Labrador Retrievers, aka Labs, are one of the most well-recognized dog breeds globally. Originating in 1800s Newfoundland, Canada. They were imported into the United Kingdom in the 1830s where they were bred with other dog breeds to develop the Labrador Retrievers that are known and loved today. While Labrador Retrievers were originally bred to be great hunting dogs, today most spend their days as companion animals a role well suited for their friendly, intelligent, and people-pleasing natures. These same traits also make them easy to train, so many labs are trained to be great service and therapy dogs.
Please keep in mind that because Labrador Retrievers were originally bred to hunt, these dogs have plenty of energy. If you're looking for a dog that can make a great workout buddy or a new family member who won't have any trouble keeping up with kids, a lab can make a great match.
Once your new Lab is home, priority number one is often choosing their name. Most pet parents want a name that encompasses the look and personality of their new baby. Because this task can often feel overwhelming, we've compiled a list of great names for female and male Labrador Retrievers to help get you started!
Read More: Most Common Names for Dogs
Female Lab Names
Name | Description |
Ruby | Precious like the rock, representing beauty. |
Willow | Like the slender tree, graceful and flexible. |
Lola | A cute, light-hearted name for a sweet dog. |
Luna | Inspired by the moon, symbolizing calmness and beauty. |
Honey | Sweet like their personality, perfect for a warm-hearted dog. |
Ember | For their fiery spirit, a name that captures energy and passion. |
Pipa | A playful name, perfect for an energetic dog. |
Poppy | Like the beautiful flower, vibrant and full of life. |
Maple | Lovely name for their tan fur, a soft and natural feel. |
Brandy | Like the warm drink, ideal for a comforting companion. |
Phoebe | For F.R.I.E.N.D.S fans, a quirky, lovable name. |
Zoe | Meaning life, symbolizing vitality and energy. |
Champagne | For their wonderful fur tone, elegant and sparkling. |
Butterscotch | For the yellow labs, sweet and comforting. |
Pumpkin | For the color, and their cute and endearing nature. |
Black Lab Names
Black Labradors are more common and popular than you think. If you have one, here are a few names for them -
Name | Description |
Onyx | Inspired by the black gemstone, symbolizing strength and mystery. |
Ash | Short, strong name for a black lab, or a nod to a Pokemon fan. |
Sable | A beautiful name to describe the color black, elegant and refined. |
Abbey | Inspired by the black card in magic, a name for a powerful dog. |
Asphalt | A tough, edgy name, like the black liquid used in road construction. |
Midnight | Perfect for a dog with a dark coat, symbolizing the night. |
Slate | A unique name, evoking the cool tones of the slate stone. |
Smoky | For a silver labrador, capturing a misty, smoky vibe. |
Jade | Tough like the stone, yet as precious as a gem. |
Olive | Inspired by black olives, a name that reflects calmness and sophistication. |
Charcoal | Your lab is like charcoal, providing warmth and fuel to your life. |
Eerie | A mysterious name, perfect for a dog that loves the night. |
Chocolate Lab Names
Chocolate-colored labradors often have hazel eyes and brown noses that complement their coats. If your new lab is chocolate brown, here are a few names that might make a great fit:
Name | Description |
Mocha | Like the rich, warm color of coffee, perfect for a brown dog. |
Hazel | A lovely name inspired by the warm, magical color of hazel eyes. |
Sienna | A deep, earthy reddish-brown shade, ideal for a dog with that unique coat. |
Hershey | As sweet as the chocolate, a perfect name for a sweet and cuddly pup. |
Rusty | A playful name for a dog with a reddish-brown coat. |
Snickers | Fun and sweet, just like the candy bar. |
Bear | For a dog that’s big, fluffy, and perfect for cuddles, like a teddy bear. |
Lava | Inspired by the fiery reddish-brown tones of molten lava. |
Ginger | Perfect for a dog with a warm, golden, or reddish-brown coat; or go for 'Gingerbread'. |
Whisky | For a dog with a sophisticated spirit or a warm, amber-colored coat. |
Coffee | A perfect name for a dog that helps you wake up with energy and love, like a good cup of coffee. |
Yellow Lab Names
Yellow labradors are the most common, so often when someone thinks of a Labrador Retriever, a classic golden coat is what comes to mind. If you've brought a yellow lab home, and are struggling to name them, here are a few fun options to get you started:
Name | Description |
Buttercup | Sweet and soft, like the lovely yellow flower, perfect for a gentle pup. |
Lemon Drop | A zesty, cheerful name for a dog that brightens your day like a lemon drop candy. |
Opal | A precious gemstone with shimmering colors, perfect for a unique and bright dog. |
Pearl | A timeless, elegant name for a dog with a soft, smooth personality or coat. |
Ray | Inspired by a beam of sunlight, a perfect name for a dog that lights up your world. |
Sunny | Ideal for a dog that brings warmth and joy, just like the sun. |
Dandelion | A bright, playful name for a dog that’s full of life and whimsy. |
Tawny | A warm, golden-brown color, perfect for a dog with a rich, beautiful coat. |
Sandy | A sweet and beachy name for a light-colored dog or one who loves the outdoors. |
Bee | A cute, buzz-worthy name for a small and energetic dog with a big personality. |
Lemonade | Refreshing and sweet, like the perfect summer drink, great for a cheerful dog. |
If none of these names feel like the right fit for your puppy, here are a few names for male and female labrador puppies, regardless of coat color.
