When it comes to naming our canine companions, American dog owners seem to have a penchant for certain names that resonate with charm, character, and a touch of pop culture. The latest data, according to U.S. News & World Report’s 360 Reviews, shines a spotlight on the country’s most popular dog names, drawing from a rich tapestry of modern narratives and timeless mythology.
Bella takes the proverbial crown as the nation’s favorite dog name, followed closely by Luna, which secures the second spot. Scott Nyerges, the senior editor of 360 Reviews, noted in a news release on November 6 that classic dog names like Fido, Spot, and Rover are noticeably absent from the top 100 list. Instead, Nyerges points out, names drawn from recent literature and enduring myths have captured the imagination of American dog owners in 2023.
Completing the top five most common dog names are Max at No. 3, Daisy at No. 4, and Charlie at No. 5. To compile this compelling list of canine monikers, U.S. News partnered with Compare Pet Insurance Services, Inc., utilizing their online comparison tool to analyze names from over 800,000 pets. The study identified the most prevalent dog names state by state, as well as national favorites.
It’s worth exploring the cultural references behind these top names. Bella is famously associated with the protagonist of the “Twilight” book and movie series, and Luna is not only the name of a beloved character in the “Harry Potter” saga but also harks back to Roman mythology as the embodiment of the moon. Such literary and mythological influences highlight how popular culture and ancient stories can shape how we name our pets.
Approximately 5% of dogs in the U.S. are named Bella, a name that dominates the charts in 37 states. Luna reigns supreme in eight states. However, some states differ, with names like Copper leading the way in Alaska and Boo capturing hearts in Hawaii. Elsewhere, Lucy and Charlie are the top favorites in Iowa, Nebraska, and North Dakota respectively.
These trends largely echo findings from a previous report by online pet-care resource Rover.com, which highlighted Luna, Max, Bella, and Charlie as top dog names last year. Rounding out the latest top 10 list are Coco at No. 6, Buddy at No. 7, Lucy at No. 8, Milo at No. 9, and Bailey closing the list at No. 10.
As we continue to name our furry friends, it’s clear that our choices are inspired by a variety of influences, from fictional heroes to celestial deities. The affection we have for our pets is often reflected in the names we grant them—names that carry a story, a personality, or a memory that is endearingly unique to each pet owner.
Whether these trends remain constant or shift with the winds of pop culture, one thing is for certain: the names we give our canine companions speak volumes about the time we live in and the narratives that we, as a society, find compelling.
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