There are some zany (but cute) pet names out there, like Ruckus or Cricket. However, when it comes down to it, certain monikers seem to pop up again and again for our furry friends. (And despite the stereotype, they don’t often include Rover or Fido.) Names like Bella and Charlie are top picks for lots of pet parents, but what do these popular pet names mean?
10 Popular Dog Names
These are some of the most popular dog names of all time and ones that are trending. Many show up on lists of the best dog names again and again. Is your dog’s name one of them?
1. Max
Max has been one of the top dog names for years, perhaps because of its friendly, easygoing vibe. The name Max means “greatest.” It’s also the name of Prince Eric’s lovable dog in The Little Mermaid.
2. Cooper
The name Cooper is a favorite of pup parents. Its literal meaning is “barrel-maker” but people choose this name for their dogs because of its charm and down-to-earth energy.
3. Ivy
You may not have thought about naming your dog after a climbing vine, but tons of other people did. (Maybe they’re all Batman fans – Poison Ivy?) Whatever the reason, Ivy has consistently ranked high on the charts for top dog names over the years.
4. Bentley
The name Bentley means, “meadow with coarse grass,” but that’s probably not why people pick it for their pup. Bentley is a top pick for boy dogs. Maybe it’s due to a love for luxury cars, or maybe it’s just because it sounds cool.
5. Bailey
The name Bailey is derived from the word bailiff, evoking a sense of strength and loyalty. It’s a good name for girl and boy dogs.
6. Zeus
The God of Thunder’s name is also a popular pet name, especially for male dogs. It’s often paired up with large breeds, but it’s equally impressive on small and medium-sized pups.
7. Zoe
The name Zoe has Greek roots and means “life.” It’s a favorite for female dogs. It’s sweet, sassy, and perfect for a pup that loves to play and socialize.
8. Bear
Bear is another prominent dog name. People often associate bears with strength and also comfort, likely because of a teddy bear. It makes sense that you’d want to give your cute, fuzzy pup an equally adorable name.
9. Daisy
Daisy sounds sweet, kind, and gentle, making it a great match for a pup with those qualities. It’s also a favorite for Disney fans thanks to Daisy Duck or a throwback to the Dukes of Hazard.
10. Buddy
We call dogs “man’s best friends” because they become our consummate playmates, devoted pals, and faithful companions. Therefore, it makes sense that Buddy, a name that doubles for friend, would be a popular pick for pups.
A few other dog names that tend to stick around consistently are Abby, Buster, Coco, Bruno, and Molly.
10 Popular Names for Cats
These names are longstanding feline favorites that maintain their popularity year after year. If you want to pick a sure-to-please moniker for your fur baby, see if one of these cat names gets a green light.
1. Kitty
Kitty is a simple, straightforward name for a cat, which might be why it’s so popular. It works for boys or girls, keeping it versatile.
2. Loki
If you’re a Marvel fan, then you’re familiar with the likable villain Loki. Why is this name such a popular cat name? Well, Loki is the god of mischief, and as you know, cats love to be mischievous.
3. Felix
Felix may be one of, if not the most, famous cartoon cats. The funny black cat first appeared in 1919 and increased in fame with the TV series Felix the Cat in 1958.
4. Oreo
Oreo continues to be a top pick for black-and-white felines. The reason is obvious, of course. The name is inspired by the famous black-and-white cookies of the same name.
5. Leo
Don’t forget, your cute pet feline has a lot of big cousins, like lions. If your cat has a regal, majestic attitude, naming them Leo is a good fit.
6. Oliver
If you haven’t seen the Disney animated film Oliver & Company, you have to watch it if you’re a cat parent. The cute orange kitty (Oliver) in the movie is full of spunk, bravery, and adorableness.
7. Nala
When The Lion King first made its debut in movie theaters, lots of cat parents started naming their female felines Nala. The name continues to be a popular choice, befitting of pretty, graceful kitties everywhere.
8. Oscar
Oscar is a fan favorite with double inspiration. One is from Stephen King’s Doctor Sleep, which was inspired by a real-life cat named Oscar.
Oscar the Therapy Cat lived in a rehabilitation and nursing facility and seemed to predict when terminally-ill patients were about to die. Oscar would visit them a few hours before their final moments, resting peacefully by their side so they wouldn’t be alone.
9. Tiger
Similar to Leo, Tiger is another famous cat name that pays homage to the big cats in the animal family. It’s a top pick for Bengals and other striped kitties.
10. Binx
Binx jumped to popularity as a cat name in 1993 with the release of Disney’s Halloween favorite, Hocus Pocus. Plus, it’s a precious name, perfect for a smart, curious kitty.
Five Popular Pet Names for Dogs and Cats
Several names appear on lists for what’s trending for dogs and cats. They work equally well for pups and kitties and seem to be common choices among both species.
1. Charlie
Charlie has consistently appeared on top pet names thanks to its good-natured connotations and friendly spirit. It’s also popular because of famous Charlies, like Charlie Chaplin, Charlie Brown, and Charlie’s Angels.
2. Milo
If you’ve ever seen the heartwarming film, The Adventures of Milo and Otis, then you already know why this name makes the list. The name belonged to the cat in the movie. However, it soon became well-liked for dogs, too, especially after the release of Jim Carrey’s The Mask (introducing the cute, frisbee-loving pup).
3. Luna
Luna has been a top pet name for many years. Meaning “moon,” it has a gentle, beautiful appeal. It’s a favorite for female dogs across the US.
4. Lucky
Lucky is a popular pet name for dogs and cats. It’s often bestowed on rescue animals or puppies and kittens that are the runts of the litter (thanks to Disney’s 101 Dalmatians).
5. Bella
Bella, meaning “beautiful,” is a favorite name for girl dogs and cats. If you love treating your pet like a princess, this name is a perfect fit.
Choosing the Right Name for Your Pet
Ultimately, what you choose to name your pet doesn’t really have any limitations or rules. However, even with free reign to select any name you please, it’s likely you gravitate to some of the more mainstream, popular pet names.
When deciding which name is right for your pet, think about your interests. For example, a Disney pet name is just right for diehard fans of the mouse, while horror fans would love one of these spooky pet names. Other things to consider are your pet’s personality and their characteristics (both physical and behavioral).
Some people think about what’s going on in the world when they adopt their pets. It’s up to you. Once you land on the perfect name for your pet, you’ll just know it’s the right one for your fur baby.
Need more inspiration and tips for being an amazing pet parent? Check out the rest of the Neater Pets blog.
