Naming your four-legged friend is no simple task—you want the name to be meaningful, memorable, and easy for your pooch to learn. A classic dog name is a safe bet if you’re looking for a name that will stand the test of time and work for any type of dog, large or small.

Top Classic Dog Names

  • Buddy
  • Lady
  • Lassie
  • Pepper
  • Spot
  • Bingo
  • Chance
  • Shadow
  • Brownie
  • Cookie
  • Teddy
  • Daisy
  • Scooter
  • Sparky
  • Cocoa

Tips for Naming Your Dog

Depending on the dog breed and size, you can have your pet for upwards of 15 years or more, so funny, trending names now might not have staying power in a dozen years. Classic, time-tested names that make popular dog name lists every year are a good bet. Do not get too complicated with the name. A two-syllable name is best as a dog can differentiate its name in conversation. Also, steer clear of names that sound too close to commands. It can confuse the dog, making it hard for the dog to learn its name or the desired action.

Fun Fact

Dogs have excellent hearing; they can hear four times better than humans. In fact, according to music legend Paul McCartney, the Beatles added a frequency only dogs can hear to the end of the song “A Day in the Life.” So watch your dog when you play the song, if it tilts its head or perks up, they likely heard it.

Girl Dog Names

Take a look at this list of feminine names that are all two syllables. These are all suitable choices for a female dog’s name.

  • AmberAngelBellaBrandyGingerGracieHollyHoneyLolaLunaPennyRubySadieStellaZoe

Boy Dog Names

This list of masculine dog names has a few one-syllable names on it, but for the most part, easy-to-hear and comprehend double-syllable names round out this list.

  • BlazeChaseCodyCooperHarleyHarveyHunterLeoLuckyMarleyMaxMiloRustyScoutWhiskey

Regal Dog Names

Some dog owners prefer to give their dogs the royal treatment and reflect it in their choice of a name for their furry companion.

  • AlbertAugustus (Gus)CaesarCleoDuke (Duchess)ElsaKingMonarchPrince (Princess)QueenieRexSir Barks a LotSultan (Sultana)TheodoraTiana

Funny Dog Names

Humorous dog names tend to follow trends, but they might be just right to consider if your dog turns out to have a goofy personality.

  • BaconBark TwainBarkleyBullwinkleChewbacca (Chewie)ElmoFurdinandJimmy ChewKanye WestieLittle Bow WowMcGruffNotorious D.O.G.Snoop Doggie DogSubwooferTaco

A to Z Assorted Dog Names

A–B

  • AlbertAmberAngelAugustus (Gus)BaconBark TwainBarkleyBellaBingoBlazeBrandyBrownieBuddyBullwinkle

C–E

  • CaesarChanceChaseChewbacca (Chewie)CleoCocoaCodyCookieCooperDaisyDukeElmoElsa

F–K

  • FurdinandGingerGracieHarleyHarveyHollyHoneyHunterJimmy ChewKanye WestieKing

L–M

  • LadyLassieLeoLittle Bow WowLolaLuckyLunaMarleyMaxMcGruffMiloMonarch

N–R

  • Notorious D.O.G.PennyPepperPrince (Princess)QueenieRexRubyRusty

S–Z

  • SadieScooterScoutShadowSir Barks A LotSnoop Doggie DogSparkySpotStellaSubwooferSultan (Sultana)TacoTeddyTheodoraTianaWhiskeyZoe

Other Dog Names

For more dog name ideas, check out:

  • Best Names for Fluffy Dogs
  • Celebrity Dog Names
  • Flower-Inspired Dog Names