Dog Names of 2025: Popular Picks Reflecting Trends and Culture

The names dog owners choose for their pets reveal cultural trends and personal tastes, much like baby names. According to a report from the online pet supply retailer Chewy, certain dog names have surged in popularity in 2025, reflecting influences from pop culture and culinary trends.

The data compiled by Chewy comes from user profiles, which include the dog’s name, birthdate, and breed. This aggregated information allows Chewy to identify trending names, as explained by pet expert Ciara Lavelle. “By looking at this aggregated information, we can see which dog names are trending and celebrate the most popular picks of the year,” Lavelle stated.

Top Dog Names of 2025

This year, the most popular dog names include:

– Bella
– Luna
– Daisy
– Lucy
– Max
– Charlie
– Bailey
– Cooper
– Buddy
– Sadie

Beyond these top picks, unique names such as Cheeto, Brisket, and Elphaba are also gaining traction among pet owners. The rise in food-inspired names is notable; for instance, both Cheeto and Pickles have seen a 25% increase in popularity since 2024, while Brisket has jumped by an impressive 68%, according to Lavelle.

The influence of the entertainment industry is evident as well. The recent popularity of the film Wicked has led to a significant spike in dog names. The name Elphaba, associated with the Wicked Witch of the West, has surged by 200% since last year, and its nickname, Elphie, is also on the rise. Additionally, Glinda, the name of the Good Witch, has seen a 175% increase in popularity.

Pop Culture Influence on Pet Naming

Pet names often reflect broader cultural phenomena. Following the passing of rock legend Ozzy Osbourne earlier this year, there has been a 15% increase in dogs named Ozzy. Similarly, the viral meme “Piper, no!” from The White Lotus has likely contributed to a 33% rise in the name Piper among dogs, though as Lavelle notes, this connection remains anecdotal.

When it comes to selecting a name for a new pet, many owners consider factors beyond mere trends. Lavelle advises potential pet parents to draw inspiration from their dog’s personality, appearance, or even their favorite movies and musicians. “You can take inspiration from just about anything as you’re naming your dog,” she said.

For those seeking additional ideas, the American Kennel Club offers a variety of name suggestions that include unique, trending, and classic options such as Storm, JoJo, Scout, Zeke, Kona, and Jax.

Ultimately, naming a dog involves personal preference, and Lavelle emphasizes the importance of choosing a name that feels right. “You’re going to be yelling it at the dog park and responding to it at the vet’s office, so if you decide on something silly, be prepared to own it,” she cautioned.

As long as the name is respectful and inoffensive, any choice can be a good one. “No matter what you choose, your dog will love it,” Lavelle concluded, “because it’s how they’ll be called by their favorite person.”