Dogs are loyal companions, fierce protectors, and the best snuggle buddies. But finding the perfect moniker for your new best friend can be tough. With thousands of male dog names to choose from, how do you narrow it down?
Don’t worry; we’ve done the heavy lifting for you. We curated a list of over 400 boy names for dogs, ranging from classic and handsome to cool and unique. Whether you have a tough guard dog or a goofy ball of fluff, you’ll find the perfect fit here.
133 Handsome Male Dog Names
These dashing male dog names are timeless and charming.
- Ace: A Latin name meaning “unity.” It also refers to a top-tier pilot or a winning card hand.
- Albert: Meaning “noble” and “bright” in German, this is a sophisticated pick for a smart pup.
- Archie: Short for Archibald. It gained modern popularity thanks to Prince Archie of Sussex.
- Arlo: An Old English name meaning “fortified hill,” perfect for a strong protector.
- Artie: A cute nickname for Arthur, meaning “bear” in Celtic. Great for a fuzzy chow-chow or Pomeranian.
- Asher: A Hebrew name meaning “happy.” It fits a dog with a wagging tail and sunny disposition.
- Banks: A trendy British surname for families originally living near riverbanks.
- Barry: The Anglicized version of Baire, meaning “fair-haired” in Irish.
- Beethoven: A nod to the legendary composer or the slobbery St. Bernard from the movie franchise.
- Bolt: Inspired by Disney’s white shepherd, this suits a dog with lightning speed.
- Bruno: A German name meaning “brown.” It gained fame via singer Bruno Mars and the movie Encanto.
- Buster: A retro British name meaning “tough guy.” It works well for boxers and bulldogs.
- Carter: An Irish and Scottish surname originally for someone who transported goods by cart.
- Carver: An English occupational name for a wood carver.
- Casanova: Named after the famous Italian adventurer, this suits a pup who loves the ladies.
- Cedar: A nature-inspired name symbolizing deep roots and resilience.
- Chance: An English name meaning “good luck.” A great pick for a rescue dog who got a second chance.
- Charlie: A friendly classic meaning “free man.” It is consistently one of the most popular dog names.
- Chase: Meaning “to hunt” in French. Famous as the police dog leader in Paw Patrol.
- Cherry: A sweet food name that also nods to the beautiful cherry blossom tree.
- Chester: A vintage vibe of Latin origin, derived from “castrum” meaning “fort.”
- Clifford: A British surname, but everyone knows it as the Big Red Dog.
- Cooper: An English occupational name for a barrel maker. It is a top choice for Goldens and Labs.
- Crest: A simplified spelling of Creste, referring to someone living at a hilltop.
- Darth: A powerful pick for Star Wars fans, meaning “dark.”
- Davey: A nickname for David, a Hebrew name meaning “beloved.”
- Denzel: An English name meaning “from the high stronghold.”
- Dug: The lovable, easily distracted dog from Disney’s Up.
- Duke: A Latin title meaning “leader.” Perfect for the dog who runs the house.
- Earl: An English aristocratic title meaning “nobleman” or “warrior.”
- Eddie: Short for Edward, meaning “wealthy protector.”
- Edison: A British surname meaning “son of Edward,” often associated with inventor Thomas Edison.
- Einstein: A German name meaning “stone worker,” synonymous with genius.
- Eliot: A Hebrew name meaning “the Lord is my God.”
- Ember: Meaning “spark,” this is a fiery name for a red or orange-coated dog.
- Evan: A Welsh variation of John, meaning “the Lord is gracious.”
- Ezra: A biblical Hebrew name meaning “helper.”
- Finley: An Irish and Scottish name meaning “fair-haired hero.”
- Finn: An Irish classic meaning “fair.” It is also a hero in Celtic mythology.
- Ford: A strong British name meaning “river crossing,” also associated with trucks.
- Forest: A French nature name for a dog who loves the woods.
- Frank: Short for Franklin, meaning “free man.” A solid choice for pugs and Frenchies.
- Fred: A friendly nickname for Alfred or Frederick, meaning “peaceful ruler.”
- Garrett: The Irish version of Gerard, meaning “spear strength.”
