Think back to your last visit to a dog park or a dog-friendly beach - how many different names did you hear? From human names like "Scott" and "Jack" to typical pet names like "Spot" and "Milo" the options are truly endless. While this can be part of the fun, it can also make it more difficult for pet parents trying to name a new puppy. If you've found yourself struggling to decide on a name for your new best friend, here are a few tips to help make this decision a little easier.
Looking for More Girl Dog Names?
Expert Tips for Naming a Puppy
Keep it short and sweet. If you’ve ever had a dog – or know any dog parents – you know that no matter what name you choose, it'll likely morph over time into an array of nicknames. Experts recommend choosing a two-syllable name for your dog. This helps make it easier for your pet to learn their new name.
Avoid names that sound like commands. While a name like “Kit” is short and sweet, to a dog it can sound a lot like 'sit' and cause some confusion when you try to recall your pet or practice the command.
Test the name. Sometimes, once a new pet is home, pet parents realize the name they picked out just doesn't suit their puppy. Don't worry, this is common! Test out a few names until you find the right one.
Looking for a Meaningful Dog Name?
Popular Boy Dog Names From A-Z
If you're still struggling to find the right name for your new puppy, here is a list of popular names for boy dogs to help get you started. If your puppy is a girl, check out our list for popular girl dog names.
ACE | FINN | MURPHY | SAM |
ARCHIE | GUS | MILO | SKIPPY |
AXEL | GUNNER | MILES | SPARKY |
ASHER | GUCCI | MAVERICK | SARGE |
APOLLO | GEORGE | MOOSE | SHADOW |
BAILEY | HARRY | NEMO | TITAN |
BEAR | HENRY | NASH | TIGER |
BO | HARLEY | NORTH | THEO |
BENTLEY | HANK | OAKLEY | UTAH |
BLAZE | IGGY | OZZIE | UNO |
CASH | IKE | OWEN | VINNIE |
COOPER | JERRY | OTIS | VADER |
CHIP | JACK | ODIE | WATTS |
CHARLIE | JOEY | PORTER | WALTER |
DASH | JACKSON | PRINCE | WHISKEY |
DUKE | KYLO | PEANUT | WINSTON |
DEXTER | KOBE | PEPPER | WALLY |
ENZO | KENZO | QUIRK | WATSON |
EAST | KONA | QUINCY | XAVIER |
ELLIOT | LINCOLN | QUENTIN | XANDER |
EMBER | LUCKY | REMY | YELLER |
ECHO | LEO | RUSTY | YALE |
FOREST | LUCA | RANGER | ZEKE |
FLETCHER | MACK | RAMBO | ZIGGY |
FRANK | MILO | SCOUT | ZEUS |
More Dog Names in Alphabetical Order
A
Name | Description |
Angel | Ideal for a sweet, gentle, and loving companion. |
Aspen | Perfect for a nature-loving dog, named after the beautiful tree. |
Ash | A cool, edgy name for a sleek or dark-colored dog. |
Ava | A simple yet elegant name for a graceful pup. |
Atlas | For a dog that feels larger than life, like the Titan who held the sky. |
August | A regal name for a dignified dog, inspired by the summer month. |
Aurora | A magical name for a dog as beautiful as the Northern Lights. |
Have a Labrador? Check Out These Labrador Names
B
Name | Description |
Bandit | Perfect for a mischievous and clever troublemaker. |
Bella | A classic name meaning “beautiful,” for a charming dog. |
Benny | A cute and friendly name for a loyal companion. |
Biscuit | Adorable and sweet, just like your fluffy treat of a dog. |
Blu | A modern, stylish name, perfect for a dog with unique coloring. |
Bonnie | A cheerful name, meaning “pretty” in Scottish. |
Bruno | A strong and bold name for a tough or large dog. |
Bubbles | Fun and quirky, great for a bubbly, energetic dog. |
Buttercup | Sweet and gentle, perfect for a loving, cuddly pup. |
C
Name | Description |
Chase | Perfect for an active dog who loves to run and play. |
Coco | A chic and trendy name for a fashionable pup. |
Cody | A loyal and friendly name, ideal for a dependable companion. |
