pets
Clawmate
Get Started
Dog Name Ideas

Dog Names 2025

Choosing the perfect name for your new puppy is a big decision — you'll be saying it thousands of times! The best dog names are short (1-2 syllables), easy to say, and distinct from common commands. But most importantly, pick a name that feels right for your dog's personality and makes you smile every time you say it.

👑
Max
Most popular male name
👸
Bella
Most popular female name
📢
1-2
Ideal syllables for recall
⏰
7+ yrs
How long you'll use this name

Browse Dog Names by Category

Click a category to explore all names in that style.

Best Male Dog Names

Strong, classic, and popular names for your good boy.

BearBentleyBuddy+ more

Tough Male Dog Names

Powerful names for strong guard dogs and protectors.

BlitzBrutusDiesel+ more

Best Female Dog Names

Beautiful and sweet names for your good girl.

BaileyBellaChloe+ more

Cute Female Dog Names

Adorable names for your little princess.

AngelBambiBean+ more

Food-Inspired Dog Names

Delicious names for your new puppy.

BagelBasilBiscuit+ more

💡 Tips for Choosing the Perfect Name

Keep It Short

One or two syllables work best. Dogs respond better to short, punchy names. "Max" works better than "Maximillian" for training.

Avoid Command Confusion

Don't pick names that sound like common commands. "Kit" sounds like "sit," "Joe" sounds like "no," and "Mae" sounds like "stay."

Test the Yell Factor

Go outside and yell the name you're considering. Does it feel natural? Could you shout it at the dog park without embarrassment?

Wait and See

If you can, spend a few days with your new dog before deciding. Their personality might suggest the perfect name.

🔥 Dog Name Trends for 2025

Human Names

Examples: Charlie, Lucy, Cooper, Daisy

Human names for dogs continue to dominate the charts.

Pop Culture

Examples: Loki, Khaleesi, Yoda, Groot

TV, movies, and comics inspire endless options.

Food Names

Examples: Taco, Biscuit, Mochi, Ginger

Especially popular for smaller, cute dogs.

Nature Names

Examples: Willow, Bear, River, Storm

Great for outdoorsy, adventurous dogs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take for a dog to learn their name?▼
Most dogs learn their name within 1-2 weeks with consistent use. Say their name, and when they look at you, reward them with a treat. Practice this multiple times a day. Avoid using their name in negative contexts ("Max, NO!"), as this creates negative associations.
Can I rename an adult dog or rescue?▼
Absolutely! Dogs can learn new names at any age. If the name is similar (Max to Rex), they'll catch on quickly. For completely different names, just start using the new name consistently with treats. Most dogs adapt within a few weeks.
Should two dogs in the same house have similar names?▼
No — pick names that sound different. "Molly" and "Polly" will confuse both dogs and you. Names with different starting sounds and syllable patterns work best. "Max" and "Bella" are easy to distinguish; "Jake" and "Blake" are not.
What names do trainers recommend avoiding?▼
Avoid names that sound like commands (Kit/sit, Joe/no, Mae/stay, Shay/stay). Also avoid very long names or names that are hard to say quickly. Names starting with hard consonants (K, D, T) are often easier for dogs to hear.

Can't Decide on a Name?

Tell our AI about your dog's personality, appearance, or breed, and get personalized name suggestions!

Get AI Name Suggestions →Browse Dog Breeds