- Gary: A Germanic name meaning “spear.”
- Gil: Short for Giles, meaning “bright promise.”
- Goliath: A Hebrew name meaning “exile,” famous for the biblical giant. Ironically cute for small dogs.
- Grant: Derived from the French “grand,” meaning tall or large.
- Grayson: A distinguished British name meaning “son of the bailiff.”
- Gregory: Meaning “watchful” in Greek. Good for a guard dog.
- Gunner: A German name meaning “battle warrior.”
- Gus: Short for Augustus, meaning “majestic.” It sounds friendly and approachable.
- Henry: A royal name of German origin meaning “home ruler.”
- Herbert: A German name meaning “bright army,” often shortened to Herbie or Bert.
- Hickory: A sturdy tree name with Southern charm.
- Hooch: The large, chaotic Dogue de Bordeaux from the movie Turner & Hooch.
- Hunter: An English name meaning “one who hunts.” Ideally suited for hounds and retrievers.
- Ian: The Scottish version of John, meaning “God is gracious.”
- Ike: A snappy nickname for Isaac, meaning “laughter.”
- Iman: An Arabic name meaning “faith.”
- Indie: Short for Indiana or Independent. Great for an adventurous pup.
- Ink: A short, punchy name for a solid black dog.
- Isaac: A Hebrew name meaning “he will laugh.”
- Ivan: The Russian variation of John.
- Jack: A robust, classic name. Famous dogs include the Jack Russell Terrier breed.
- Jones: A Welsh surname meaning “son of John.”
- Juniper: A fresh nature name referring to the evergreen shrub.
- Kennedy: An Irish name meaning “helmeted chief.”
- Kevin: An Irish name meaning “handsome birth.” A funny, human name for a pet.
- Kirby: An English name meaning “church settlement,” or the pink Nintendo character.
- Lane: An English name for someone living near a path or roadway.
- Larry: Short for Lawrence, meaning “crowned with laurel.”
- Lester: An English name meaning “from Leicester.”
- Levi: A Hebrew name meaning “joined in harmony.”
- Lincoln: An English presidential name associated with honesty.
- Logan: A Scottish name meaning “little hollow.” famously the name of Wolverine.
- Loki: The Norse god of mischief. Perfect for a dog who loves to cause trouble.
- Marley: The mischievous Labrador from Marley & Me.
- Maverick: An American name for an independent nonconformist.
- Max: A perennial favorite meaning “greatest.”
- Maximus: A Latin name meaning “greatest,” often used for large breeds.
- Miles: A Latin name meaning “soldier.”
- Milo: A gentle name meaning “soldier” or “merciful.”
- Moses: A biblical name meaning “delivered from the water.”
- Murphy: A Gaelic name meaning “sea warrior.”
- Ned: An old-school nickname for Edward meaning “wealthy guardian.”
- Nelson: An English surname meaning “son of Neil.”
- Newton: An English name meaning “new town,” associated with science.
- Oakley: An English nature name meaning “meadow of oak trees.”
- Oaks: A shortened, punchier version of Oakley.
- Old Yeller: The ultimate loyal companion from Fred Gipson’s classic novel.
- Oliver: A peaceful name meaning “olive tree.”
- Ollie: The cute, energetic nickname for Oliver.
- Pablo: The Spanish version of Paul, meaning “humble.”
- Paco: A Spanish nickname for Francisco, meaning “free.”
- Parker: An English occupational name for a park keeper.
- Petey: The pit bull mascot from The Little Rascals.
- Quentin: A Latin name meaning “the fifth.”
- Quest: A word name implying adventure and journey.
- Quigley: An Irish name meaning “unruly hair.” Great for terriers.
- Quimby: A Scandinavian place name meaning “woman’s estate.”
- Quincy: A Latin name associated with the number five.
- Quinn: An Irish surname meaning “descendant of Conn (chief).”
- Rory: An Irish name meaning “red king.” Perfect for Irish Setters.
- Sammy: A sweet nickname for Samuel, meaning “God has heard.”
- Samson: A Hebrew name meaning “sun child,” famous for his immense strength.
