Introduction
Naming a new pet is one of the most exciting parts of becoming a pet parent. The name you choose reflects your pet’s personality, your style, and sometimes even your favorite movie character.
In 2025, pet names are more creative and meaningful than ever before. According to recent Google searches and pet registration data, these are the top 10 most popular pet names in America—for both dogs and cats. Let’s dive into their meanings and why they’re trending!
1. Luna 🌙
Meaning: “Moon” in Latin
- Inspired by the Roman goddess of the moon
- Popular in pop culture (Harry Potter, My Little Pony)
- Works for both cats and dogs
Why it’s popular: Short, sweet, mystical, and elegant. Luna has held the #1 spot for years and shows no signs of slowing down.
2. Bella 💕
Meaning: “Beautiful” in Italian
- Associated with elegance and charm
- Boosted by Twilight fame (Bella Swan)
Why it’s popular: Bella is timeless, easy to say, and fits perfectly with affectionate pets.
3. Charlie 🐾
Meaning: “Free man” in Old English
- Unisex name, loved for dogs and cats alike
- Friendly and approachable vibe
Why it’s popular: Pet parents adore names that feel warm and playful—Charlie is exactly that.
4. Daisy 🌼
Meaning: A cheerful flower symbolizing purity and innocence
- Classic, soft, and nature-inspired
Why it’s popular: Many pet parents choose flower-inspired names, and Daisy leads the pack for its gentle, happy tone.
5. Max 🦴
Meaning: Short for Maximilian or Maxwell, meaning “greatest”
- A classic dog name for decades
Why it’s popular: Strong, easy to shout at the park, and has an energetic, loyal feel.
6. Lucy 🐶
Meaning: “Light” in Latin
- Sweet, simple, and charming
Why it’s popular: Lucy gives off a friendly, lovable vibe that works for many breeds and personalities.
7. Coco 🐩
Meaning: Derived from “cocoa,” symbolizing sweetness
- Trendy and stylish, especially for small dogs and cats
Why it’s popular: Cute, chic, and influenced by fashion and celebrity pets.
8. Milo 🐕
Meaning: “Soldier” or “merciful” in Old German
- Popularized by movies like The Adventures of Milo and Otis
Why it’s popular: Short, modern, and fun—perfect for playful pups and curious kittens.
9. Cooper 🐾
Meaning: “Barrel maker” in Old English (occupational name)
- Strong and friendly
Why it’s popular: Cooper feels dependable and outgoing, making it a favorite for family pets.
10. Teddy 🧸
Meaning: “Gift of God,” often short for Theodore
- Inspired by teddy bears, symbolizing cuddles and comfort
Why it’s popular: Many pet parents love giving their pets soft, adorable names—Teddy is perfect for fluffy dogs and cats.
Honorable Mentions
- Bailey – classic and cozy
- Rocky – tough and adventurous
- Oliver – elegant and friendly
- Nala – inspired by The Lion King
- Zoe – means “life” in Greek
FAQs About Pet Names in 2025
Q1: What is the #1 pet name in the USA right now?
Luna is the #1 most popular pet name in America for both dogs and cats.
Q2: Are these names more common for dogs or cats?
Some (like Max and Cooper) lean dog-friendly, while others (like Luna and Nala) are popular for cats. Many, like Charlie and Bella, are unisex and work for both.
Q3: Should I choose a popular name or a unique one?
It depends! Popular names are easy and loved by many, but unique names make your pet stand out.
Q4: How do I know if a name fits my pet?
Try saying it out loud, test how your pet responds, and make sure it’s easy to use during training.
Conclusion
The top 10 pet names in America for 2025 reflect a mix of timeless classics and modern trends. Whether you choose Luna, Bella, Charlie, or Milo, the most important thing is picking a name that feels right for your pet’s personality.
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Discover the top 10 most popular pet names in the USA for 2025. From Luna to Charlie, explore trending dog and cat names, their meanings, and why pet parents love them.
