Fido. Rover. Lady. Lassie. These once-popular dog names get a resounding "meh" from today's pet owners. Instead, human paw-rents are taking cues from trendy human monikers (hello, Hudson and Chloe), pop culture (we see you, Elsa) and their pup's heritage (while they didn't make the top of the list, historical names like Ninotchka for a Siberian husky and Seamus for an Irish setter are gaining serious traction). Here, the latest and greatest names for new four-legged...
The name Max means "greatest," which is, of course, perfect for your best pal. We like it because it's casual and straightforward but also has a little spunk to it.
A British surname that literally means "barrel maker," Cooper implies a very dignified sporting dog, but it's also super cute for an energetic Jack Russell terrier.
Literally: "Leader." Figuratively: "I own this dog park. Step aside."
An Irish name that means "fair," it's a perfect fit for graceful dog breeds like Irish setters and Irish wolfhounds.
This solid name has Old English roots with an all-American evocation. It's strong and brave-sounding (but not in a brutish way), with a dash of hipster flair.
This classic name projects a vibe of strength, loyalty, and virility, but also has just the right amount of boyish charm and silliness. Keep him away from the ladies!
Sure, your first thought may be of a movie about a fighter — and that's exactly why Rocky gives off that tough-guy or been-through-some-hard-times-but-I've-got-a-heart-of-gold vibe (and, of course, it's the obvious choice if your new pooch is a boxer).
We like this short-and-sweet name for small breeds because it most definitely has a cute-little-old-man ring to it (which is ideal for when they become seniors).
An Old English surname, Tucker just sounds fun. It's ideal for a lively, loveable scamp who's always in a good mood (even when you're scolding him for stealing food).
A unisex name that means "able," Bailey combines English, Irish, and Old French origins. To us, it also conjures images of a sweet, docile pooch that alternately loves to sunbathe, cuddle, and snooze.
If she were a cartoon character, she'd have bows in her hair and long, fluttery eyelashes. Yes, Bella translates to "beauty," but this name would work for a scraggly mutt, too, if she has a gentle, serene personality.
This name offers a certain European flair and is a particularly cute option for French breeds like Papillons and Bichon Frises. Umlaut optional, but it offers the ability to add a bit of international street cred!
Calling all Frozen fans! Elsa is trending thanks to the wildly popular Disney flick. And given the film's Scandinavian setting, we like this name for Nordic breeds like the Finnish Spitz and Swedish Lapphund.
While some may instinctively think of a climbing plant, Ivy also means "faithfulness." And since nearly all pups are known for providing loyal companionship, we think this name would suit any lady, big or small.
A diminutive, playful form of the name Margaret, this name calls to mind a friendly, bouncing British herding dog.
Sure, it's a cute word, but the real appeal of this name? Think of all the songs you can invent for her, putting "Sadie" together with "lady!"
Rooted in the word "star," this name is absolutely meant for the little girl who lights up your life from the minute you take her home.
Fact: Some dogs are smarter than others. So give this name, which means "wisdom," to canine Einsteins like border collies, poodles, German shepherds, and golden retrievers.
