Picking the right name for your pup is no small task—it’s a word you’ll be repeating countless times each day, from cheerful greetings on morning walks to affectionate calls before bedtime.

According to the 2025 American Pet Products Association’s National Pet Owners Survey, nearly 68 million U.S. households share their home with a dog—and every one of those furry friends needs a name.

Dog names aren’t just about convenience; they’re about personality, love, and the joy our four-legged friends bring into our lives.

Maybe your pup is a “Bella” or “Max,” or maybe you’ve gone creative with a unique name that makes people smile at the dog park. Either way, there’s something fascinating about seeing which names rise to the top across the country. Are Americans leaning more toward human-like names for dogs, or are quirky and playful choices taking over?

We’ll reveal the most popular dog names in the US, why they resonate with owners, and how these choices reflect trends in pet parenting. Whether you’re looking for name inspiration or just curious about what’s hot in the dog world, you’ll enjoy this peek into the nation’s favorite names for man’s best friend.

Most-Popular Dog Names in the US Revealed

1. Max

Max takes the top spot, and for good reason. It’s short, strong, and easy to shout when your energetic pooch bolts after a squirrel.

The name Max may have gained popularity thanks to Disney, first appearing as Prince Eric’s dog in the 1989 film The Little Mermaid and later as Max Goof, the son of Goofy, who debuted under that name in 1992. More recently, Max has been featured as the main dog character in The Secret Life of Pets and its sequel.

Who Wears It Best: Max dogs are often playful, loyal, and full of personality. They’re the classic “best friend” type—reliable, adventurous, and always ready for a walk or a game of fetch.

Fun Fact: Max is timeless. It works equally well for tiny terriers or massive Great Danes, proving that good things really do come in all sizes.

2. Bella

Bella is elegance in a name. It’s warm, friendly, and instantly makes your dog sound like royalty—or at least a very important guest at the park.

Rob Lowe has a dog named Bella, an Italian Greyhound/Chihuahua mix. He has shared moments with Bella on social media, highlighting his love for his pets.

Who Wears It Best: Bella dogs are affectionate and love attention. They’re often gentle, sweet, and happy to snuggle… as long as no one steals their favorite toy.

Fun Fact: Bella remains a favorite thanks to its simplicity and beauty, making it a go-to choice for dog lovers looking for a name that feels classic yet modern.

3. Sadie

Sadie is full of spunk and personality. The name itself hints at a dog who is playful, clever, and sometimes a little sassy.

Who Wears It Best: Sadie dogs are often lively, smart, and social. They love making friends—both human and canine—and thrive in active households.

Fun Fact: Sadie has maintained popularity for decades, perhaps because it strikes a perfect balance between approachable and charming.

4. Maggie

Maggie evokes warmth, loyalty, and an undeniable charm. It’s a name that feels like home.

Who Wears It Best: Maggie dogs are often friendly, easygoing, and adaptable. They get along with everyone—kids, other pets, and the neighbor who always brings treats.

Fun Fact: Maggie is a versatile name, fitting everything from a spirited Beagle to a calm Labrador. Its enduring appeal lies in its down-to-earth charm.

5. Lucy

Lucy is cheerful, approachable, and full of personality—a name that instantly makes you smile.

Who Wears It Best: Lucy dogs are playful, affectionate, and often a little mischievous. They bring energy to the household and love being the center of attention.

Fun Fact: Lucy’s popularity is boosted by pop culture references, but it also remains a beloved choice because it’s easy to say, friendly, and timeless.

6. Daisy

Daisy is bright, cheerful, and just a little bit sassy. Perfect for dogs who bring happiness wherever they go.

Daisy may be best known as the puppy who, despite a brief appearance, sets the events of the 2014 film John Wick into motion. However, the name’s enduring popularity stretches back decades, tracing to the beloved dog in the Blondie film series from the late 1930s to the early 1940s.

Who Wears It Best: Daisy dogs are lively, friendly, and endlessly affectionate. They often have a playful streak and enjoy long walks, games of fetch, and plenty of cuddles.

Fun Fact: This floral-inspired name suggests freshness, energy, and a sunny personality—traits many dog owners want to highlight.

7. Luna

Luna isn’t just a popular cat name—it’s also climbing the charts for dogs. It’s celestial, mysterious, and elegant.

Who Wears It Best: Luna dogs often have a graceful, calm presence but can switch to playful antics in a heartbeat. They’re curious, intelligent, and sometimes a little dramatic (in the best way).

Fun Fact: Luna appeals to dog parents who love a name with a hint of magic, sophistication, and universal charm.

More Than a Name: How It Helps Your Dog Learn and Bond

Giving your dog a name isn’t just a fun formality—it’s a powerful tool for communication, training, and building a stronger bond. Dogs can learn to recognize their name, respond to commands more effectively, and even feel more secure knowing they have a distinct identity.

• Dogs can recognize a consistent name and distinguish it from other sounds in the environment. This makes commands, calls, and corrections more effective, especially in busy households or outdoor spaces.

• When a dog hears its name followed by praise, treats, or play, it learns to associate its name with good things. This positive reinforcement encourages obedience and makes training more enjoyable for both dog and owner.

• A dog that reliably responds to its name is easier to call back in potentially dangerous situations—like near traffic or unfenced areas. A strong recall can literally save their life.

• Using your dog’s name during cuddles, walks, or playtime reinforces your bond. It’s a way of saying, “I see you, I know you, and I care about you.” Dogs pick up on tone and attention, making them feel loved and secure.

• Calling a dog for meals, walks, or bedtime is simpler when they know their name. It also prevents accidental confusion when multiple pets are in the household.

Conclusion

For pet parents looking for the perfect moniker, the most popular names for dogs in the U.S. reveal plenty of inspiration. The data shows top names like Charlie, Buddy, Luna, Bailey, Daisy, Toby, Milo, Rosie, Tucker, Cooper, Finn, Willow, Honey, Ruby, Ace, and Teddy consistently rank high, with some female dog names taking fifth place or higher.

Whether it’s your first time picking a name or you’re adding a new dog to the family, this list provides examples that are unique, fun, and even influenced by popular culture, food, or your pet’s personality. From Mexico to New York, fans of all breeds rely on these representative names to cover their pet names, offering a reflection of their dog’s spirit.

Whether you’re choosing a moniker for rest, play, or companionship, names like Luna or Charlie can announce your dog’s personality while giving owners a surprise of joy every day.