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253 Adorable Pug Names: for Your Furry Friend

Updated
These pug names are cute enough for your curly-tailed companion!

Bringing a Pug home means inviting a comedian into your life. These affectionate, wrinkly pups deserve names that reflect their goofy yet charming personalities. Whether you have a fawn puppy or a black one, finding the right moniker is the first step in your journey together.

We have gathered the best options for your new family member, ranging from distinguished human names to food-inspired choices. Explore these lists to find a title that perfectly suits your “multum in parvo” (much in little) companion.


91 Awesome Male Pug Names

These male Pug names range from distinguished gentlemen to mischievous troublemakers.

  1. Apollo: Associated with the Greek god of music, healing, and the sun.
  2. Archer: A sharp name for a pup with keen instincts.
  3. Atticus: Inspired by the wise lawyer in To Kill a Mockingbird.
  4. Aslan: Belongs to the noble lion character in The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe.
  5. Bark Twain: A clever pun on Mark Twain for your vocal companion.
  6. Barney: A friendly option associated with the purple dinosaur.
  7. Baxter: Means “baker” in Old English, suitable for a Pug who loves treats.
  8. Bear: A cuddly option for a dog with a gentle, protective nature.
  9. Brody: This rugged Scottish name means “ditch.”
  10. Bruno: Means “brown” in German, perfect for a fawn or brown-coated Pug.
  11. Buddy: A classic choice for your loyal true companion.
  12. Buster: A high-energy name for a dog who loves to play.
  13. Casper: Inspired by the friendly ghost and great for a white or fawn Pug.
  14. Cesar: Of Roman origin meaning “hairy,” which fits your shedding friend well.
  15. Chaplin: Captures your Pug’s comedic charm, inspired by the silent film star.
  16. Chester: A classic English name meaning “fortress.”
  17. Chewbacca: Ideal for a Star Wars fan or a dog who loves to chew.
  18. Dante: A sophisticated Italian name meaning “enduring.”
  19. Darwin: Great for science lovers, honoring the famous naturalist.
  20. Dash: Perfect for the rare Pug who actually likes to run fast.
  21. Dexter: Means “skilled” in English, fitting for a dog who knows many tricks.
  22. Diego: A Spanish name with a bit of flair.
  23. Doug: A nod to the famous internet celebrity, Doug the Pug.
  24. Duke: Represents nobility for the pup who demands royal treatment.
  25. Dusty: Reflects the soft, grayish color of some Pug coats.
  26. Elio: A unique Italian name meaning “sun.”
  27. Elvis: Perfect for a dog with a rock-and-roll personality.
  28. Ernie: A youthful name belonging to the beloved Sesame Street character.
  29. Felix: Means “fortunate” or “happy” in Latin.
  30. Finn: A spirited, short form of Finnegan.
  31. Finnegan: A charming Irish name meaning “fair” or “blessed.”
  32. Frodo: Inspired by the brave hobbit from The Lord of the Rings.
  33. Gatsby: Associated with the Great American Novel and high society.
  34. Gizmo: A top choice for Pugs, referencing the creature from Gremlins.
  35. Gordo: Spanish for “fat,” celebrating the Pug’s round, lovable shape.
  36. Gus: A short, solid name meaning “exalted.”
