popular white wine might be a suitable white dog name for a swanky dog like a Miniature Poodle or Maltese.

Charlie. A great dog name that can be for a boy or a girl.

Chaser. The world’s smartest dog, a Border Collie, had a vocabulary of thousands of words.

Checkers. The classic white-and-black board game.

Chewy. A fitting name for dogs who love to gnaw on toys.

Chico. The Spanish word for “little” is an obvious choice for a small dog name.

Chief. Is your dog the real leader of your house? Then pick this dog name inspired by his personality.

Chip. A nickname for the more formal "Charles."

Chips. This brave dog took part in World War II and earned many medals for his daring deeds.

Chloe. A super cute dog name that you can shorten to "Chlo."

Cinnamon. For the dog who’s a warm, medium shade of brown. Or maybe you just love cinnamon!

Clifford. This is a perfect name for a big red pup with an even bigger heart.

Clint. As in actor and director Clint Eastwood and country musician Clint Black.

Clover. Plant-based monikers like Daisy and Rose are popular, but here's a more unique dog name!

Coco. This can be the perfect puppy name for your chocolate-colored dog–or if you're a big fan of Coco Chanel.

Cocoa. Another word for “chocolate” and a yummy drink in winter.

Cody. Buffalo Bill Cody was an American soldier and hunter (of buffalo, where he got his name).

Cole. An English black dog name that takes its cue from the word “coal.”

Como. Lake Como is in the northern part of Italy, in Lombardy, and a place that George Clooney calls home.

Cookie. Is your dog oh-so-sweet, like a cookie? Pick this fun dog name!

Coop. Short for "Cooper," a cool dog name that can be a nod to singer Alice Cooper or even journalist Anderson Cooper.

Cooper. Gary Cooper played the all-American, strong, silent type in his movies.

Copper. A fitting dog name for a pup whose fur or eyes are the color of a penny.

Cortado. In Spanish-speaking countries, this is what you order when you want a latte-like coffee.

Cosette. French for “little thing.”

Crockett. Davy Crockett was an American hero and pioneer, the “King of the Wild Frontier,” which in the early 19th century included the state where he was born, Tennessee.

Cujo. Cujo was the name of the star dog from the horror film "Cujo,” but your sweet pup doesn't need to know that.

Cullen. The last name of Edward Cullen, the vampire who loves Bella Swan in the “Twilight” series.

 

D

Daisy. Daisy Duke was a character in TV’s “The Dukes of Hazzard,” a TV show set in rural Georgia.

Dakota. Another pair of states known for their wide-open spaces.

Dali. The name of Hugh Jackman’s French Bulldog.

Darcy. This name originated from France (it meant d’Arcy, or from Arcy) and it later became a popular name for boys (maybe thanks to the fictional Mr. Darcy from “Pride and Prejudice”).

Demi. It means “half,” but is the diminutive of Demetria.

Denali. This Alaskan mountain is the tallest one in the U.S.

Devlin. You don’t have to divulge what this badass dog name originally meant because it doesn’t pertain to either you or your pup! (It meant “unlucky.”)

Dexter. Sure, Dexter was a serial killer on that TV show, but this could be a creative dog name if your dog likes to "kill" their toys!

Diana. The Roman goddess of the hunt as well as wild animals and the forest.

Diego. The Spanish equivalent of James is a common human name, making it an appealing Spanish dog name, too.

Diesel. If your dog is both "Fast & Furious," pick this name that's a nod to Vin Diesel.

Diva. For the dog who knows exactly what she wants, and isn’t shy about asking for it.

Dixie. Are you or your dog from the South? Dixie could be a fun dog name!

Dobby. The loyal house-elf who’ll do anything for Harry Potter.

Domino. Another classic game, this one played with tiles, doubles as a great black-and-white dog name.

Dot or Dottie. This might be suitable if your dog has spots, too.

Doug. A super cute dog name for a pug. (Get it? Doug the Pug!)

Dozer. Does your dog love to nap? "Dozer" could be a creative dog name!

Draco. As in Draco Malfoy, a sometimes-villainous classmate in the “Harry Potter” series.

