Key Points
- These cute dog names include classic ideas, food-inspired choices, and names from pop culture.
- The perfect name not only reflects your dog’s unique personality but also strengthens your bond.
- For more inspiration, check out our guides to the best male dog names and female dog names.
Those puppy eyes, that fluffy tail, and the way they tilt their head when you talk to them — it’s practically impossible not to fall in love with your new dog.
You’ve already found the perfect pup and made them feel at home. Now comes the hard part: finding a name that’s as adorable as they are. Here at Pumpkin, we’ve seen a lot of cute and creative dog names from our customers over the years. Now, we want to share some of our all-time favorites.
Check out our guide to cute dog name ideas and give your pooch the pet name they deserve.
1. Alfredo
This classic Italian cream sauce would make a deliciously fun name for a white dog. Alfredo is a common boys’ name in Italy, and the dish fettuccini alfredo was named after Alfredo di Lelio, an Italian chef who cooked it for his pregnant wife. The name Alfredo means “wise counselor,” so not only is it fitting for a white dog, but it also works for a wise one, too.
2. Archie
A classic yet unforgettable name, Archie is a name with all-American charm. If you grew up with the Archie comic books (or the more recent CW show of the same name), then you might remember the iconic redhead and his pals Jughead (also a great dog name), Betty, and Veronica. This name is perfect for a spunky and mischievous pup with a dash of red in their fur, like an Irish Terrier. Just be ready to join him on his next adventure!
3. Arlo
Arlo has a cool, vintage vibe, like something straight out of an old detective movie or a classic western paperback. It’s got an air of sophistication and is especially fitting for a pup who’s both brainy and independent — the kind of dog who solves puzzles and then takes themselves out for a walk. Australian Shepherds, Border Collies, and mixed breeds would absolutely fit this name.
4. Bailey
Bailey is an adorable name that can be used for both male and female dogs. The most famous Bailey is Senator Elizabeth Warren’s beloved Golden Retriever, who went viral for snatching up an unattended burrito. This was a rookie mistake on the part of Warren’s staff — everyone knows to keep an eye on their food when there’s a Golden sniffing around.
5. Banjo
If yours is a music-loving household, then Banjo is a great choice. This name makes you want to grab your dog, head to the porch, and start a spontaneous sing-along. It’s perfect for a dog who loves to romp around and have a good time with their humans. And hey, if you’re a banjo player yourself, your pup might even dance along to the beat. For more music-inspired names, you can try Chord, Dolly, or Ringo.
6. Bonnie
Bonnie is a sweet, charming name that never goes out of style. Plus, it has a bit of the “ride-or-die” spirit, thanks to the legendary Bonnie and Clyde. So, if you’re looking for a partner in crime who’s always up for an adventure (or just a cuddle on the couch), consider naming your best girl Bonnie.
7. Bucky
Marvel fans are familiar with Captain America’s BFF, Bucky Barnes, who lost an arm and was given a powerful metal replacement. Bucky would make an especially cute name for a pup with a new lease on life through prosthetics. However, this name would also suit four-legged pups with a spunky spirit.
8. Dug
Who among us sat through the Pixar masterpiece Up without tearing up in the first ten minutes, only to have their hearts stolen by Dug, the lovable golden retriever with a talking collar? This name is made for a dog who’s loyal, playful, and maybe a little clumsy. They’ll greet everyone with a look that says, “I have just met you, and I love you!” And if you thought that famous movie dog’s name was actually Doug, well, that’s a great cute dog name idea, too.
9. Dumpling
Besides being a bite-size bundle of deliciousness, Dumpling is also a cute name for a small dog. The best way to eat a dumpling is in one bite, so this would make a great name for a tiny breed — such as a Papillon, or Pomeranian — who is so adorable you just want to eat them up.
10. Elvis
If your dog has a love for the spotlight, and maybe even a signature howl, Elvis is the name for them. Between stealing the show and demanding peanut butter and banana treats, this is a pup that will keep you entertained. A charismatic Husky with this name is bound to be the king of the dog park.
11. Fidget
Fidget is a great name for a dog who can never sit still. You know the type — always bouncing around and endlessly zooming around the house. This fun and quirky name captures the restless energy and playful spirit of your dog. It’s especially suited for a Jack Rusell Terrier who is always on the go.
12. Gigi
A cute and feisty name of French origin, Gigi makes a great name for a girl dog with some sass. The most well-known Gigi today is supermodel Gigi Hadid, but older dog parents may associate the name with the classic 1958 musical Gigi, based on the novella of the same name by French author Colette.
13. Gumbo
This New Orleans classic is a clever choice for a dog name, especially for a St. Bernard. Fun fact: the mascot of the New Orleans Saints football team is a St. Bernard named Gumbo. This specific name and breed was chosen because St. Bernard Parish borders New Orleans, and gumbo is the state cuisine of Louisiana.
Some of the best cute dog names take inspiration from food, so if Gumbo doesn’t quite hit the spot, try Pancakes, Waffles, Peaches, Peanut, or Fudge.
14. Hattie
Don’t let the cuteness fool you — Hattie means “ruler of the home” in German. While it may sound sweet and delicate, this name is packed with strength and sass. A dog who’s small but mighty, like the Yorkshire Terrier, would rock this name with confidence.
15. Houdini
Does your pup frequently make your socks disappear? If so, Houdini is the perfect name for your little magician. Houdini is a great choice for a clever pup with a mischievous streak — just make sure to keep your pup safely leashed or fenced in so they don’t pull a disappearing act on you.