  37. Houdini: Perfect for the dog who always escapes his crate.
  38. Hugo: A Germanic name meaning “mind” or “intellect.”
  39. Jasper: A gemstone name symbolizing how precious your dog is.
  40. Jett: A sleek choice that is perfect for a black Pug.
  41. Jinx: Great for a pup who gets into amusing predicaments.
  42. Kobe: Associated with the legendary basketball player.
  43. Koda: An Algonquin name meaning “friend.”
  44. Kuan: Chinese for “spacious,” suitable for a dog with a big heart.
  45. Leo: Symbolizes a brave little lion who protects his family.
  46. Loki: The Norse god of mischief, perfect for a troublemaker.
  47. Maverick: English for “independent,” suiting a bold dog.
  48. Max: Derived from “Maximus” (greatest), a perennial favorite.
  49. Milo: Means “soldier” in Latin, ideal for a well-behaved boy.
  50. Mozart: Inspired by the renowned composer for a vocal dog.
  51. Murphy: An approachable Irish name meaning “sea battle.”
  52. Nico: Short for Nicholas, meaning “victory of the people.”
  53. Oliver: A popular choice meaning “olive tree.”
  54. Orion: A celestial name associated with the hunter constellation.
  55. Oscar: A sophisticated Irish name meaning “deer friend.”
  56. Otis: famous from the movie Milo and Otis.
  57. Pippin: A cute, nerdy name from The Lord of the Rings.
  58. Prince: For a dog with a royal air or fans of the musician.
  59. Pugsworth: A distinguished and funny title for a gentleman Pug.
  60. Rajan: An exotic Sanskrit name meaning “king.”
  61. Remy: A French name with a charming feel.
  62. Rocky: Ideal for a sturdy little dog with a fighter’s spirit.
  63. Romeo: Perfect for the dog who loves to give kisses.
  64. Rufus: Latin for “red-haired,” suitable for fawn Pugs.
  65. Sampson: A strong Hebrew name meaning “sun.”
  66. Sheldon: A nod to the quirky character from The Big Bang Theory.
  67. Sherlock: For the clever dog with excellent food detection skills.
  68. Simba: Means “lion” in Swahili, famous from Disney.
  69. Smokey: A classic name for a gray or silver-fawn Pug.
  70. Spock: An iconic Vulcan name for sci-fi fans.
  71. Sully: A catchy short form of Sullivan.
  72. Sven: Scandinavian for “young warrior.”
  73. Tao: Means “path” or “way” in Chinese.
  74. Theo: A gentle name derived from Theodore.
  75. Thor: The Norse thunder god, a mighty choice for a small dog.
  76. Tito: A cute Italian and Spanish form of Titus.
  77. Toby: A sweet name meaning “God is good.”
  78. Tucker: Funny for a Pug who is easily “tuckered out.”
  79. Ulysses: Borne by the Greek hero, symbolizing adventure.
  80. Vader: One of the best names for black Pugs who embrace the dark side.
  81. Wally: An adorable short form of Walter.
  82. Walter: An elegant name that fits the Pug’s grumpy old man face.
  83. Watson: The loyal companion to Sherlock, great for a sidekick.
  84. Winston: A sophisticated choice, often linked to Churchill.
  85. Xander: A modern, confident form of Alexander.
  86. Yoda: Inspired by the wise, wrinkly Jedi Master.
  87. Zephyr: Means “gentle breeze,” fitting for a calm dog.
  88. Zeus: The ruler of the gods in Greek mythology.
  89. Zheng: A Chinese name meaning “righteous.”
  90. Ziggy: A quirky name meaning “peaceful victory.”
  91. Zorro: Inspired by the masked hero, great for a dog with a black mask.