Draper. The last name of Don Draper, who personified chutzpah in the TV series “Mad Men.”

Dublin. The capital city of Ireland.

Duke. Just one of the many dog name ideas that we can steal from the characters on "Bridgerton."

 

E

Earl. Give your dog a name that's worthy of a British title! Earl means "nobleman."

Echo. The fifth letter in the military alphabet and a pretty cool dog name.

Ellie. Means "bright shining one," perfect for the dog that just lights up your day.

Ember. A fire is a cozy thing to have around during the holidays, and your dog will give you as much of a warm feeling as the glowing bits of wood at the bottom of the fireplace.

Emma. This might be a nod to your favorite celeb, like Emma Watson, Emma Roberts, or Emma Stone.

Espresso. If your pup got a high-spirited personality, then this caffeinated drink name might be a match.

 

F

Fala. President Franklin D. Roosevelt had many dogs, but Fala, a Scottish Terrier, was the most famous.

Fawkes. This smart phoenix is Albus Dumbledore’s companion and saves Harry Potter’s life after Harry was poisoned by a basilisk.

Finn. All dogs are heroic (even if they only chase balls), so name yours after Finn MacCool—now that’s a name! —a hero in Irish mythology.

Fitz. Usually a nickname for someone named Fitzgerald or Fitzpatrick, this can double as an Irish dog name.

Fleur. In the “Harry Potter” series, Feisty Fleur Delacour takes part in the Triwizard Tournament with Harry and Cedric Diggory. It may just be the fanciest-sounding name in the series.

Flynn. Though Flynn is a boy’s name in Ireland (it means “son of the red-haired one”), it’s one of those unisex names that also fits a female pet, too.

Francis. A name taken from St. Francis de Assisi, the patron saint of animals, would be a very fitting boy dog name for any pup, especially yours!

Frankie. A cute dog name that can be for a boy or a girl.

Fraser. People often choose a Fraser fir to be their Christmas tree, so this might be a good Christmas dog name for your pup.

Fudge. A sweet name for a brown dog, perhaps, and the last name of Cornelius, the Minister for Magic from the "Harry Potter" series.

Fuji. Japan’s famous mountain.

 

G

Gale. As in gale-force winds, which start in winter.

Gaspar. One of the three wise men.

Ginger. Maybe your dog is a reddish-orange color – or is a little spicy!

Gizmo. A gizmo is a device that gets any job done. So, if your pup is a doer, pick this creative dog name!

Goliath. This giant was defeated by David in the Bible, but your pooch doesn’t have to know that.

Goofy. Mickey Mouse’s pal and a truly classic Disney character.

Gracie. A name of English origin that means "Grace of God.

Gunner. A name that means “bold warrior,” which is what you want your country dog to be.

Gus. There's no greater dog name than the dog name that simply means "great!"

 

H

Hagrid. The half-man, half-giant who befriends Harry, Ron, and Hermione and is the gamekeeper at Hogwarts in the "Harry Potter" series.

Hank. This name means "ruler of the home," which can really be a suitable name for any pet!

Hark. It’s what the herald angels sang, after all.

Harley. Are you a fan of motorcycles? Why not pick this creative dog name that's a nod to the famous Harley Davidson?

Harper. For the literary types, name your dog after Harper Lee, author of "To Kill a Mockingbird."

Harry. This name dates back centuries and was short for Henry (another great dog name), but it’s been made cooler by Prince Harry (and Harry Potter, of course).

Hazel. Hazel is thought to come from the Old English word hæsel, meaning the light brown color.

Henry. A classic name fit for a king!

Hershey. Also known as Chocolatetown, USA, and "The Sweetest Place on Earth," making it a perfect name for your sweet brown fur baby.

Hilo. One of the towns on the island of Hawaii, known for its breathtaking landscape of waterfalls and big mountains.

Hiroko. A Japanese girl’s name meaning “generous” and “fair.”

Hobbes. The name means “bright fame,” but most people know it from the comic “Calvin and Hobbes.”

Homer. People will think of “The Simpsons,” but this is another Greek name that honors the great poet and author of “The Odyssey” and “The Illiad.”

