In 2024, the bond between humans and their furry companions grew, and naming trends reflected evolving cultural influences, personal tastes, and even pop culture phenomena. Pet parents increasingly choose names that resonate with their personalities, hobbies, or favourite media references, making each dog’s name a story. Here’s a look at the top-trending dog names of the year and the inspirations behind them.
Trending Male Dog Names
Loki
Inspired by mythology and pop culture, Loki’s rise reflects the allure of mischief and charm.
Milo
A classic yet modern choice, Milo evokes friendliness and warmth.
Leo
Short, strong, and regal, Leo remains a popular pick for its timeless appeal.
Max
A perennial favourite, Max is versatile, simple, and beloved across generations.
Arlo
This trendy name has surged thanks to its vintage yet modern vibe.
Trending Female Dog Names
Luna
Dominating charts for years, Luna captures the magic of celestial beauty.
Daisy
Charming, Daisy is perfect for dogs with sunny dispositions.
Zoe
Short and spirited, Zoe embodies vitality and zest.
Bella
Meaning “beautiful,” Bella continues to captivate dog lovers worldwide.
Willow
Evoking nature and tranquillity, Willow suits gentle and graceful pets.
Unisex Dog Names on the Rise
Charlie
As a gender-neutral favourite, Charlie brings playful and classic energy.
River
Ideal for nature-loving owners, River flows seamlessly into the trend of earthy names.
Scout
Perfect for adventurous pups, Scout is a nod to curiosity and exploration.
Sky
Light and airy, Sky is an ode to freedom and infinite possibilities.
Clover
Symbolizing luck and greenery, Clover is a quirky and joyful choice.
Pop Culture’s Influence
In 2024, movies, TV shows, and viral trends heavily influenced dog names. Names like Wednesday (inspired by the hit Netflix series Wednesday) and Kenji (drawing from anime culture) saw significant spikes. Similarly, Grogu, affectionately known as Baby Yoda from The Mandalorian, entered pet homes.
Unique Trends to Watch
Food-Inspired Names
From Mochi to Olive, culinary names are stealing hearts.
Travel-Inspired Names
Think Paris, Rio, or Aspen—perfect for wanderlust-filled pet parents.
Vintage Revival
Old-fashioned names like Walter, Mabel, and Edith are making a comeback.
Short and Sweet
Names like Pip, Dot, and Rex are gaining favour for their simplicity and charm.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Name
Reflect on personality and observe your dog’s traits and quirks to find a fitting name.
Keep it simple and choose one- or two-syllable names for easier recall and training.
Avoid confusion with names that sound similar to commands like “sit” or “stay.”
Whether inspired by pop culture, nature, or a beloved family tradition, the names chosen for dogs in 2024 underscore the deep connection between people and their pets. Each name tells a story, adding a touch of individuality to our canine companions while celebrating the joy they bring to our lives.
Which of these trending names will you choose for your next furry friend? Let us know—because every name has a tale worth telling!
Jennifer M Williams | Editor-in-Chief