Labrador Puppy Names for Males
If your still haven't found the perfect name for your new male lab, here is a list of some of the best names Spot Peet Insurance has found for male labrador retrievers.
Name | Description |
Oreo | A classic name for a black and white dog, sweet and delicious, just like the cookie. |
Bowie | Inspired by the iconic musician David Bowie, perfect for a unique and eclectic pup. |
Buddy | A friendly and approachable name for a loyal dog, always by your side. |
Chance | For a dog that was a lucky find or has taken a chance on you, full of surprises. |
Jet | Fast and sleek, like a jet plane; great for an energetic and speedy dog. |
Pepper | A zesty, spicy name for a dog with lots of personality and flair. |
Max | A strong, classic name that works for any breed, representing strength and loyalty. |
Jack | A timeless, rugged name that suits a dog with a brave and adventurous spirit. |
Gunner | Perfect for a tough and determined dog, like a strong force in battle. |
Marley | Inspired by the reggae legend, a great name for a laid-back dog with lots of heart. |
Bravo | A name for a dog that always gets applause, full of energy and confidence. |
Labrador Puppy Names for Females
When picking a name for your lab puppy, you should choose one that is short, catchy, and feels right for your fur baby. Don't be afraid to test out a few names before you find the right one! It can take some time to fully understand your puppy's personality, but once you do choosing their name might be a lot easier. Here are a few more names that could make a great fit for a female labrador puppy.
Name | Description |
Lacey | A soft and elegant name, perfect for a gentle and graceful dog. |
Sadie | A sweet and friendly name, ideal for a cheerful and lovable dog. |
Madie | A playful and quirky name, perfect for an energetic dog full of personality. |
Molly | A classic, sweet name that suits a gentle and affectionate dog. |
Munchkin | A fun, cute name for a small, adorable dog that’s full of spunk. |
Reba | Inspired by the country singer, great for a strong and independent dog. |
Kara | A short and simple name, perfect for a dog that’s strong, independent, and bold. |
Stella | Elegant and celestial, great for a dog that’s the star of the show. |
Callie | A warm and friendly name, perfect for a sweet and caring dog. |
Penny | A cute, classic name, ideal for a dog that brings a lot of joy and happiness. |
Blu | A cool, short name, great for a dog with a calm, collected nature. |
Mochi | Inspired by the sweet Japanese treat, perfect for a cute and soft dog. |
Brie | A sophisticated name, ideal for a charming and refined dog. |
Khloe | A trendy and stylish name, perfect for a fashionable dog with personality. |
Alfie | A classic and charming name, great for a dog with a lot of character. |
Holly | A festive and cheerful name, perfect for a dog that brightens up the room. |
Birdie | A sweet and light-hearted name, ideal for a playful and lively dog. |
Lulu | A cute and bubbly name, great for a dog that’s energetic and full of life. |
Bodhi | A peaceful and spiritual name, perfect for a calm, wise, and centered dog. |
Inky | A playful and mysterious name, ideal for a black dog or one with a curious nature. |
What is the Best Name for a Labrador?
Your Labrador will be the talk of the town with one of these fantastic names: Finnigan, Hudson, Jersey, Lulu, Maisie, Onyx, Parker, or Rusty.6
What to Name a Black Lab?
