The UK’s Most Popular Dog Names in 2026! Is Your Dog on the List?

Choosing a name for your dog is one of the first big decisions you’ll make as a pet owner. Some people spend weeks deciding, while others take one look at their new puppy and instantly know they’re a “Bella” or a “Teddy”!

After years of running Kelly’s Canines, where I cared for hundreds of dogs through walking, daycare and boarding and now photographing wonderful dogs at Pawtraits by Kelly, I’ve met dogs with just about every name you can imagine.

Some names seem to pop up again and again, while others are so unique they’ve stayed with me for years!

So, I thought it would be fun to share some of the UK’s most popular dog names in 2026. Is your dog’s name on the list?

💙 Top 20 Male Dog Names

1. Teddy

2. Milo

3. Charlie

4. Buddy

5. Alfie

6. Max

7. Bailey

8. Archie

9. Cooper

10. Rocky

11. Oscar

12. Toby

13. Reggie

14. Bruno

15. Hugo

16. Winston

17. Bear

18. Dexter

19. Jasper

20. Monty

    
    

🩷 Top 20 Female Dog Names

1. Luna

2. Bella

3. Daisy

4. Poppy

5. Lola

6. Willow

7. Rosie

8. Millie

9. Molly

10. Coco

11. Ruby

12. Nala

13. Bonnie

14. Maisie

15. Winnie

16. Holly

17. Penny

18. Olive

19. Ivy

20. Mabel

    
    

The names that always make me smile

Whilst the popular names are lovely, it’s often the unusual ones that stick in my mind!

Over the years I’ve met dogs with names that have made me laugh, smile or simply think, “That’s absolutely perfect!”

Some of my favourites include:

• Pickle

• Biscuit

• Waffle

• Goose

• Noodle

• Kevin

• Doris

• Nacho

• Socks

• Marmite

  
  

One of the things I love most is hearing the story behind a dog’s name. Sometimes it’s inspired by a favourite film, a holiday, a family tradition or simply because it made the whole family laugh.

Does a dog’s name suit their personality?

I think so!

I’ve met gentle giants called Bear who are the softest souls you’ll ever meet, tiny Chihuahuas called Rocky who think they’re bodyguards and countless Lunas who somehow seem to know they’re beautiful! Including mine!

Of course, every dog is unique and that’s exactly what I love about my job. Whether they’re confident, cheeky, mischievous, shy or full of energy, every dog has their own personality and that’s what I aim to capture during every Pawtraits session.

I’d love to know…

Did your dog’s name make the list?

Or have you chosen something completely different?

Pop over to my Facebook or Instagram page and let me know your dog’s name and even better, the story behind it. I absolutely love hearing how our four-legged friends got their names!

Every Dog Has a Story Worth Remembering

Whether your dog is called Luna, Teddy, Kevin or something completely one of a kind, they’re an important part of your family.

At Pawtraits by Kelly, I specialise in creating beautiful studio portraits that celebrate your dog’s unique personality. My relaxed sessions are designed to help every dog feel comfortable, whether they’re full of confidence or a little more reserved.

If you’d love timeless photographs of your best friend, I’d be delighted to welcome you to my Fleet studio.

Get in touch today to book your session and let’s create memories you’ll treasure forever.