From Big Dog Names to Small Dog Names and Everything in Between
So you’ve just adopted a dog, and you’re gearing up for years of love, laughter and adventure
with a new best friend. But first, you have to make a big decision and pick your dog’s name. This is an important moment for both you and your pup. You want it to be something that sounds good to both of you, and also suits your pet’s personality. We put together this handy guide to give you some inspiration. Hopefully, it helps you put the right name to your furry friend’s face!
Dog Names from Movies
Beethoven: Who doesn’t remember this lovable St. Bernard? In this film, a litter of puppies escapes from a store, and one eventually wanders his way into the home of the Newton family. They name him Beethoven, and he wins over the family’s reluctant father by helping the Newton children solve various problems in their lives. Eventually, Beethoven and the Newton family team up to stop a vet who is experimenting on dogs, and rescue all of the dogs in his care. Beethoven is the perfect name for a dog with a goofy personality and a heroic heart.
Copper: Copper is the furry star at the heart of Disney’s classic film The Fox and the Hound. In the movie, Copper is trained to be a hunting dog and is expected to track foxes. Instead, he meets and befriends a fox named Tod, and the two end up saving Copper’s owner from an angry bear. The kindhearted and heroic Copper is a great inspiration for your new dog’s name.
Hachi: This name comes from a 2009 film called Hachi: A Dog’s Tale. Hachi tells the story of a devoted Akita dog whose name comes from the Japanese word for “eight,” which is thought to be a lucky number. Hachi follows his master to the train station every morning, and meets him on the platform to walk him home after he returns from work. After his owner tragically passes away while at work one day, Hachi spends the rest of his life waiting at the train station. If you’d like to raise a loyal pup, or a lucky one, Hachi might just be the perfect name.
Lady: Here’s another name from an animated Disney classic. In the film, Lady is a cocker spaniel puppy pampered from birth by her wealthy owners. She meets a stray terrier mutt named Tramp, and despite their very different backgrounds, the two become friends. After Tramp saves Lady from her kind owners’ not-so-kind relative, Lady’s owners take him in and the two dogs become parents to a litter of puppies. Inspired by a heartwarming film, Lady makes a classy and affectionate name for a female dog.
Small Dog Names
Daisy: How adorable is this name for a small dog? Inspired by a delicate flower, this name would suit any sweet and dainty girl. In the language of flowers, daisies also symbolize hope, innocence and fresh starts. What a perfect pick for a new pup!
Bambi: Is any name associated with cuteness quite like the name Bambi? This one could also be filed under movie-inspired names for dogs, since it ultimately comes from Disney’s darling deer. But, it’s so well-suited to a small dog that we decided to list it here. We can just picture the cute and cuddly girl who would come running when you call: “Here, Bambi!”
Dash: Have you ever noticed how the littlest dogs have the most outsized energies? Tiny dogs have a tendency to zoom around, climb, jump and generally cause (fun) chaos. If you have a hyper little guy on your hands, consider naming him Dash. It’s the perfect name to call as you play chase around the yard.
Big Dog Names
Bear: Some dogs are so big and shaggy they resemble other, more fearsome creatures. For those dogs, there’s no better name than Bear. Though bears themselves may be scary to some, the name is still associated with plenty of cute and cuddly things–Pooh Bear, teddy bears, and, just maybe, your new best friend!
Clifford: Your dog doesn’t need to be red to be worthy of this name. This iconic dog has his own book series, television series, and several films. Regardless of how his story is told, Clifford always has the same disposition: sweet, fun-loving and infinitely loyal to his young owner, Emily Elizabeth.
Titan: This name comes with a fascinating history. In Greek mythology, the titans were the pre-Olympian gods. They are depicted as giants, ruling over the Earth from the sky. If your dog is large and in charge, Titan may just be the perfect name for him. The Titans are also the mascot of Tennessee’s football team, so if you’re a sports fan, this is a great name to consider.
Hunting Dog Names
Scout: For the sharp-nosed trackers, names don’t get any more perfect than this. We can’t imagine a dog named Scout being anything but a fantastic hunting buddy. If you’re ready for the best hunting seasons of your life, call your furry friend Scout.