Copper | Great for a reddish-brown dog or a natural explorer. |
Cookie | Sweet and irresistible, just like your furry friend. |
Cosmo | A stellar name for a pup who’s out of this world. |
Cricket | Playful and cute, great for a small, lively dog. |
Cupid | Perfect for a loving dog who steals hearts. |
Cyrus | A regal and strong name, inspired by ancient kings. |
D
Name | Description |
Daisy | A bright and cheerful name, inspired by the flower. |
Dakota | A strong, adventurous name for an outdoor-loving dog. |
Diesel | A powerful name for a tough and energetic dog. |
Dixie | A Southern-inspired name for a sweet and friendly pup. |
Dolly | Cute and classic, great for a gentle, loving dog. |
Domino | Fun and unique, perfect for a spotted or black-and-white dog. |
Dusty | Perfect for a sandy or earth-toned pup who loves the outdoors. |
Doodle | Playful and fun, great for a goofy and lovable dog. |
Have a Husky? Check Out These Husky Names
E
Name | Description |
Eddie | A cheerful and friendly name for a lovable companion. |
Ellie | Sweet and adorable, perfect for a kind-hearted dog. |
Everest | Perfect for a brave and adventurous pup, inspired by the mountain. |
Evie | A delicate and cute name for a gentle dog. |
Espresso | Great for a high-energy dog that keeps you on your toes. |
Ezra | A unique and cool name for a strong and thoughtful dog. |
Elsa | For a graceful and elegant dog, inspired by the snow queen. |
F
Name | Description |
Fido | A classic dog name, meaning “faithful” in Latin. |
Fluffy | Great for a furry dog with a soft, huggable coat. |
Fiona | Perfect for a sweet and gentle dog with charm. |
Felix | A lucky name for a dog that brings joy. |
Freddie | Friendly and lovable, a perfect fit for an easygoing dog. |
Frankie | A cool, laid-back name for a fun-loving pup. |
Fudge | Sweet and rich, like your lovable dog. |
Frosty | Great for a white or winter-loving dog. |
Fern | A nature-inspired name, perfect for an earthy pup. |
G
Name | Description |
Gabby | A lively name for a vocal or talkative pup. |
Galaxy | Perfect for a dog with a starry, unique personality. |
Ginger | Ideal for a reddish or spice-loving dog. |
Gizmo | A quirky and fun name for a clever or small dog. |
Goldie | Great for a golden or cheerful pup with a sunny personality. |
Goose | A playful and silly name for a funny dog. |
Gracie | Sweet and elegant, ideal for a gentle, graceful pup. |
Grover | A friendly, down-to-earth name for a loving companion. |
H
Name | Description |
Hazel | A warm, earthy name, perfect for a kind and loving dog. |
Honey | Sweet and affectionate, ideal for a loving pup. |
Hunter | Perfect for an active dog with a keen sense of adventure. |
Hudson | A sophisticated name for a strong and reliable dog. |
Hope | A meaningful name for a dog that brings joy and inspiration. |
Hugo | A strong, unique name for a brave and confident dog. |
Holly | Great for a cheerful pup, especially around the holidays. |
Halo | Ideal for a dog with a gentle and angelic nature. |
I
Name | Description |
Ivy | A nature-inspired name for a graceful and loyal pup. |
Indigo | A unique and bold name for a vibrant, colorful dog. |
Izzy | A playful and spunky name for a lively companion. |
Ice | Cool and sleek, perfect for a white or calm dog. |
Inky | Great for a dark-colored dog with a creative streak. |
Iris | A classic, floral name for a delicate and beautiful pup. |
Igor | A quirky and strong name for a distinctive dog. |
India | A bold and exotic name for an adventurous pup. |
Icarus | Mythical and bold, great for a brave and daring dog. |
Ivory | Perfect for a cream-colored or elegant dog. |
J
Name | Description |
Jasper | A sophisticated name for a clever and charming pup. |
