Most Popular Dog Names of 2025

Choosing a name for a new four-legged family member is a big milestone. It is the first step in a lifelong bond, and as the Pet Circle data shows, Australian pet parents are leaning heavily into names that reflect just how much dogs have become "fur children."

Comparing the top 10 names for all dogs versus the specific list for puppies in 2025 reveals some fascinating shifts in how we are naming our pets.

1. The reign of "Luna"

Luna remains the undisputed heavyweight champion across both lists. This name has dominated Australian pet registries for several years. Its popularity is driven by its "soft" phonetic sound (ending in a vowel) and its celestial, cross-species appeal. It is short, easy to yell at the park, and clearly remains the go-to choice for new puppy owners.

2. The rise of "cottagecore" and nature names

While the general dog list features established classics like Ruby and Bella, the puppy list shows a shift toward what is known as "cottagecore" or nature-inspired names.

• Maple and Winnie are new entries in the puppy top 10.
• These names feel warm, nostalgic, and gentle, reflecting a desire for names that sound "sweet" rather than "tough."

3. Humanisation is here to stay

Almost every name on both lists is a human name. Over the years, we have seen the transition from "Fido" and "Rover" to names you would likely find on a kindergarten roll.

• Teddy has surged to the #2 spot for puppies. This likely correlates with the continued popularity of "Oodle" breeds (like Cavoodles and Groodles) that resemble living teddy bears.
• Murphy appearing on the puppy list indicates a trend toward "surname-style" names, which often feel distinguished yet friendly.

4. Phasing out the old guard

Names like Max, Molly, and Ruby appear on the general dog list but have dropped out of the top 10 for puppies. This suggests these names may be reaching "legacy" status - common among older dogs but being slowly replaced by newer trends like Maple or Murphy as a new generation of pet parents takes over.

5. The "two-syllable rule"

Interestingly, every single name on both lists follows the two-syllable rule (except for Max). From a clinical and training perspective, two-syllable names are ideal. They provide a distinct inflection that is easier for a dog to distinguish from background noise or one-syllable commands like "sit" or "stay."