- Samuel: A biblical name meaning “told by God.”
- Scout: A French word name meaning “to listen” or “sentinel.”
- Shadow: A classic name for a black dog or one that follows you everywhere.
- Shiloh: A Hebrew place name meaning “tranquil.” Also a famous beagle from fiction.
- Simba: The Swahili word for “lion,” popularized by Disney.
- Skip: A cheerful nickname meaning “ship captain.”
- Steve: A Greek name meaning “crown.”
- Theodore: A Greek name meaning “gift of God.”
- Thor: The Norse god of thunder, often depicted with a hammer.
- Tobias: A Hebrew name meaning “God is good.”
- Toto: Dorothy’s brave little cairn terrier in The Wizard of Oz.
- Trevor: A Welsh name meaning “large settlement.”
- Udin: An Arabic name referring to faith and religion.
- Ulrich: A German name meaning “noble heritage.”
- Vader: A Dutch word for “father,” but mostly known for the Sith Lord.
- Wally: A friendly Welsh nickname for Walter.
- Washington: An English surname and a patriotic nod to the first U.S. President.
- Watts: An English surname meaning “son of Walter.”
- Winston: A British classic meaning “joyful stone,” associated with Churchill.
- Wolfgang: A German name meaning “path of the wolf.”
- Xander: Short for Alexander, meaning “defender of the people.”
- Xavier: A Basque name meaning “new house” or “bright.”
- Yale: A Welsh name meaning “fertile upland.”
- Yancy: A Native American name meaning “Englishman.”
- Yang: A Chinese name representing light, sun, and positive energy.
- Yankee: A patriotic American term or a baseball team reference.
- Yardley: An English name meaning “fenced meadow.”
134 Cool Boy Dog Names
These names carry a bit of swagger and attitude.
- Archer: An English occupational name for a bowman.
- Atlas: The Titan who held up the sky in Greek mythology.
- August: A Latin name meaning “great” or “venerable.”
- Augustus: A majestic Latin name for a dog with a big presence.
- Axis: A sharp, modern word name.
- Bailey: An English occupational name for a bailiff. A unisex favorite.
- Beatle: A tribute to the legendary rock band, The Beatles.
- Beckham: A stylish English surname, often honoring soccer star David Beckham.
- Benji: The mixed-breed movie star known for his intelligence.
- Benny: A retro nickname for Benjamin or Benedict.
- Bentley: An English surname and a luxury car brand.
- Bingo: The farmer’s dog from the song, or the dad from the show Bluey.
- Blaze: A fiery name for a fast or red-coated dog.
- Blue: A cool color name, famously worn by Blue from Blue’s Clues.
- Bond: As in James Bond. Smooth, sophisticated, and British.
- Boss: A slang term for the one in charge.
- Bully: Historically meant “sweetheart,” but now implies a tough demeanor.
- Caesar: A Latin imperial title meaning “head of hair.”
- Carl: A serious but cute German name meaning “free man.”
- Cash: A tribute to Johnny Cash, the Man in Black.
- Casper: The friendly ghost. Great for a white dog.
- Clyde: The partner in crime to Bonnie.
- Cobalt: A cool metallic element associated with the color blue.
- Coco: A French name referring to the cocoa bean.
- Cosmo: A Greek name meaning “order” and “beauty,” with a space-age vibe.
- Dallas: A Scottish name and a major city in Texas.
- Dash: A perfect name for a whippet or greyhound.
- Denver: A place name meaning “green valley.”
- Dexter: A Latin name meaning “right-handed” or “fortunate.”
- Diesel: A tough, mechanical name for a strong dog.
- Digger: An action-based name for the pup who ruins your garden.
- Doodle: A fun name often used for Poodle mixes (Labradoodles, Goldendoodles).
- Dude: A relaxed slang term for a guy.
- East: A directional name popularized by celebrities.
- Enzo: An Italian name meaning “home ruler.” Also tied to Ferrari.
- Falcon: A fierce bird of prey.
- Fletcher: An English occupational name for an arrow maker.
- Floyd: A Welsh name meaning “gray-haired.”
- Flynn: An Irish name meaning “son of the red-haired one.”