Juno | Inspired by the Roman goddess, perfect for a regal dog. |
Jojo | A fun, playful name for a spirited and joyful dog. |
Jade | Elegant and beautiful, ideal for a graceful companion. |
Jet | A sleek, modern name for a fast or black-colored dog. |
Jelly | Sweet and quirky, perfect for a lovable, silly pup. |
Jax | A trendy and cool name for an energetic and strong dog. |
Juniper | A nature-inspired name for a lively and adventurous pup. |
Jazz | Perfect for a smooth, stylish, and lively dog. |
K
Name | Description |
Kai | A Hawaiian name meaning “sea,” great for a water-loving dog. |
Koda | A Native American name meaning “friend,” perfect for a loyal pup. |
Kiki | A fun, lively name for a quirky and adorable dog. |
King | A regal and strong name for a confident and powerful dog. |
Karma | A meaningful name for a gentle and balanced pup. |
Knox | A cool and modern name for a bold and adventurous dog. |
Koko | A playful and cute name for a sweet and lovable pup. |
Kiwi | Perfect for a small, colorful, or energetic dog. |
Kane | A strong and bold name for a tough or protective dog. |
Kit | A short, sleek name for a clever and agile dog. |
L
Name | Description |
Luna | A celestial name, perfect for a dog as beautiful as the moon. |
Lily | A delicate and sweet floral name for a gentle pup. |
Loki | A mischievous name, ideal for a clever and playful dog. |
Louie | A charming and classic name for a fun-loving companion. |
Lulu | A cute and bubbly name for a cheerful, happy dog. |
Link | A bold, heroic name for an adventurous pup. |
Lady | A graceful and classic name for an elegant dog. |
Lynx | Perfect for a sleek, wild-looking dog with a unique personality. |
M
Name | Description |
Max | A classic, strong name for a bold and dependable dog. |
Maggie | A friendly and timeless name for a loyal and gentle pup. |
Mochi | Cute and sweet, like the soft Japanese treat. |
Maddie | Playful and fun, great for a cheerful and outgoing dog. |
Misty | A delicate name, ideal for a serene and calm dog. |
Marley | Perfect for a dog with a laid-back, musical personality. |
Murphy | A classic name for a friendly and easygoing dog. |
Maple | Sweet and warm, like the syrup, great for a golden or reddish pup. |
N
Name | Description |
Nala | A regal name, inspired by the lioness from The Lion King . |
Nova | A celestial name for a pup that shines brightly. |
Nico | A short and trendy name for a charming and friendly dog. |
Nibbles | Playful and fun, great for a small or mischievous pup. |
Nina | A sweet and elegant name for a gentle companion. |
Nutmeg | Warm and cozy, perfect for a brown or spice-colored dog. |
Noah | A classic and timeless name for a loyal and dependable pup. |
Nugget | Adorable and fun, ideal for a small or golden-colored dog. |
Nyx | A bold name, inspired by the Greek goddess of the night. |
O
Name | Description |
Olive | A cute and quirky name, great for a small or gentle pup. |
Oscar | A classic and dignified name for a loyal companion. |
Opal | A gem-inspired name for a unique and beautiful dog. |
Oreo | Perfect for a black-and-white pup that’s sweet and lovable. |
Ozzy | A cool, rock-star name for an energetic and bold pup. |
Onyx | Sleek and elegant, perfect for a dark-coated dog. |
Ollie | A cheerful and friendly name for a playful companion. |
Orbit | Ideal for a dog who’s always moving and full of energy. |
P
Name | Description |
Piper | A lively and playful name for a cheerful dog. |
Poppy | A bright and cheerful name, inspired by the flower. |
Pebbles | Cute and fun, perfect for a small, spotted dog. |
Pumpkin | Sweet and cozy, great for a dog with a warm-colored coat. |
Panda | Ideal for a black-and-white dog with a cuddly personality. |