If you have a black Lab, maybe a name like Anise, Ash/Asher, Coal/Cole, Espresso, or Guinness could be a great fit.5
What is a Cool Dog Name?
For a cool and unique name for a female dog, test options like Amabel, Ismay, or Aziza. If you have a male dog, try names like Enzo, Ozzy, Sparrow, Wolf, Blaze, or Zeppelin. Unique options for male dogs include Benno, Odyssey, and Espen.4
Name | Description |
Alder | A strong tree, symbolizing resilience and nature – perfect for an adventurous Labrador. |
Ashford | A distinguished name for a dignified and noble Labrador with a strong presence. |
Blaze | For a Labrador with fiery energy, always moving fast and leaving a trail of excitement. |
Bramble | Inspired by wild woods, perfect for a Labrador with a love for nature and adventure. |
Canyon | For a Labrador with a strong, adventurous spirit, just like a rugged canyon. |
Cedar | A name for a Labrador with a grounded, calm demeanor, like the sturdy cedar tree. |
Copper | A warm and vibrant name, ideal for a golden or reddish-colored Labrador. |
Dune | Perfect for a Labrador with a free, untamed spirit, like the shifting sands of the dunes. |
Echo | Ideal for a Labrador whose personality and presence are always felt. |
Flint | For a Labrador with a sharp, tough nature, like the fire-starting stone. |
Hawk | A bold and graceful name, ideal for a Labrador with keen instincts and an alert mind. |
Horizon | For a Labrador whose energy and potential seem endless, always looking toward new horizons. |
Ivy | A gentle, nature-inspired name for a Labrador with a loving and steadfast personality. |
Jade | A name that symbolizes strength and beauty, perfect for a Labrador with both qualities. |
Koa | A strong, Hawaiian name for a Labrador with a brave, enduring spirit. |
Marble | For a Labrador with a polished, elegant coat and a calm demeanor. |
Oak | A sturdy, noble name for a Labrador who is dependable and strong. |
Pine | A nature-inspired name for a Labrador who loves the outdoors and is always full of energy. |
Raven | For a Labrador with a dark, mysterious coat or a sharp, watchful demeanor. |
Sable | A rich, dark name, perfect for a Labrador with a glossy black or brown coat. |
Sterling | A refined name for a Labrador with a noble, silver-like quality. |
Talon | Ideal for a Labrador with a fierce and protective nature. |
Valley | For a Labrador with a peaceful and grounding personality, like a serene valley. |
Whisper | For a Labrador whose gentle nature speaks volumes with just a glance. |
Zara | A regal name for a Labrador with a commanding and confident personality. |
Aspen | For a Labrador with a calming presence, like the cool, peaceful aspen trees. |
Bolt | A high-energy name for a Labrador who’s always moving at lightning speed. |
Charcoal | For a Labrador with a dark, sleek coat and a fiery spirit. |
Comet | Ideal for a Labrador who moves swiftly, shining brightly in everything they do. |
Drake | A strong, majestic name for a Labrador with a bold, adventurous spirit. |
Ember | For a Labrador with a fiery, passionate personality that never burns out. |
Frost | A cool, calm name for a Labrador with a composed and balanced temperament. |
Gale | For a Labrador who’s as powerful and unyielding as the wind. |
Hawk | A sharp name for a Labrador with excellent instincts and a keen eye for everything. |
Indigo | A name that reflects the Labrador’s deep and thoughtful nature, perfect for a calm dog. |
Jet | A name for a fast-moving Labrador with an energetic, sleek personality. |
Kai | A Hawaiian name meaning "sea," ideal for a Labrador with a free-spirited nature. |
Lynx | For a sharp-eyed Labrador who’s quick, observant, and agile. |
Maverick | For a Labrador who loves to break the rules and march to their own beat. |
Nash | A name that signifies power and resilience, perfect for a tough, reliable Labrador. |
Onyx | A bold, dark name for a Labrador with a mysterious and strong presence. |
Phoenix | Symbolizing rebirth and strength, perfect for a Labrador who rises above challenges. |
Quest | For a Labrador with an adventurous spirit, always seeking out the next journey. |
Reed | A nature-inspired name for a Labrador with a calming, peaceful disposition. |
Shale | A unique name for a Labrador with a tough, enduring character. |
Tucker | A laid-back, relaxed name, ideal for a Labrador with a calm demeanor. |
Vega | A celestial name for a Labrador with a star-like energy that shines brightly. |
