Ultimate Dog Names Resource: Index to All Dog and Puppy Names

By Janice Jones   | Last Updated 04-04-2024

Dog Names are as diverse as the dog breeds themselves, and they seem to go in and out of popularity.  There are so many possibilities that it can be a daunting task just coming up with the right name.

Can't decide what to name your new small breed puppy? We've done a little research and came up with a list of some popular dog names by breed.

This is what we found unique about Small breed puppy owners:  They chose names based on the following criteria:

• The color of their hair
• A favorite human name
• A name based on the origin of the breed (i.e. Asian, European, Mexican, etc.)
• A royal name
• A famous animal name
• A name that describes their personality or temperament
• A location or place name
• A famous god or goddess
• A favorite singer, actor, comedian, sports professional
• A name from Pop Culture
• Something totally unique

What about you?  Where will your new dog's name come from?

Table of Contents
Complete List of Dog Names on Small Dog Place

Small Dog Place Dog Names Survey

Small Dog Place is also collecting popular dog names and if you would like to help us, we'd love to know what your dog's name. Contact us if you want to add your dog's name to any of the hundreds of dog names on this site.  Don't forget to let us know which page you want your mention to appear.

Dog Names from the Movies and Television

Dog Names From Food and Drinks

Dog Names Just for Fun

Dog Names Based on Color

Dog Names Based on Nature

Dog Names Based on a Holiday

Names Based on Disney Characters

Names Based on Gender

Dog Names Based on The Breed's Country of Origin

Dog Names by Country of Origin is a very popular way of choosing a puppy name, especially for a purebred dog. 

More Small Dog Names

Many experts suggest that a dog name should be short.  Check out this list of two syllable dog names.

Rules for Naming Your Small Breed Dog

Concentrate on the first syllable of the name.  This is the sound the dog will hear.  But, don't limit yourself to a one syllable name -- two or three syllable names can be great.

Choose a name that does not have the same first sound as another pet or person in the household.

For example, it would be very confusing to two pets in the same household named Alexander and Alexandra. It would be OK to name two pets Abby and Alexander.

Teach your dog his name by using it frequently. When training a dog to perform a new trick, it's always easy to say the dog's name first, then the command. "Zoey, Sit." 

Using your puppy's name in a happy tone and praising them when they respond will go a long way towards training. Once the dog knows his name, it is much easier to call out the name and then a command.

Choose a name that stands the test of time.  Trendy names are great, but remember most small dogs live 12 to 15 years.  What sounds great today will be out-of-date in 15 years.

Choose a name that you feel comfortable shouting in public, at the vet clinic, groomers, or dog park.  Don't pick a name that might cause embarrassment, could offend someone or worst of all, get you arrested!

Reference and Further Reading

American Kennel Club Puppy Names