Penny | A charming name for a lovable and loyal pup. |
Pixie | A magical, fairy-like name for a small and playful dog. |
Pluto | A classic name, inspired by Mickey Mouse’s canine companion. |
Q
Name | Description |
Queenie | A regal and elegant name for a graceful dog. |
Quill | A unique and creative name for an artistic dog. |
Quinn | A trendy and gender-neutral name for a stylish pup. |
Quest | Perfect for an adventurous dog who loves exploring. |
Quartz | Inspired by the crystal, great for a unique and precious dog. |
Quokka | A playful and quirky name for a cheerful and friendly dog. |
Quasar | A celestial name for a dog that shines brightly. |
Quibble | Fun and whimsical, perfect for a quirky and energetic pup. |
Quixie | A lighthearted, playful name for a fun-loving dog. |
R
Name | Description |
Rex | A classic, strong name for a kingly dog. |
Rosie | A sweet and floral name for a gentle pup. |
Rocky | Perfect for a tough, energetic, and playful dog. |
Raven | Sleek and elegant, ideal for a black-coated dog. |
Riley | A cheerful and friendly name for an outgoing pup. |
Ruby | A gem-inspired name for a beautiful and precious dog. |
Rufus | A charming, old-fashioned name for a loyal companion. |
Rio | A vibrant, energetic name for a lively dog. |
S
Name | Description |
Sadie | Sweet and charming, great for a loving dog. |
Sasha | A trendy and stylish name for a graceful dog. |
Sammy | A friendly and classic name for a loyal pup. |
Skye | A bright and airy name, inspired by the heavens. |
Snow | Perfect for a white-coated dog with a cool personality. |
Sunny | Great for a cheerful, happy-go-lucky pup. |
Star | A celestial name for a dog that shines brightly. |
Sugar | Sweet and lovable, perfect for a cuddly pup. |
T
Name | Description |
Teddy | A cuddly and adorable name for a lovable dog. |
Thor | A strong and bold name, inspired by the Norse god. |
Tilly | A playful and cheerful name for a happy dog. |
Tank | Perfect for a big, tough pup. |
Toby | A timeless, friendly name for a loyal companion. |
Twinkle | Ideal for a sparkly, bright-eyed pup. |
Trixie | Fun and spunky, ideal for an energetic pup. |
Tulip | A sweet and floral name for a gentle dog. |
Tango | A lively, rhythmic name for a playful pup. |
U
Name | Description |
Ursa | Inspired by the constellation, ideal for a majestic dog. |
Umi | A Japanese name meaning "sea," great for a water-loving pup. |
Umbra | A mysterious and elegant name for a dark-coated dog. |
Ulric | A strong and noble name for a bold dog. |
Uma | Simple and graceful, perfect for an elegant dog. |
Udon | Fun and quirky, great for a noodle-loving or playful pup. |
Uriel | A celestial name, inspired by the archangel, for a bright and loyal pup. |
Unity | A meaningful name for a dog that brings people together. |
V
Name | Description |
Violet | A beautiful floral name for a gentle and sweet pup. |
Victor | A strong and classic name for a confident dog. |
Vera | Elegant and timeless, perfect for a graceful companion. |
Venus | Inspired by the Roman goddess of love, ideal for a stunning dog. |
Viper | A bold name for a sleek and fast dog. |
Velvet | Perfect for a soft-coated and luxurious pup. |
Vienna | Sophisticated and sweet, great for a refined companion. |
Vesper | A mysterious and unique name for a twilight-loving pup. |
Valor | A strong and heroic name for a brave dog. |
W
Name | Description |
Willow | A graceful, nature-inspired name for a gentle pup. |
Waffles | Fun and quirky, great for a sweet and silly dog. |
Whitney | A sophisticated name for an elegant dog. |
Wolf | A bold and strong name for a wild-spirited dog. |
Winter | Perfect for a white-coated dog or one born in winter. |
Whiskers | Great for a dog with prominent whiskers or a playful personality. |
