The 20 Most Popular Dog Names

Tried and true, the names ahead will stay classic to the end. Looking for something a little more unusual for your puppy? These unique picks will help your new friend stand out.

The name Max means "greatest," which is, of course, perfect for your best pal. We like it because it's casual and straightforward but also has a little spunk to it.

The popularity of this German name dates all the way back to Charlemagne, a.k.a. Charles the Great, so these pooches are in royal company. Of course, there's always the lovable Charlie Brown as an equally excellent namesake.

A British surname that literally means "barrel maker," Cooper implies a very dignified sporting dog, but it's also super cute for an energetic Jack Russell terrier.

Dogs are a person's best friend, so this pick could apply to just about any pup. No guarantee he'll turn into Air Bud though.

This classic name projects a vibe of strength and loyalty, but also has just the right amount of boyish charm and silliness. Keep him away from the ladies!

Sure, your first thought may be of a movie about a fighter — and that's exactly why Rocky gives off that tough-guy or been-through-some-hard-times-but-I've-got-a-heart-of-gold vibe. It's also the obvious choice if your new pooch is a boxer.

We like this classic name for small breeds because it most definitely has a cute-little-old-man ring to it, which is ideal for when they become seniors. Plus, you can call him "Ollie" as a pup.

This one is fairly self-explanatory, especially if you choose it for a Newfoundland, Chow Chow, Tibetan Mastiff, or other giant breed. If you love the idea but your new furry friend is female, you might consider Ursula, which means "little bear" in Russian.

Literally: "Leader." Figuratively: "I own this dog park. Step aside."

An Old English surname, Tucker just sounds fun. It's ideal for a lively, loveable scamp who's always in a good mood (even when you're scolding him for stealing food).

As for the ladies, dog owners love names that end in -y and -a sounds — just like baby girls. These picks currently reign supreme, and they're oh-so-sweet.

If she were a cartoon character, she'd have bows in her hair and long, fluttery eyelashes. Yes, Bella translates to "beautiful," but this name would work for a scraggly mutt too if she has a gentle, serene personality.

Short for Lucia, this English name dates back to the Middle Ages. This one seems fit for a sweet, goofy gal — or for any Beatles-loving owner.

The flowers themselves symbolize innocence, purity, and cheerfulness. Basically, they're happy inspiration for a happy girl.

You can thank Chrissy Teigen and J.K. Rowling for popularizing this celestial name. In Roman mythology, Luna was the goddess responsible for the moon.

Lola's actually a diminutive for Dolores, but it sounds a lot more spunky than the latter. Plus, she automatically has her own catchy song thanks to the Kinks.

Sure, it's a cute word, but the real appeal of this name? Think of all the rhymes you can invent for her, putting "Sadie" together with "lady!"

Molly brings to mind a total sweetheart through-and-through. Just think of Molly Ringwald, Molly Weasley, and even Milly-Molly-Mandy.

Another diminutive form of the name Margaret, this name fits a friendly, bouncing herding dog.