Honey. Is your dog sweet like honey? Pick this cute dog's name!

Hooch. French Mastiffs don’t normally get starring roles, but this dog stole Tom Hanks’ heart in the dog-and-detective buddy movie, “Turner and Hooch.”

Huck. Short for Huckleberry Hound, the cartoon dog.

Hudson. Name your dog after the mighty river in New York State with this name that literally means “son of Hud” (another name for Hugh in medieval England).

Hunter. It literally means one who hunts—what could be a better hunting dog name than that?

 

I

Ilise. The German variation of Elise, means “pledged to God.”

Indo. This is the name of one of Will Smith’s Rottweilers (he has a pack).

Indy. If your dog is fast like a racecar in the Indy 500, this would be a creative dog name!

Inu. This literally means "dog" in Japanese, but it's a cute dog name!

Isola. For a self-sufficient dog, this Italian word meaning “island” might be the perfect name.

Izzy. Izzy can be short for Isabel, Isabella, or Isadora.

 

J

Jabba. Named after Jabba the Hutt from “Star Wars.”

Jack. Jack is a nickname for John and also a popular brand of Tennessee whiskey, Jack Daniels.

Jackson. Jackson literally means "son of Jack," but you could also pick this creative dog name inspired by Jackson Pollock, the abstract painter.

Jake. A nickname for Jacob.

Jasmine. The princess in “Aladdin.”

Jasper. A unique dog name of Persian origin that means "bringer of treasure." So if your pup loves to bring you his most beloved toys, this could be fitting!

Jax. Short for "Jackson" and also a nickname for the most populous city in Florida, Jacksonville.

Jedi. After the Knights of the Jedi Order, aka the heroes in the “Star Wars” series.

Jett. A creative dog name if your pup is jet black.

Jimbo. This is probably the cutest nickname for "James" that we've ever heard.

Jinx. A great name if you’ve got a devil-may-care dog with a lot of charisma.

John McCanine. For the dog with the demeanor of a politician.

Jupiter. This is the largest planet in the solar system.

 

K

Kahana. The name of a bay on the island of Oahu, which is now a national park.

Kahlo. For Frida Kahlo, the famous Mexican artist.

Kai. The word means “sea” in Hawaiian.

Katniss. You can’t go wrong naming your dog after the feisty heroine in “The Hunger Games” series.

Keanu. A name meaning “cool breeze over the mountains,” which perfectly describes Keanu Reeves and perhaps your laid-back pooch.

Kenyon. An English name that means “white-haired,” so pretty perfect for your white pooch.

Kenzo. A boy’s name in Japan, originally meant “wise” and “strong.”

Koda. Koda is the name of a cute and cuddly bear from Disney's "Brother Bear," which could make a perfect puppy name!

Kona. Are you a fan of coffee or tea? Consider naming your dog after this popular Hawaiian coffee and tea company.

Krishna. A Sanskrit word that means “black.”

Kuchen. The German word for “cake,” this is a typical German dessert, so it might be a sweet German dog name for your new pet.

Kyoto. One of Japan’s famous cities, known for its Buddhist temples.

 

L

Laban. The Hebrew word for “white,” and one of those unique dog names that you won’t run into very much.

Lady. The Cocker Spaniel from the classic Disney movie "Lady and the Tramp."

Lassie. In classic TV series and films, Lassie always saved the day.

Lavender. The sweet-smelling herb.

Layla. The name Layla is a girl's name of Arabic origin meaning "night," and also a classic Eric Clapton song.

Lennon. Who knew? You’d think this name was just a nod to Beatle John Lennon, but it’s Irish in origin and means “small cloak.”

Leo. You can’t go wrong naming your pup after an animal that symbolizes courage, pride, and strength.

Lestat. The vampire from “The Vampire Chronicles,” famously played by Tom Cruise in the movie “Interview with the Vampire.”

Levi. If you have one of those “shadow” dogs who love to be by your side, this name means “attached” or “joined” in Hebrew (plus, it’s a very cool dog name).