- Gabe: Short for Gabriel, meaning “God is my strength.”
- Gandalf: The wise wizard from The Lord of the Rings.
- Ghost: The direwolf from Game of Thrones. Good for white shepherds.
- Gino: An Italian nickname for names ending in -gin.
- Grinch: The green grouch from Dr. Seuss. A funny pick for a grumpy dog.
- Gumby: The flexible green clay character.
- Hades: The Greek god of the underworld.
- Hank: A German nickname for Henry, meaning “home ruler.”
- Harry: Famous for Prince Harry or Harry Potter.
- Haze: A nature name referring to mist or fog.
- Hector: A Greek hero name meaning “holding fast.”
- Hugo: A Latinized version of Hugh, meaning “mind” or “spirit.”
- Hulk: The massive green superhero. Great for Bulldogs or tiny Chihuahuas (ironically).
- Igor: The Russian variation of Ingvar, meaning “warrior.”
- Jagger: An English name meaning “carter,” famously associated with Mick Jagger.
- Jake: A solid, friendly Hebrew name meaning “supplanter.”
- Joey: A diminutive of Joseph, meaning “God will increase.”
- Julian: A Latin name meaning “youthful.”
- Julius: A Latin name synonymous with Roman emperors.
- Jupiter: The supreme Roman god and the largest planet.
- Kahuna: A Hawaiian word for an expert or shaman.
- Kody: An English name meaning “helpful.”
- Kona: A district in Hawaii known for coffee.
- Land: A sturdy, grounding word name.
- Lasso: A cowboy’s rope. Great for herding dogs.
- Ledge: Short for Ledger or referring to a cliff edge.
- Leo: A Latin name meaning “lion.”
- Luca: An Italian name meaning “bringer of light.”
- Magnum: A Latin word for “great,” or the TV detective.
- Manny: Short for Emmanuel, meaning “God is with us.”
- Mars: The Roman god of war.
- Mascot: A lucky charm for a team.
- Mick: Short for Michael, famously worn by Mick Jagger.
- Mickey: The most famous mouse in the world.
- Major: A military rank indicating importance.
- Nash: An English surname, or short for Nashville.
- Nate: Short for Nathan, meaning “gift of God.”
- Nemo: The adventurous clownfish from Pixar.
- Neo: The chosen one from The Matrix.
- Noah: A Hebrew name meaning “rest” or “repose.”
- Oasis: A fertile spot in a desert.
- Obi: A nod to Obi-Wan Kenobi from Star Wars.
- Odin: The chief Norse god.
- Orion: The hunter constellation.
- Oscar: An Irish name meaning “deer lover.”
- Oslo: The capital city of Norway.
- Oso: The Spanish word for “bear.”
- Otis: An English name meaning “wealthy.”
- Ozzy: A rock-and-roll name associated with Ozzy Osbourne.
- Patty: A nickname for Patrick.
- Peanut: A cute name for a tiny or brown dog.
- Pepper: A spicy name for a black or spotted dog.
- Peyton: An English surname famously held by quarterback Peyton Manning.
- Ralph: An Old Norse name meaning “wolf counsel.”
- Rambo: The tough action hero played by Sylvester Stallone.
- Reece: A Welsh name meaning “enthusiasm.”
- Reed: An English nature name meaning “red-haired.”
- Riley: An Irish name meaning “courageous.”
- Ringo: The drummer for The Beatles.
- Robby: A nickname for Robert, meaning “bright fame.”
- Rocket: A high-energy name for a fast runner.
- Rocky: The famous boxing champion from the movies.
- Romeo: The tragic lover from Shakespeare.
- Rookie: A name for a newcomer or beginner.
- Royal: A regal name for a pampered pup.
- Rue: An herb name or a character from The Hunger Games.
- Saint: A virtuous name, or a nod to the New Orleans football team.
- Scottie: A nickname for a Scottish Terrier.
- Shrek: The lovable ogre from DreamWorks.
- Soldier: A strong name for a disciplined dog.
- Steel: A strong metal name.
- Stone: A nature name implying hardness and stability.
- Ted: Short for Theodore.