Gunner: You may be the one holding the gun, but this makes a great name for the loyal companion by your side. It’s hard to top this one in terms of hunting-related names. Plus, how fun would it be to say go get ‘em, Gunner?
Maverick: Maverick is an increasingly popular name for both kids and pets. It makes sense: this bold name conjures up a sense of adventure and an independent streak. It’s a great pick for a dog who loves to explore, and who trusts his instincts to get him–and you–where you need to be.
Food Names for Dogs
Cookie: Does your new dog like to cuddle right up to you on the couch or nap on your lap? If your dog is sweeter than sugar, Cookie may just be the name for her. If “Cookie” is too generic, you can also consider specific versions of this tasty treat, like Gingerbread, Biscotti or Oreo (which is a particularly cute name for a black-and-white dog).
Mochi: Mochi is a Japanese dessert that’s quickly gaining popularity in the States. These bite-sized delights are filled with ice cream and wrapped in sweet, chewy rice dough. “Mochi” is also just really fun to say, don’t you think? This name is cute for any dog, but would be especially good for an Akita, Shiba or other Japanese breed.
Marshmallow: If you’ve adopted a fluffy dog of any sort, but particularly a fluffy white dog, can you think of a name more perfect than Marshmallow? This is also an adorable name for an outdoorsy dog who loves family camping trips and bonfires.
Unisex Dog Names
Riley: You’ve probably met both men and women named Riley before. It’s a great name for humans, and it’s a great name for dogs! Derived from the Gaelic word for “courageous” or “valiant,” this is a fantastic moniker for an Irish setter, or any brave dog who’s always up for adventure.
Bailey: Here’s another unisex name that’s also popular among humans. This cheery and playful name also comes from Gaelic. Bailey has its roots in the word for “steward.” If your dog is a good caretaker, maybe he or she is meant to be a Bailey.
Shadow: It may sound a bit dark and mysterious, but Shadow also makes us think of a dog who lovingly follows its owner around. Has your new pup been sticking by your side ever since you met? You’ve got a little Shadow on your hands!
Human Names for Dogs
Charlie: Charlie comes from an old German word meaning “free man.” If your dog has an independent streak, he might be a Charlie. Famous Charlies include Charlie Chaplin, country star Charlie Daniels, and King Charles of England. Charlie is also a spunky nickname for Charlotte, so it works for a female dog, too.
Lucy: The name Lucy traces its origins back to the early days of the English language, and it means “light.” Take that as literally or metaphorically as you want: maybe your dog has a light-colored coat, or maybe she’s the light of your life. It’s also just an all-around pretty-sounding name. Lucy is also a name with big pop culture connotations, including comedian Lucille Ball and the Beatles’ hit song “Lucy in the Sky With Diamonds.”
Bella: Bella has its roots in the Latin and Italian words for ‘beautiful.’ It’s a wonderful name for a dog who gets a lot of compliments on her stunning coat or striking eyes. Your little beauty queen is destined for dog stardom with a name like Bella.
Otis: The name Otis is derived from an old English word meaning “wealth.” It has a classic, undeniable charm and is perfectly suited to a dog with an old soul. The most famous Otis is probably Otis Redding, one of the pioneers of the R&B genre. But you don’t have to be a music connoisseur to appreciate this name and its quaint, old-school vibes.
Do Dogs Know Their Name?
Yes! The scientific consensus is that dogs can understand up to 150 words, including their own names. This means that they understand about as many words as the average two-year-old child.
How Do Dogs Know Their Name?
It’s simple: dogs know their names because you teach them. That’s why it’s important to choose a name for your dog early on, and to use it frequently.
How Do You Teach a Dog Their Name?
Tips for teaching your dog his or her name include using positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, when your dog responds appropriately to being called. It’s a good idea not to use their name too much when teaching commands, as they may confuse it with the action you want them to perform–and you don’t want your pup thinking his name is “sit,” do you?
Visit Mighty Pet for Everything Your Dog Needs Beyond the Name
We hope this list of unique dog names and their meanings gave you some ideas to help christen your new companion! Whatever you decide to call your pup, he or she will need more than just a name. For all of your dog’s needs, from nutritious food to dog trainers near you, come visit us in-store or online here at Mighty Pet in Menominee, Michigan.