Lexi. A Greek name that is short for Alexander or Alexis, so it can be for either a girl dog or a boy dog.

Liam. This used to be a nickname for William, but actor Liam Neeson and Oasis singer Liam Gallagher helped make it a popular stand-alone choice.

Lila. Comes from the Arabic word for “night,” which is pretty perfect for a female pup whose fur is as black as night.

Lille. Another French city, close to Belgium, and a nice name for a female fur baby.

Lilly or Lily. This name just sounds pretty, like the flower!

Lilo. One of the title characters in “Lilo and Stitch.”

Linus. Yes, it’s the name of a blanket-carrying character from “Peanuts,” but this name dates back to ancient Greek mythology, where Linus was a great musician.

Lobo. Spanish for "wolf."

Loco. Means "crazy" in Spanish—a perfect name for the dog who’s a little, well, loco!

Loki. If you have a dog who is always getting into trouble, name him or her after the god of mischief.

Lola. The name of a song and the nickname of Madonna’s daughter Lourdes.

Louie. This dog's name means "famous warrior," perfect for the pup always ready for a tug-of-war battle!

Lucky. Because you're lucky to have your pup, and your pup is lucky to have you!

Lucy. This name means "light," but is also the name of the hilariously entertaining main character in "I Love Lucy."

Lulu. This name means "famous warrior," but is also an Arabic name meaning "pearl."

Luna. Spanish for "moon," which is a cute dog name because you certainly love your pup to the moon and back!

Lupin. Remus Lupin is a popular teacher at Hogwarts, was a friend to Harry Potter’s dad, and, oh yeah, also a werewolf.

Lupo. A royal name of sorts since it belongs to Prince William and Kate Middleton’s Cocker Spaniel.

 

M

Maddie. Short for Madeline or Madison.

Maggie. This name got more popular after Rod Stewart's 1971 song "Maggie May." It's short names for like Magdalena, Magnolia, and Margaret.

Magnus. A Latin name meaning “the greatest.”

Malia. This is the Hawaiian version of Mary, and a name made famous by President Obama’s eldest daughter.

Marco. A name meaning “warlike,” it was made famous by the 13th-century Italian merchant and traveler Marco Polo.

Marley. Labs were already popular pets before “Marley and Me,” but trouble-making Marley made families realize how wonderful they really are.

Maru. A super cute Japanese puppy name!

Matisse. Named after Henri Matisse, the famous French artist.

Maverick. Maybe you're a fan of Tom Cruise's character in "Top Gun" or maybe you're just looking for a cool dog name.

Max. One of the most popular names for dogs.

Maya. In Sanskrit, Maya means "illusion."

Mia. This name is short and sweet and always fitting, whether your dog is a shepherd or a Shih Tzu.

Millie. This English Springer Spaniel belonged to First Lady Barbara Bush, and became the subject of a children’s book.

Milo. Milo may have been the cat in "The Adventures of Milo and Otis," but this would make a cute dog name, too!

Mishka. This means "little bear" or “bear cub” in Russian.

Missy. This shortened version of Melissa is super cute!

Mitsuko. Meaning “light” and “child,” this is usually a girl’s name in Japan. Why not make it a Japanese dog name, too?

Mochi. Take your dog naming to the next level by naming your pup after this Japanese rice cake.

Molly. One meaning of this name is "star of the sea," so if your dog is a big fan of the ocean, this could be a creative dog name.

Monet. This Impressionist is considered one of the landmark French artists.

Montana. As in Big Sky Country.

Moose. What could possibly be a cutter puppy name than Moose?

Murphy. If your dog is always making you laugh, consider naming him or her "Murphy," after comedian Eddie Murphy.

Mushu. Mushu is the teeny tiny dragon from the animated Disney movie "Mulan.”

 

N

Nacho. Everyone’s favorite snack.

Nala. Nala is an African name that means "successful."

Nemo. The title character in “Finding Nemo.”

Nero. It means “black” in Italian.

Nisha. Another female name that means “night,” this time from Sanskrit.

Nova. Nova is Latin for "new," which would be a fitting name for your new fur baby!