Wolfe | For a Labrador with a wild, independent spirit. |
Xander | A strong, unique name for a Labrador with a protective and loyal nature. |
Zane | A name representing strength and confidence, perfect for a courageous Labrador. |
Arlo | A friendly, approachable name for a Labrador with an easy-going, sociable personality. |
Brooks | For a Labrador with a free-spirited and adventurous soul, just like a babbling brook. |
Cliff | A strong, rugged name for a Labrador with a bold and enduring nature. |
Dexter | A clever, intelligent name for a Labrador who loves to problem-solve and explore. |
Elwood | A unique name for a Labrador with a refined and graceful personality. |
Flicker | For a Labrador whose energy is like a flickering flame, always lively and bright. |
Glade | A peaceful name, perfect for a Labrador who brings calm and serenity to everyone around them. |
Hickory | For a Labrador with a sturdy, strong nature, just like the tough hickory wood. |
Iron | A name symbolizing strength, perfect for a tough and dependable Labrador. |
Juno | A regal name for a Labrador with a dignified and noble demeanor. |
Knox | A strong name for a Labrador with a rugged and resilient personality. |
Lark | For a Labrador with a cheerful, musical spirit, always lifting everyone’s mood. |
Moss | A unique, earthy name, perfect for a Labrador with a calm and grounded nature. |
Nova | A brilliant and energetic name for a Labrador who lights up the room. |
Piper | For a Labrador who loves to stay active, always running and playing, like a piper’s tune. |
Quinn | A dignified name for a Labrador with both intelligence and charm. |
Ridge | A strong name for a Labrador with a tough, enduring character, like a mountain ridge. |
Sable | A sleek, dark name for a Labrador with a glossy black coat. |
Talon | A strong and striking name for a Labrador with sharp instincts and a protective nature. |
Ursus | Latin for "bear," perfect for a Labrador with a large, strong build. |
Vail | A serene name for a Labrador who has a peaceful and quiet nature. |
Wren | A graceful name for a Labrador with a light and agile personality. |
Xenon | A unique, radiant name for a Labrador who stands out with an undeniable glow. |
Yara | An energetic and vibrant name for a Labrador who is always full of life. |
Zara | A royal and elegant name for a Labrador with a commanding presence. |
Have a Boy Labrador? Check out these boy dog names
How can Pet Health Insurance Help?
Dog Insurance can help provide financial assistance for covered bills in case of unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries. Pet health insurance can help pet parents manage the cost of high vet bills and help ensure their pets can receive the best treatment possible.
Here are some ways that Spot pet insurance plans can help:
Covers Unexpected Veterinary Costs: Spot pet insurance plans cover the eligible costs of unexpected veterinary treatments like emergency surgeries, X-rays, and prescription medications for covered conditions.
Customizable Plans: Choose your annual limit, reimbursement rate, and deductible from a range of options, and create the plan that will fit the needs of your pet and your budget.
Peace of Mind: With Spot pet insurance plans, pet parents can rest easy knowing they can provide the best care for their pet with less worry about the cost.
To learn more about Spot Plans or to get a free quote, click here.
With 15 years as a dog and cat parent, my pet articles are a mix of humor and firsthand experience - proof that the best stories often come with paws and purrs.
Common health problems in labradors. (n.d.). Purina. https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/dogs/health/symptoms/labrador-health-problems
Cosgrove, N. (2024, May 6). 150+ labrador retriever names: Popular & Unique lab names 2024 – Dogster. Dogster. https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/labrador-retriever-dog-names
DogTime. (2024, April 25). Labrador retriever. DogTime. https://dogtime.com/dog-breeds/labrador-retriever
McKeon, Brynn. “570+ Cool Dog Names.” Nameberry, Nameberry, 14 Feb. 2024, nameberry.com/list/1388/cool-dog-names.
Brown, Jackie. “Love Black Labs? You’ll Love These Names.” The Spruce Pets, The Spruce Pets, 11 July 2024, www.thesprucepets.com/black-lab-names-5093386.
Deering, Shelby. “300 Most Popular Labrador Retriever Names.” Rover, Rover.com, www.rover.com/blog/labrador-names-retriever-dog-names/.