86 Adorable Female Pug Names

Here are some sweet and sassy names for your little girl Pug.

  1. Ada: A vintage option meaning “noble” in Germanic.
  2. Angel: Heavenly and ideal for a gentle-natured pup.
  3. Aurora: Whimsical and inspired by the Sleeping Beauty princess.
  4. Bella: A top favorite meaning “beautiful” in Italian.
  5. Birdie: Cheerful and free-spirited.
  6. Bubbles: Captures a bubbly, happy personality.
  7. Callie: An adorable short form of Caroline.
  8. Chloe: A timeless Greek name meaning “green shoot.”
  9. Cinnamon: Warm and aromatic, perfect for a fawn coat.
  10. Cleo: Short for Cleopatra, a strong and regal option.
  11. Coco: A chic choice linked to Coco Chanel.
  12. Daisy: A cute nature name associated with the happy flower.
  13. Daphne: Inspired by Greek mythology, symbolizing beauty.
  14. Delilah: Hebrew for “delicate” or “desired.”
  15. Dolly: Perfect for fans of country legend Dolly Parton.
  16. Effie: Short for Euphemia, great for vintage lovers.
  17. Ella: A simple, cute name of Germanic origin.
  18. Eloise: A charming French name meaning “healthy.”
  19. Evie: Sweet and lively, meaning “to live.”
  20. Fiona: Means “fair,” suitable for a light-colored Pug.
  21. Flora: The Roman goddess of flowers and spring.
  22. Freya: The Norse goddess of love and fertility.
  23. Gemma: Means “precious stone,” for a dog that is a true gem.
  24. Gigi: Chic and fashionable for a stylish pup.
  25. Ginger: Spunky and inspired by the spice.
  26. Harriet: Strong and timeless, adding a touch of elegance.
  27. Hazel: References the tree or the light brown color.
  28. Isla: An aesthetic Scottish name meaning “island.”
  29. Isra: Arabic for “nocturnal journey,” for a night owl.
  30. Ivy: A nature name symbolizing growth and resilience.
  31. Jasmine: Associated with the fragrant flower and Disney princess.
  32. Juno: The Roman goddess symbolizing strength.
  33. Kaya: A Hopi name meaning “pure.”
  34. Keira: Irish for “dark-haired,” great for black Pugs.
  35. Kiki: A playful, high-energy name.
  36. Kona: Hawaiian-inspired, evoking adventure.
  37. Lacey: Delicate and often related to lace fabric.
  38. Leia: A tribute to the Star Wars princess.
  39. Leila: Means “night” in Arabic, perfect for dark coats.
  40. Lilo: The Hawaiian character meaning “generous one.”
  41. Lucy: A popular English form of Lucia.
  42. Lulu: An adorable, repetitive nickname.
  43. Luna: Associated with the moon, a very popular dog name.
  44. Mabel: A vintage name meaning “lovable.”
  45. Maggie: Greek for “pearl,” a classic dog name.
  46. Maisie: A delightful Scottish variant of Margaret.
  47. Maple: A sweet choice for a dog with a golden-brown coat.
  48. Mei Mei: Endearing Chinese name referring to a younger sister.
  49. Mia: Means “mine” or “beloved” in Italian.
  50. Miko: Japanese for “shrine maiden.”
  51. Molly: Irish origin meaning “wished-for child.”
  52. Nala: The beloved lioness from The Lion King.
  53. Nola: Lively and related to New Orleans.
  54. Nova: Latin for “new,” for a vibrant personality.
  55. Olive: Quirky and reminiscent of the small fruit.
  56. Pearl: Timeless and symbolizing purity.
  57. Penny: Coin-inspired and perfect for a copper or fawn dog.
  58. Pippa: Adorable and energetic.
  59. Poppy: Named after the vibrant red flower.
  60. Queenie: For the bossy female Pug who rules the house.
  61. Raina: Sanskrit for “queen.”
  62. Rosie: Symbolizes the beauty of the rose.
  63. Roxy: Lively and sassy.
  64. Ruby: A precious red jewel name.
  65. Sadie: Hebrew for “princess,” a very popular choice.
  66. Sandy: Great for a Pug with a sandy brown coat.
  67. Seraphina: Unique and fiery.
  68. Sophie: Greek for “wisdom,” suited for an elegant dog.
  69. Stella: Latin for “star,” for a bright personality.
  70. Suri: Persian name meaning “rose.”
  71. Suriya: Thai for “sun.”
  72. Sydney: Inspired by the Australian city.
  73. Tilly: Playful short form of Matilda.
  74. Tinkerbell: Whimsical and suitable for a small, sassy dog.
  75. Trixie: Perfect for a “tricky” little Pug.
  76. Truffle: A luxurious name inspired by chocolate or mushrooms.
  77. Uma: Sanskrit for “bright.”
  78. Vega: A bright star name.
  79. Violet: Delicate and charming like the flower.
  80. Vivi: Vivacious and full of life.
  81. Willow: Nature-inspired and graceful.
  82. Winnie: A cute choice for a chunky Pug, like the Pooh bear.
  83. Xena: The warrior princess, for a tough girl.
  84. Yara: Arabic for “small butterfly.”
  85. Zara: Means “shining” or “bright.”
  86. Zoey: Greek for “life.”

76 Clever Unisex Pug Names

These gender-neutral options work perfectly for any Pug, focusing on food, nature, and fun.