 

O

Oakley. Like Annie Oakley, the American sharpshooter.

Obi. A nod to Obi-Wan Kenobi, a legendary Jedi from the Star Wars films.

Odie. The cutie patootie dog from the comic strip "Garfield."

Odin. In Norse mythology, Odin was the highest of all Norse gods and was associated with art, war, wisdom, and health.

Oliver. Oliver ranked #3 on the Social Security Administration's top baby names of 2020.

Olivia. The #1 female name on the Social Security Administration's top 10 baby names of 2020.

Ollie. A cute dog name that's short for Oliver.

Orca. These killer whales are black and white, just like your pup.

Oreo. What’s cuter than naming your dog after a black-and-white cookie?

Orion. This Greek giant ended up as a constellation, where he’s known as the hunter.

Oscar. This reference to Oscar the Grouch is perfect for pups who get a little grumpy sometimes.

Otis. Yes, cats and dogs can team up, get into mischief and become BFFs—just look at Milo, the orange tabby cat, and Otis, the Pug, in “The Adventures of Milo and Otis.”

Otto. The name means "wealth." So if you plan to spoil your pup with lots of toys and treats, Otto might be a great dog name!

 

P

Pablo. The Spanish equivalent of Paul.

Paco. One of the nicknames for Francisco.

Pancho. Another nickname for Francisco, this was also the name of Pancho Villa, a general in the Mexican revolution.

Pandora. In Greek myth, this is the woman who let troubles into the world—which might be a good pick for a puppy who’s constantly getting into mischief.

Paris. You can’t have France without its capital, which is an iconic city and a suitable French dog name for your iconic pup.

Parker. Originally this meant “park keeper,” and you can’t have a dog without visiting a park or two.

Peanut. Could there be a more endearing puppy name?

Penny. A shortened version of Penelope, which could also be a great dog name.

Pepper. If you want a great dog name inspired by his or her spicy personality, this is the one!

Percy. The spoiled Pug in Disney’s “Pocahontas.”

Perdita. The mother of the brood of Dalmatians in “101 Dalmatians.”

Petey. A cute nickname for Peter, but it also means "rock."

Picasso. If your pup marches to the beat of his own drum, you might want to name him after Pablo Picasso, who invented a new style of painting called Cubism.

Pickles. The real thing may be sour, but this name will make you smile (and so will your dog).

Piper. Referring to a flute player, this name belongs to actress Piper Perabo.

Pippin. According to the dictionary, a "pippin" is a highly admired or admirable person or thing–just like your dog!

Pisco. A type of brandy made from grapes that comes from Chile and Peru.

Pluto. The pet dog in Mickey and Minnie’s crew.

Polenta. An Italian dish made with cornmeal.

Pongo. The father of the brood of Dalmatian pups in Disney’s “101 Dalmatians.”

Posie/Posy/Posey. One of the old-fashioned flower names that are so hot today.

Princess. Now here's a dog name inspired by a personality!

Pugs Punny. Got a Pug who needs a funny name? This one might do.

 

Q

Quince. A fruit that’s like an apple.

Quinn. This was originally an Irish surname, and it meant “chief leader.” If your dog wants to be the boss (not that you’ll let them), give them this moniker.

 

R

Rambo. If your dog lives in his very own action movie, Rambo might be the perfect dog name.

Ranger. Another outdoor profession that fits hunting dogs.

Rapunzel. For the yellow, long-haired dog in your life.

Rascal. Is your pup a bit mischievous? Consider naming them Rascal.

Raven. This awesome name for a strong-willed dog comes from Raven, a superhero from “Teen Titans.”

Reagan. Another Irish name meaning “little king,” which pretty much describes any tiny male dog.

Reese. Your four-legged family member deserves a sweet name, and this one is the same as the inventor of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, H.B. Reese.

Remy. Does your dog love food? Consider naming him or her after the aspiring chef in the Disney movie "Ratatouille."

Reno. A cool dog name inspired by the city in Nevada.

Rex. This means "king," which could be a funny dog name for a little pup with a royal attitude.

Rhett. The coolest character in “Gone with the Wind,” and a cool dog name for your pup.

