For pet owners across the country, selecting the ideal name for our dogs can be a difficult decision.
Reflecting a combination of personality, uniqueness and personal touch, the process can be both stimulating and challenging.
Despite this, some names turn out to be more common than others, according to Petsure, whose research has uncovered the most popular dog names of 2024.
A study by pet insurance experts looked at eight dog breeds across the UK and their assigned names, including: Cockapoos, Jack Russells, Cocker Spaniels, Staffies, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers.
Emerging as the reigning monarch of dog names, Luna is the most popular specifically among Cocker Spaniels, German Shepherds, and Staffies.
A study by pet insurance experts looked at eight breeds of dogs across the UK and their assigned names, including: Cockapoos, Jack Russells, Cocker Spaniels, Staffies, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers (file image)
The second most popular dog name in 2024 is Bella, followed by Milo and Willow, which may be inspired by Taylor Swift’s hit single of the same name.
For the cockapoos, Teddy is crowned the best choice, probably due to his bear-like appearance, followed by Bella and Luna.
Among Jack Russells, pet owners like the name Bella, along with flower-based names like Rosie and Daisy.
Meanwhile, ethereal-sounding names like Luna and Willow made the top ten for cocker spaniels.
Known for their unwavering loyalty and cheerful demeanor, Labradors are commonly given the name Buddy.
German Shepherds, renowned for their strong, agile build and high intelligence, are commonly assigned mythological names such as Loki and Zeus.
Parents of Golden Retrievers also prefer to choose nature-inspired names for their dogs, with Luna, Daisy, Willow and Poppy being popular choices.
Parents of Golden Retrievers also prefer to choose nature-inspired names for their dogs, with Luna, Daisy, Willow and Poppy being popular choices (stock image).
Lastly, for Staffordshire terriers, it’s a fun choice and a mix of the top ten names, from the modern-sounding Blue to more classic options like Reggie.
Allie, chief content officer at Petsure, has also offered some advice for new pet parents on how to name their new four-legged friends.
She said: “Giving your pet a short name with no more than two syllables could help with remembering.” A simple and concise name can also avoid any confusion with other words and phrases.
‘Your pet is an individual, so taking the time to get to know his personality can help you choose his name. Or perhaps you want to choose a name based on a unique physical characteristic, such as unusual markings on the coat.
Allie recommended trying naming, adding, “Once you think you’ve settled on a name, give yourself time to try it out.” Call your pet by that name for a few days and see how she feels.
‘Pay attention to how it sounds when you say it out loud and how your pet responds. This test can help you check whether the chosen name seems right to both you and your pet.’
In 2023, Charles, Barbie and Taylor were among the most popular dog names, according to a report by dog walking company Rover.