16. Kenzo
Looking for a cute name that has a deeper meaning? Kenzo is the way to go. “Ken” means healthy, and “zo” means storehouse or treasure in Japanese. This would be an excellent fit for a precious Shiba Inu, also native to Japan. Kenzo is also a famous fashion brand known for its bold style and vibrant colors, making it a suitable name for particularly stylish pooches.
17. Lulu
Lulu is an adorable name for a girl dog, especially a breed with some French flair like a Poodle or Papillon. If your little girl has that certain je ne sais quoi, consider Lulu. Just imagine her strolling down the Champs-Élysées and turning heads.
18. Millie
Millie is like a warm hug on a chilly day — comforting and full of love. It’s a great choice for a dog that’s as sweet as pie and twice as charming. However, this name also means “hardworking.” So, whether your Millie is a tiny Chihuahua guarding the house or a German Shepherd on the job, this name honors their work ethic.
19. Mojito
Who doesn’t love sipping a freshly muddled mojito by the beach? So, if your dog has a chill, laid-back personality, this name may be a good fit. This traditional Cuban highball cocktail would also make a great name for a Havanese, which is the national dog of Cuba.
20. Mushu
When looking for cute dog names, Disney movies are a great source of inspiration. (See also: Mickey, Minnie, Elsa, Prince Charming, or Ariel.) This name isn’t just for tiny, fire-breathing dragons anymore. If you’re a fan of Disney’s Mulan, you’ll instantly recognize her spirited sidekick, Mushu. With his sassy personality and loyal heart, he proved that even the littlest of creatures can be mighty. It’s a good pick for a feisty yet loyal companion like a Shih Tzu.
21. Nugget
If you’ve got a pint-sized pup, Nugget is one of the cutest dog names, fit for either a girl or boy dog. A tiny snack that packs a lot of flavor, Nugget is a great name for a little dog with a big heart. It would also make a great name for a Golden Retriever (or any yellow-coated dog) that’s your priceless golden nugget.
22. Pepper
Almost every recipe in existence calls for a little black pepper, and the name Pepper is a great choice for a black dog — especially a smaller one. A dash of pepper makes everything taste better, just like some doggy time makes our lives better. Pepper is also a fun name for Marvel fans who enjoy the character of Pepper Potts.
23. Pumpkin
We may be biased, but Pumpkin is one of our favorite dog names. It’s an adorable unisex name, whether your dog is a little round fluffball like a Pomeranian or a bigger, thicker breed like a Bulldog. Pumpkin is also a great choice for a dog of any size or color (although a dog with an orange coat would make it extra cute).
24. Scout
For those of you literary enthusiasts, Scout will definitely ring a bell. Like Scout Finch from To Kill a Mockingbird, a dog with this name is curious, courageous, and has a big heart. Boo Radley would be another great choice for a dog who might seem intimidating at first, like a Pitbull or Doberman, but has a heart of gold.
25. Slinky
If you’re a hardcore Toy Story fan, don’t let the name Slinky slip through the cracks. The lovable Dachshund in the Pixar classic is a loyal pal who never backs down from a play session (even if it means getting tangled up along the way). Dogs who are always up for a game of fetch or love to stretch out on the couch are a perfect match for this cute name.
26. Snickerdoodle
Besides being one of the most delicious cookies on the planet, Snickerdoodle would make a great name for a pup sweet enough to give you a toothache. It would be an extra cute name for a pup in the “Doodle” family — Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, Aussiedoodles, Bernedoodles, and all the rest.
27. Taco
Can you tell we like food-inspired names for dogs? Well, Tacos are definitely not just for Tuesdays. This name is for the pup that’s always looking forward to their next floor snack. They gobble up treats like you would demolish a midnight taco. Or they might just have a little kick to their personality, like a Schipperke, or any feisty breed. Just make sure to keep the onions and garlic away from this particular Taco.
28. Turbo
Got a speed demon on your hands? Turbo would make a great name for an athletic, energetic pup like a Greyhound, Border Collie, or Whippet who loves nothing more than chasing down a ball in the park and doing zoomies in the house. And if Turbo isn’t quite right, consider Flash or Barry (Barry Allen was the Flash’s secret identity).
29. Ziti
Pasta lovers may consider Ziti a cute choice for their pups. This name would fit a boy or a girl (after all, the love of ziti knows no gender) and would make an especially fun choice for an Italian Greyhound or a Spinone.
30. Ziggy
Like a reggae song playing at a Sunday barbeque, Ziggy is a name for a dog who knows how to chill and have a good time. Channeling the king of positive vibes, Ziggy Marley, this pup is laidback and loves to go with the flow, but also has a playful spirit and zest for life.
How to pick the best name for your dog
When choosing a name for your new family member, go with your gut and pick a name that feels right. Dogs hear names with clear, short sounds best, so hard consonants like “k,” “t,” and “p” are easier for dogs to hear and respond to. Also, stick to just one or two syllables. And if you’ve chosen a longer name, find a suitable nickname — so your Sebastian can become “Stan.”
Once you’ve picked the perfect name, start calling your dog so they learn to recognize and respond to their name.
Picking a name is just the first step on a long, rewarding journey with your new pup. If you want to be ready to meet the unexpected with your pup, learn more about how Pumpkin Dog Insurance plans help protect your new best friend.
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