Riley. A name of Irish origin meaning "courageous" and a great dog name for a boy dog or a girl dog.

Rin Tin Tin. A famous dog name popularized by an international dog movie star.

Rizzo. One of the main characters in the movie "Grease" and the leader of the Pink Ladies.

Rocco. The name Rocco means "rest," so if your dog loves lounging around, consider this a great dog name!

Rogue. Meaning a person who doesn’t behave in the usual or acceptable way, this is perfect for a dog who’s always “going rogue.”

Romeo. Is your dog the most handsome around? Name him after the tragic Shakespearian lover Romeo!

Roo. You can’t go wrong with names from “Winnie-the-Pooh,” especially this one that belonged to the young kangaroo.

Rosalita. After the song “Rosalita” by Bruce Springsteen, this is a fun and unique dog name–and you can call her "Rosie" for short!

Rosie. Is your dog beautiful like a rose? Name her Rosie!

Rover Cleveland. The 22nd and 24th president’s names do lend themselves to this dog pun.

Ruby. A ruby is a coveted stone often associated with power and wealth. It's a great dog name for the pup who is the king of your castle.

 

S

Sadie. Sadie means "princess." It's a great girl dog name inspired by her personality!

Sake. The traditional liquor of Japan.

Sarge. Short for "sergeant," and a great dog name for the pup who keeps everyone in line.

Savannah. A city in Georgia, the name has a cool, laid-back vibe.

Sawyer. Tom Sawyer, Mark Twain’s fictional character, was a mischief maker, which may apply to your new puppy, too.

Scarlett. Pay homage to the strong, smart women (IRL and in fiction) who’ve had this name, like Scarlett O’Hara (“Gone with the Wind”) and actress Scarlett Johansson.

Scooby. Named after the famous mystery-solving cartoon dog, Scooby-Doo.

Scooter. A good name for a speedy dog who likes to jog or walk briskly.

Scout. You want a dog who’s as resourceful as a Boy or Girl Scout.

Sequoia. If you are an avid hiker, you might want to name your new pet after these large trees.

Shadow. If your dog likes to follow you around a lot, this could be a creative dog name!

Shannon. A town in western Ireland, and the home of the third busiest airport in Ireland.

Shanti. The word means “peace” in Sanskrit.

Sherlock. Does your dog like to sniff out mysteries? Consider naming him Sherlock!

Shiloh. The adorable Beagle who took center stage in the “Shiloh” series of family movies.

Sienna. A color that’s earthy, reddish brown. If that fits your dog’s fur, you’ve found your brown dog name!

Simba. The main character from “The Lion King.”

Sirius. Is your dog black? Sirius Black is Harry Potter’s godfather who turned into a black dog to escape the prison of Azkaban.

Skip. The name of the Jack Russell Terrier who accompanies his pal Willie everywhere in “My Dog Skip.”

Sky. You’ll see plenty of skies when you head outdoors with your dog.

Slinky. The toy Dachshund from the movie "Toy Story."

Snickers. Who doesn’t like to give or receive these sweet treats when trick-or-treating?

Snoopy. The famous Beagle from "Peanuts" who has an unbeatable imagination.

Socks. Sure, it’s not the most original name ever, but it’s adorable when dogs have little contrasting-colored paws.

Sparky. Does your dog spark joy? Consider this creative dog name!

Spike. Any 90s kid will remember Spike as the family dog from the "Rugrats" cartoon.

Stella. Stella means "Star" and it's also the name of Paul McCartney's daughter.

Sundae. A sweet treat of a name for a super-sweet dog.

Sunny. The name of one of the Portuguese Water Dogs who lived in the White House with Barack Obama during his presidency.

Sushi. A cute and trendy food-inspired dog name.

 

T

Tahoe. Derived from a Washo word that means “edge of the lake,” Lake Tahoe is, at 191 square miles, one of the larger lakes in the United States.

Tank. This could be a funny dog name for a teacup pup!

Tate. Got a happy dog? Name him after this Norse word for “cheerful.”