- Thor: The God of Thunder.
- Toby: A friendly classic meaning “God is good.”
- Tucker: An English occupational name for a cloth softener.
- Venom: A sharp name, or the Marvel anti-hero.
- Vinnie: Short for Vincent, meaning “conquering.”
- Vito: An Italian name meaning “life,” famous from The Godfather.
- Von: A German preposition meaning “from.”
- Warrior: A literal name for a fighter.
- Weston: An English place name meaning “from the west town.”
- Whiz: Someone who is smart or fast.
- Wilde: A surname honoring author Oscar Wilde.
- Willow: A tree name associated with grace.
- Willy: Short for William, famously associated with the movie Free Willy.
- Woody: The cowboy doll from Toy Story.
- Yeti: The mythical abominable snowman.
- Yogi: The bear who loves picnic baskets.
- Yukon: A rugged Canadian territory.
- Zeke: Short for Ezekiel, meaning “God strengthens.”
- Zeus: The king of the Greek gods.
- Zippo: A snappy name, often associated with lighters.
- Zoomba: A playful name for a dog with the “zoomies.”
- Zorro: The masked vigilante. Spanish for “fox.”
135 Unique Male Names For Dogs
If you want something that stands out at the dog park, try one of these.
- Abu: Aladdin’s monkey companion.
- Admiral: A high-ranking naval officer.
- Alfie: An English name meaning “wise counselor.”
- Alpha: The first letter of the Greek alphabet, or the leader of the pack.
- Archibald: A distinguished German name meaning “genuine” and “bold.”
- Atari: A retro video game brand.
- Balto: The heroic sled dog who delivered serum to Nome, Alaska.
- Banjo: A musical name with a country twang.
- Baxter: An English occupational name for a baker.
- Bear: A popular name for large, fluffy breeds.
- Beau: A French term of endearment meaning “handsome.”
- Blase: A French name meaning “stutterer.”
- Bozo: The famous clown. Good for a goofy dog.
- Bravo: A code word for the letter B, or a cheer for a job well done.
- Bruiser: A tough guy name, often used ironically for Chihuahuas.
- Buddy: The universal name for a friend.
- Buzz: The space ranger Buzz Lightyear.
- Cannon: A heavy artillery weapon.
- Captain: A leader name for a dog who takes charge.
- Champ: Short for Champion.
- Chief: The head of a group or tribe.
- Taco: A fun food name, perfect for a Chihuahua.
- Cletis: A Greek name meaning “glory.”
- Como: An Italian lake known for its beauty.
- Cosmic: Relating to the universe.
- Courage: The purple dog from Courage the Cowardly Dog.
- Cuddles: A sweet name for an affectionate pet.
- Delta: The fourth letter of the Greek alphabet.
- Deputy: A law enforcement title.
- Diablo: Spanish for “devil.”
- Dickens: A literary name honoring Charles Dickens.
- Dux: Latin for “leader.”
- Fargo: A city in North Dakota and a famous movie.
- Fidget: For the dog who can’t sit still.
- Francois: The French form of Francis.
- Frodo: The ring-bearer from Lord of the Rings.
- Fuego: Spanish for “fire.”
- Gallant: Brave and heroic.
- Hamilton: A Scottish surname and a hit musical.
- Hansen: A Scandinavian surname meaning “son of Hans.”
- Harley: A motorcycle brand associated with freedom.
- Honey: A sweet term of endearment.
- Hot Dog: A funny literal name for Dachshunds.
- Husky: A breed name or a description of a voice.
- Hyde: The evil alter ego of Dr. Jekyll.
- Ibis: A long-legged wading bird.
- Idris: A Welsh name meaning “lord,” or actor Idris Elba.
- Iggy: A nickname for Ignatius, or rock star Iggy Pop.
- Jasper: A Persian name meaning “bringer of treasure.”
- Jax: A modern, edgy nickname for Jackson.
- Jerry: The mouse from Tom & Jerry.
- Jett: A mineral name associated with the color black.
- Jofi: A Hebrew name meaning “beauty.”
- Kai: A Hawaiian name meaning “sea.”
