No, William Shakespeare wasn’t talking about dog names when he penned the lines: “What’s in a name? that which we call a rose/By any other name would smell as sweet” but your pet is part of the family! So your dog’s name deserves more thought than Fido!
If you’re at a loss as to what to call your pup, check out these top 51 unique dog names for 2015 — much more than mere monikers:
Names for Male Pups
- Noah
It took top seat as the number one baby boy human name in 2014, according to the Social Security Administration, so why not use it for your fur baby, too?
- Maximus
Up the ante on the traditional Max.
- Orion
This name means a hunter — just like your dog.
- Hund
This one is Danish for “dog.”
- Channing
Tatum fans, anyone?
- Sambuca
Call him after a favorite drink — much more unique than “beer.”
- Bonaparte
Perfect for the mini-mutt with a Napoleon complex (and it tickles your “punny” dog bone!).
- Mars
This is a spacey name that’s not as well-used as Pluto.
- Loki
Loki is the trickster Norse god, as well as a Marvel villain.
- Sobaka
This one is Russian for “dog.”
- Chewbaccca
Sounds like the Russian word, but it’s a Star Wars fuzzy favorite.
- Barack
Yes, it’s an alternative to the obvious Obama.
- Cerberus
The Greek multi-headed dog isn’t as familiar as the notable Zeus.
- Spielberg
He’s a pretty unique guy, right?
- Kubrick
Even more of a unique guy?
- Odif
That’s Fido spelled backwards.
- Oliver
It’s old-school and totally vintage.
- Bear
Of course, but he’s still a dog!
- Barktholomew
That’s Bartholomew with a “Bark.”
- Tech
Why call your dog this? Because you love your laptop, iPad and iPhone that much!
- Midas
We’re talking about the king with the golden touch!
Names for Female Pups
- Emma
This one was the No. 1 baby girl human name, so why not for your dog?
- Asteria
Asteria is an Amazon, so it’s an ideal name for a big breed.
- Artemis
She is the goddess of wilderness and animals.
- Lilou
A French name (maybe for a French bulldog) that steps up the more common Lulu or Lola.
- Chanel
Again, a French name that’s not the norm — a perfect pick for couture connoisseur.
- Kitty
This one’s a bit ironic!
- Kokai
This is a rare flower and an even rarer name.
- Lyssa
Technically, Lyssa is the goddess of rage in animals. But it’s a more interesting alternative to Lisa or Melissa for your dog.
- Brooklyn
Popular with human parents, this one is new to the dog scene.
- Fawn
Oh deer! This one’s sweet!
- Trixie
Sweet and sassy Trixie is cute for your little trickster puppy.
- Myrina
Here’s another Amazon (this one a queen). It’s a unique name, also great for a large breed.
- Nala
“Lion King” lovers rejoice! This feline’s name is unexpected for a dog.
- Hazel
This is a great vintage name that’s not the norm for modern pups.
- Isa
Bella is the ultra-popular (and totally overused) short form of Isabella. Try the opposite end of the name.
- Freyja
She is the Norse goddess of love.
- Monet
This one’s ideal for art enthusiasts.
- Sky
This one is great for a dog that loves the great outdoors.
- Carya
This one is a not-so-well-known female from Greek mythology.
- Birdy
Here’s a sing-song name for a doggie.
Names for Either Sex
- Nine
Canine — get it?!
- Charlie
This one can be a boy’s name or a girl’s — why not?
- Harley
This name — like the motorcycle — makes a cool name for your hip doggie.
- Add “Jr.” to Your Name!
Shorten your name to its first initial and add “J” for “junior.” So if your name is Carly,
your dog’s name is Carly Jr. or C.J.
- Blue
“Blue’s Clues” fans may appreciate this one.
- Avery
This all-around interesting name is the name of an elf ruler.
- Cam
This one is also short for the girl name Cammie.
- Taylor
This one is for Swift or Lautner, depending on your pup.
- Muse
Muse can be an inspiring name for creative dog lovers.
- Harpo
This one is for the Marx brother. It’s also a dual-gender name.
Do you have kitties, too? Check out the 51 Cutest Cat Names!
Erica Loop is the mom to one teenager, two energetic Olde Boston Bulldogs and one very shy cat. She’s also a freelance writer, educator and the creator of the blog Mini Monets and Mommies.