  1. Adrian: Sophisticated and elegant.
  2. Avery: Means “elf ruler,” for a magical pup.
  3. Bao: Chinese for “treasure” or “bun.”
  4. Basil: An adorable herb name for your little sprout.
  5. Bean: A top choice for black Pugs who look like jellybeans.
  6. Biscuit: Delightful and warm, like a fresh treat.
  7. Blake: Old English for “black,” perfect for dark coats.
  8. Boba: Fun and inspired by the tapioca pearls in tea.
  9. Brownie: A sweet name for a chocolate-colored dog.
  10. Bumblebee: Playful and cute, or for Transformers fans.
  11. Cairo: Inspired by the Egyptian capital.
  12. Caramel: Sweet and rich.
  13. Casey: Irish for “vigilant,” for a good watchdog.
  14. Charlie: Universally popular and friendly.
  15. Cherub: Angellic, for your innocent baby.
  16. Chestnut: Classic for a reddish-brown coat.
  17. Chewy: Funny for a dog with an appetite.
  18. Cocoa: Comforting and warm.
  19. Cookie: Sweet and universally loved.
  20. Cosmo: Mysterious and space-themed.
  21. Dumpling: The ultimate name for a round, squishy Pug.
  22. Drew: Short, snappy, and Greek for “manly.”
  23. Espresso: For a small dog with high energy.
  24. Eureka: Signifies a moment of discovery.
  25. Frankie: A lovable nickname for Frank or Francesca.
  26. Fudge: Rich and sweet.
  27. Harper: “Harp player,” great for music lovers.
  28. Hong: Chinese for “red.”
  29. Indy: Short for Indiana Jones, for the adventurer.
  30. Jesse: Hebrew for “gift.”
  31. Kieran: Irish for “little dark one.”
  32. Kismet: Means “fate” or “meant to be.”
  33. Kiwi: Short, fuzzy, and sweet.
  34. Lucky: An auspicious name to bring good fortune.
  35. Ming: A nod to the Chinese dynasty and the breed’s history.
  36. Mocha: Great for a coffee-colored coat.
  37. Mochi: Inspired by the soft, squishy Japanese treat.
  38. Nimbus: Cloud-themed, for a dreamer.
  39. Noodle: Captures a Pug’s wiggly movements.
  40. Nugget: Small, golden, and cute enough to eat.
  41. Oreo: Great for a black Pug or one with white markings.
  42. Ozzy: Rock ‘n’ roll vibes.
  43. Parker: Outdoorsy and preppy.
  44. Peanut: Perfect for the runt of the litter.
  45. Peewee: Playful and tiny.
  46. Pepper: Spicy, or great for a black coat.
  47. Pickles: Quirky and mischievous.
  48. Pixel: Tech-inspired for a small dog.
  49. Plumpkin: A hilarious combo of “plump” and “pumpkin.”
  50. Pudge: Embraces the chubby cheeks and belly.
  51. Pugzilla: A funny twist on Godzilla for a dog with attitude.
  52. Qing: Chinese for “pure” or “clear.”
  53. Quasar: A massive celestial body (like your Pug’s appetite).
  54. Quincy: Latin for “fifth.”
  55. Quinn: Celtic for “wise.”
  56. Reese: Inspired by the peanut butter cup.
  57. Riley: Irish for “courageous.”
  58. Rowan: Associated with the protective tree.
  59. Rui: Chinese for “smart.”
  60. Saffron: An expensive and vibrant spice.
  61. Sawyer: Adventurous and literary.
  62. Scooter: Energetic and active.
  63. Shu: Chinese for “kind” or “gentle.”
  64. Skyler: Symbolizes freedom and the sky.
  65. Snackmaster: For the dog who is always begging.
  66. Soren: Danish for “stern.”
  67. Squishy: Accurately describes a Pug’s face.
  68. Sunny: Cheerful and bright.
  69. Sushi: Cute and food-inspired.
  70. Taco: Spicy and small.
  71. Taz: Energetic like the Tasmanian Devil.
  72. Teddy: Cuddly as a bear.
  73. Wolfie: Ironic for a Pug, or fitting for a silver coat.
  74. Ying Yue: “Reflection of the moon.”
  75. Yoshi: Japanese for “good luck,” also the Mario dinosaur.
  76. Yuki: Japanese for “snow.”

Pug Names FAQs

What Are Good Pug Names?

The best Pug names embrace the breed’s goofy and affectionate nature. Short, punchy names like Max, Otis, or Bella work well for training. Many owners also love food-inspired names like Bean, Mochi, or Dumpling because they fit the Pug’s round shape and love of snacks perfectly.

What Is a Rare Pug Name?

If you want something unique, look to astronomy or mythology. Names like Nimbus (cloud), Quasar (celestial object), or gladiator-style names like Cato stand out at the dog park. You can also try unique foreign names like Elio (Italian) or Zheng (Chinese) to honor the breed’s origins.

Who Is the Most Famous Pug?

Doug the Pug is the undisputed king of Pug internet fame, boasting millions of followers. However, Pugs have been famous for centuries; a Pug named Pompey famously saved the life of the Prince of Orange in the 1500s by barking at assassins!

What Are Good Names for Black Pugs?

Black Pugs look great with names that highlight their sleek, dark coats. Classics like Shadow, Pepper, Jet, and Onyx are always popular. For a funny twist, you can go with ironic names like Snowball or Casper, or stick to food names like Espresso, Bean, and Truffle.

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About the Author

Chelsea Nelthropp

Chelsea Nelthropp previously worked with special needs children before transitioning to her current passion, freelance writing. She's written on a plethora of topics and enjoys the diversity of her work. In her free time, Chelsea enjoys hiking, creating artwork, reading about true crime, and spending time with her husband and their adorable French Bulldog, Stella.