- Kalypso: A Greek nymph name.
- King: A royal title for the ruler of the house.
- Klue: A unique spelling for a hint or mystery.
- Kobe: A city in Japan, or a tribute to Kobe Bryant.
- Kodiak: A type of bear, perfect for a big brown dog.
- Lord: A title of nobility.
- Lucky: A classic name for a rescue dog.
- Mack: A strong name, often associated with trucks.
- Mando: Short for The Mandalorian.
- Marcus: A Latin name meaning “warlike.”
- Pilot: A guide or aviator.
- Marshall: The fire dog from Paw Patrol.
- Maxwell: A Scottish stream name.
- Nico: Short for Nicolas, meaning “people of victory.”
- Nippy: A descriptive name for a puppy who bites.
- North: A directional name.
- Nutso: A silly name for a crazy dog.
- Nutterbutter: A peanut butter cookie name.
- Oreo: The classic black and white cookie.
- Paws: A cute focus on your dog’s feet.
- Phoenix: The mythical bird that rises from ashes.
- Picasso: The famous Spanish painter. Good for a dog with a unique coat.
- Gizmo: The cute creature from Gremlins.
- Pitbull: The rapper Mr. Worldwide.
- Pogo: Like the pogo stick. For a jumper.
- Prince: A royal name.
- Quaker: A member of a religious group, or a type of parrot.
- Quartz: A common crystal mineral.
- Quattro: Italian for “four.”
- Quirk: An odd or peculiar trait.
- Radio: A vintage technology name.
- Reign: A royal word name.
- Rex: The classic dog name meaning “king.”
- Rin Tin Tin: The famous German Shepherd movie star.
- Roman: A strong name referring to Rome.
- Rooster: A cocky name for a strutting dog.
- Rubble: The construction bulldog from Paw Patrol.
- Ruff: A play on “rough” or the sound a dog makes.
- Sabin: A Latin name relating to the Sabines.
- Santana: The famous guitarist Carlos Santana.
- Scooby: The mystery-solving Great Dane.
- Scrappy: Scooby-Doo’s feisty nephew.
- Sergeant: A military rank.
- Sinbad: The sailor from Arabian Nights.
- Slinky: The dachshund toy from Toy Story.
- Smalls: As in “You’re killing me, Smalls!” from The Sandlot.
- Snapper: A type of fish or turtle.
- Sniffles: A cute name for a dog who is always sniffing.
- Snoopy: The world’s most famous beagle.
- Sparky: A traditional name for a lively dog or firehouse mascot.
- Spot: A classic name for a dog with markings.
- Stitch: The alien experiment from Lilo & Stitch.
- Stubby: A name for a dog with short legs or a short tail.
- Sweetheart: An affectionate term.
- Sweetie Pie: For the dog who is as sweet as dessert.
- Gidget: The real name of the famous Taco Bell dog.
- Tank: A tough name for a big (or ironic small) dog.
- Teddy: Like a Teddy Bear.
- Tex: A nickname for a cowboy or Texan.
- Trakr: The hero dog who found survivors on 9/11.
- Tramp: The scruffy hero from Lady and the Tramp.
- Uggie: The talented Jack Russell from the movie The Artist.
- Ulysses: The Latin form of Odysseus.
- Uncle: A quirky, respectable family name.
- Uno: Spanish for “one.”
- Upton: An English place name.
- Urbana: Relating to the city.
- Van: Short for Vance or Ivan.
- Ventura: Meaning “fortune,” famously Ace Ventura.
- Victor: A Latin name meaning “winner.”
- Wags: For the happy dog whose tail never stops.
- West: A directional name.
- Wilder: An untamed surname.
- Winn-Dixie: The dog found in a supermarket in the famous book.
- Wishbone: The literary Jack Russell Terrier from PBS.
- Xenon: A chemical element.
- Xerxes: A Persian king name.
- Xion: A unique spelling of Zion.
- Zeal: Meaning great energy or enthusiasm.
- Zero: The ghost dog from The Nightmare Before Christmas.
- Ziggy: A German name famously used by David Bowie (Ziggy Stardust).












