Boy Dog Names: 120 Strong, Cute & Unique Ideas
Naming a new puppy is supposed to be exciting… but when you’re 300 names deep on Pinterest and still no closer to the one? Yeah, it can feel like choosing a Netflix show — overwhelming and slightly soul-crushing.
If you’re spiraling between “Rex” and “Sir Wigglebottom III,” don’t worry. You’re not alone. Finding a name that’s strong, adorable, and a little bit unique (without sounding like you’re yelling out a Starbucks order) is an art.
When Monty, my little Westie tornado, came into my life, the name decision was made for me. He strutted in like he already had a monogrammed towel set, and honestly, it saved me from two weeks of debating whether “Pickles” was too quirky. 😅
Today, I’m serving up 120 boy puppy name ideas that are strong, sweet, and just the right amount of “where did you find that gem?!” (If you want even more help picking the perfect name, don’t miss my guide: Dog Names Made Easy: A Simple Guide to Naming Your New Pup)
Ready? (I mean, ready-ish… decision fatigue is real.)
Strong Boy Dog Names 💪
Need a name that says, “Yeah, I’m small, but I can definitely steal your sandwich if I feel like it”? These strong and confident picks are perfect for pups with big-dog energy.
Bold choices:
- Atlas
- Diesel
- Titan
- Maverick
- Hunter
- Ace
- Thor
- Rocky
- Bear
- Bruno
- Duke
- King
- Rambo
- Gunner
- Sarge
- Tank
- Blade
- Chief
- Otto
Real talk: If Monty had been named “Bruno,” he probably would’ve still barked at falling leaves. Some things you can’t tough-name your way out of.
Cute Boy Puppy Names 🥹
Sometimes you look at that tiny fluffball snoozing on your lap and realize: you need a name that could make a grown man squeal.
Adorable vibes:
- Teddy
- Ollie
- Finn
- Milo
- Alfie
- Joey
- Louie
- Chip
- Toby
- Archie
- Frankie
- Georgie
- Cody
- Ziggy
- Remy
- Percy
- Chester
- Dusty
- Buddy
(If you’re into aesthetic or short-name vibes, check out 90 Cute Dog Names (Aesthetic, Unique, Short & Country)!)
Pro tip: Two-syllable names are often easier for puppies to recognize — and they’re super fun to shout at the dog park. (“TOE-BEEEEE!”)
Unique Boy Puppy Names 🌟
Want a name that sets your pup apart from the sea of “Bens” and “Charlies”? (No offense, Ben and Charlie.)
Rare finds:
- Zephyr
- Cosmo
- Orion
- Rocco
- Jett
- Banjo
- Loki
- Arlo
- Apollo
- Bodhi
- Onyx
- Huxley
- Indigo
- Quest
- Phoenix
- Cairo
- Sterling
- Timber
- Wilder
- Sheldon
FYI, naming your dog “Ziggy” may or may not unlock free rockstar energy. Monty would be very jealous.
Food-Inspired Boy Puppy Names 🍩
Because honestly, dogs = food = life.
Delicious picks:
- Mochi
- Nacho
- Biscuit
- Waffles
- Pickles
- Beans
- Oreo
- Peanut
- Churro
- Toast
- Brownie
- Muffin
- Noodles
- Tater
- Jellybean
- S’mores
- Maple
- Dumpling
- Cocoa
- Pretzel
- Ketchup
Warning: Naming your dog after food may dramatically increase your snack cravings. (Speaking from experience.)
Adventure-Inspired Boy Puppy Names 🌍
For the pup who’s ready to hike mountains… or at least attempt a 10-minute walk without demanding a carry. 🙄
Explorer vibes:
- Blaze
- River
- Scout
- Storm
- Canyon
- Dash
- Flint
- Summit
- Ocean
- Journey
- Forest
- Skye
- Jet
- Cliff
- Brooks
- Aspen
- Reef
- Ridge
- Horizon
- Harley
Honestly, “Scout” sounds way cooler than “Bob” when you’re yelling for them in the woods. Just saying.
20 More Boy Puppy Names You’ll Love
Still can’t decide? Here’s a bonus lightning round of name inspo:
- Gus
- Beau
- Jasper
- Leo
- Max
- Dexter
- Murphy
- Winston
- Reggie
- Clyde
- Odin
- Rufus
- Cash
- Porter
- Samson
- Hudson
- Theo
- Harvey
- Smudge
- Marley
(PS: Monty votes for “Winston” because it sounds very dignified… until he faceplants mid-zoomie.)
Final Bark: Pick a Name That Makes You Smile
At the end of the day, your dog’s name should make you happy every time you say it. Pick something fun, meaningful, or just plain adorable — whatever feels right for you and your pup.
And hey, if you find yourself shouting “Waffles!” across a park someday, know you’re among friends. 🐾
Happy naming!
(If you’re curious about even more expert advice, check out this helpful dog naming guide from Rover).
FAQs About Boy Dog Names
What are some popular boy puppy names right now?
Names like Finn, Milo, Leo, and Bear are super trendy! (Check my linked guides for even more ideas.)
How do I pick the right name for my puppy?
Choose something easy to say, that feels natural when you shout it, and fits your pup’s personality.
Can I change my puppy’s name if I don’t like it later?
Absolutely! Puppies adapt quickly with consistent praise, treats, and practice.
Should I avoid human baby names for my dog?
It’s fine, but you might meet a toddler with the same name. (A little awkward. 😂)
How long should a puppy’s name be?
One or two syllables are ideal — easier for training and daily life.
Photo by Katia Oleksa
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