Wren | A delicate, bird-inspired name for a small, graceful pup. |
Wizard | A magical and fun name for a clever and unique dog. |
Read More: Best Viking Dog Names
X
Name | Description |
Xena | Inspired by the warrior princess, ideal for a brave pup. |
Xyla | A creative and melodic name for a unique pup. |
Xoxo | Sweet and loving, perfect for a cuddly and affectionate dog. |
Xango | A bold, exotic name for a spirited and adventurous pup. |
Xerox | Fun and quirky, great for a playful or identical-looking pup. |
Ximena | A beautiful, exotic name for a graceful dog. |
Xylia | Inspired by the forest, perfect for a nature-loving pup. |
Xane | A modern, sleek name for a stylish dog. |
Read about military-inspired dog names here
Y
Name | Description |
Yuki | A Japanese name meaning “snow,” great for a white-coated dog. |
Yara | A graceful, exotic name for a unique pup. |
Yogi | A fun, chill name for a relaxed and lovable dog. |
Yara | Meaning "small butterfly," perfect for a dainty pup. |
Yeti | A playful name for a fluffy or large dog. |
York | A sophisticated name for a small, classy dog like a Yorkshire Terrier. |
Yoda | A fun, geeky name for a wise and quirky pup. |
Yvonne | Elegant and timeless, perfect for a graceful companion. |
Yoshi | A playful and friendly name for a happy dog. |
Yucca | A nature-inspired name for a rugged and unique pup. |
Z
Name | Description |
Zoe | A lively and cheerful name for a spirited dog. |
Zara | A chic and stylish name for an elegant pup. |
Zelda | A bold, adventurous name for a courageous pup. |
Zorro | Perfect for a sleek and mysterious dog. |
Zuma | A trendy name for a water-loving or adventurous pup. |
Zippy | Great for a fast and energetic dog. |
Zinnia | A floral name for a beautiful and bright pup. |
Dog Names by Breed
What is a cool name for a boy dog?
If you're looking for a cool name for your dog, one approach is to name him after a mythological figure like Zeus or Apollo, or a character from a popular show like White Lotus, The Last of Us, etc.
What is a rare name for a boy dog?
Pet parents tend to choose short names for their pets, since this can make it easier for young pets to learn their names. If you want to give your pet a rare name, your best bet would be to give them a longer name. For example, some of the pets covered under Spot have names like Habanero Destroyer of Worlds, Conel Jack Snuggle Bottom III Earl of Cuteness, or Octavius Augustus Meowmisimo Ragnaroth Nutmeg. We're confident you've never met pets with those same names before. These pet parents won the fight for rare pet names*. If you're interested in more names like these, you might enjoy this blog on the most unforgettable pet names of 2025.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the perfect name for your puppy is the name that resonates with you. Whether you decide to give them a name that's one of a kind or not, your puppy will learn their name with time. If you're really struggling to name them, take some time to get to know your new puppy - naming them might come more naturally once you know their personality a little better. We hope this article has been helpful and wish you and your puppy a lifetime of fun and adventure. Good luck with your new pup!
As Spot’s resident cat enthusiast, I am dedicated to researching and sharing information that helps pet owners take the best care of their pets. Pet ownership comes with it’s share of challenges, but my goal is to help make this journey easier.
*Based on policy administrator data.
Top 250 Boy Dog Names | Wildearth
Most Popular Boy Dog Names | AKC
Rare Dog Names for Your One-of-a-Kind Canine | Trusted House Sitters
The Most Popular Dog Names of 2023 | AKC
