Most Popular Names for Puppies or Dogs

Ten Most Popular Dog Names

Are you looking for some inspiration in the world of dog names? Maybe you’ve just adopted a new dog or puppy, or maybe you’re just dreaming of that new furry family member. A lot of dogs come with a name already given to them by a shelter or rescue. Sometimes the dog has bonded with that name and it fits them, but other times you get the opportunity to come up with your own unique name for your new best friend. Most of us put a lot of thought into naming our new dog or puppy because it’s important to us. We realize our dog’s name will speak volumes about our own personality, insights, or sense of humor, but mostly, we want our dog to have an amazing name that fits their unique looks, spirit, and personality.

Trending Dog Names

Just like baby names, dog names rise and fall in popularity. The number of dogs named after “Frozen” characters rose 900 percent the year after the movie came out, so don’t be surprised if your dog meets an “Olaf” at daycare. Food and drink are favorite themes, too. There was a 37 percent rise in food-themed names from 2013 to 2014, so expect to run into a “Jameson,” “Bud” or “Java” on your daily walks. And at least 20 percent of dogs have human names like “Edward” or “Jesse.” Sports figures are a perennial favorite; the year Derek Jeter retired from the New York Yankees; “Jeter” was in the top 10 dog names. 

How to Choose the Right Dog Name

Dogs have an easier time hearing hard consonants and long vowels, so a name like “Lucky” or “Benny” will be easier for him to distinguish from other sounds. Most dog training experts recommend a one or two-syllable name that you can say quickly. It’s also commonly recommended that you avoid names that sound like commands, for example, “Kit,” which sounds like “sit,” or “Bo,” which sounds like “no.”

Pick a name you like to say (and that you won’t be embarrassed to yell across the dog park). You’ll be saying your puppy’s name a lot over time, as a quick attention grabber or just as part of their overall training and socialization. 

If you’re lucky, you’ll meet your dog, get to know them a bit, and come up with an inspired choice. But if you’re at a loss for a great dog name, here are the top 10 puppy names in the country right now.