Taylor. Yes, it’s the best dog name for Taylor Swift stans, but if you have a blue-eyed dog, name her after Elizabeth Taylor, the legendary actress whose eyes were almost violet.

Tex. Tex means "from Texas." So, if your dog hails from Texas, give him this name.

Thalia. Thalia means "to blossom" or "to flourish."

Thor. Naming your dog after the Norse god of thunder may mean he won’t get scared when he hears it.

Tippi. As in Tippi Hedren, star of Hitchcock’s “The Birds.” An old-school printing press term that was used as a placeholder (“to come”). It’s a unique dog name that might be useful if you can’t find a name you love!

Toby. This name is short and memorable and ends in the friendly double “y” sound.

Tory. This name of an island also means “outlaw” in Gaelic.

Toto. Dorothy’s scrappy little Cairn Terrier in the classic “The Wizard of Oz.”

Trapper. Another appropriate name for a hunting dog.

Trixie. A good name if you have a little trickster on your hands.

Tubbs. The perfect puppy name for a chubby little doggo.

Tucker. “Christmas With Tucker” was a Hallmark movie hit, and this name has a noble ring to it.

Tupelo. The birthplace of Elvis Presley and the name of a certain kind of honey.

 

W

Weasley. The Weasley clan takes Harry Potter into their family, and Ron is one of Harry’s best and most loyal friends.

Whiskey. You might think the Scots invented this alcoholic beverage, but the Irish take credit, too.

Whitney. This was originally a last name in England, which meant “white island.”

Wiggum. A cute dog name based on the silly "The Simpsons" characters, Chief Wiggum and his son, Ralph Wiggum.

Willie. Can’t go wrong naming your dog after country singing icon Willie Nelson.

Winn-Dixie. You might be a little obsessed with the grocery store if you name your doggo Winn-Dixie, but it does have a nice ring to it!

Winnie. Short for Winnie the Pooh, the loveable teddy bear.

Winston. A nod to Sir Winston Churchill, Prime Minister of the U.K. during World War II. Maybe you can get away with calling your pup "Sir" for short!

Wolf. A great dog name if your dog looks like a wolf.

 

X

Xena. Another heroic character, from the TV show “Xena: Warrior Princess.”

 

Y

Yara. Another girl’s name that’s rising in the popularity charts, maybe thanks to the “Game of Thrones” character Yara Greyjoy.

Yoda. The greatest dog name, it is.

 

Z

Zeke. A name with a country vibe.

Zelda. A video game series as well as the wife of Jazz Age writer, F. Scott Fitzgerald.

Zeus. The Greek god of sky and thunder–a creative dog name for the dog that isn't afraid of thunderstorms!

Ziggy. Ziggy means "victorious protector" and is the best dog name for any pup that feels he has to protect your house.

 

It's important to remember that the name you choose will be a big part of your dog's identity and that it's a name you'll be using for many years to come, so take your time and choose a name that you and your new pup will love.

 

Breeding dogs for more than 35 years brought me to my mission – to understand and create the best products for pets. I’m ready to share my long-tested and thoroughly created pet care system with you!
- Janita J. Plunge

FAQ

What are the best dog names 2023?
The best dog names in 2023 can vary depending on personal preferences and trends. Some popular choices for dog names in 2023 included Luna, Max, Bella, Charlie, Daisy, Cooper, and Milo, among others. It's always a good idea to choose a name that resonates with you and reflects your dog's personality.
What are the most popular dog names 2023?
The most popular dog names in 2023 vary by region and culture, but some names consistently ranked high in popularity. Common examples include Bella, Luna, Daisy, Max, Charlie, Lucy, Molly, Cooper, Bailey, and Oliver. These names have remained popular choices for dog owners over the years.
What are the most unique dog names 2023?
Uniqueness in dog names can be subjective, as it depends on individual taste and creativity. However, some unique dog names that gained popularity in 2023 are Maverick, Nova, Zeus, Pixel, Ollie, Willow, Ziggy, Koda, and Nala. These names offer a distinct and memorable flair for your furry friend. Remember, the best unique name is one that resonates with you and your dog's individuality.

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