What's in a name for your furry friend? Just like baby names, the popularity of dog names in Canada shifts each year, influenced by pop culture, traditions, and new trends. One year, the dog park might be full of dogs named Ollie, only for a wave of Lunas to appear a few years later.
In 2025, Canadian dog owners showed clear preferences for certain monikers, according to a new report from the online pet supply retailer and pharmacy Chewy. The company analyzed data from the profiles users create for their pets to identify the most popular dog names across the country.
The Top 10 Most Popular Dog Names
Ciara Lavelle, a pet expert at Chewy, explained to HuffPost that when users sign up for an account, they input their dog's name, birthdate, and breed. By examining this aggregated information, the company can spot which names are trending. The top 10 dog names for both male and female dogs in Canada this year are:
- Bella
- Luna
- Daisy
- Lucy
- Max
- Charlie
- Bailey
- Cooper
- Buddy
- Sadie
These classic names continue to hold a special place in the hearts of Canadian pet owners, with Charlie and Luna standing out as particularly popular choices.
Rising Trends: From Food to 'Wicked'
Beyond the top 10 list, some more unique names are gaining significant traction. According to Lavelle, there are some really fun dog name trends emerging this year. One major trend is food-inspired names.
Cheeto and Pickles have both risen about 25% in popularity since 2024, showing a playful side to pet naming. Even more dramatically, the name Brisket is up 68%.
Pop culture is another powerful source of inspiration. The release of the film Wicked in November 2024 has had a direct impact. The name Elphaba, for the Wicked Witch of the West, has grown in popularity by a staggering 200% since last year, along with its nickname, Elphie. The name for the Good Witch, Glinda, has also seen a 175% increase in 2025.
Other pop culture moments are influencing choices. Lavelle noted a 15% bump in dogs named Ozzy, likely in homage to the late musician Ozzy Osbourne. The meme-famous season of The White Lotus also seems to have left its mark. The name Piper for pets is up 33% since last year, a potential nod to the show's viral Piper, no! moment.
Expert Tips for Naming Your New Dog
Choosing the perfect name for a new canine family member can feel like a big decision. Lavelle suggests drawing inspiration from your dog's colour, personality, or your favourite movies and musicians.
It's also crucial to remember that you will be using this name in public. You'll be calling it out at the dog park and using it at the vet's office, so if you choose something silly, be prepared to own it, Lavelle advised.
Ultimately, the most important rule is to pick a respectful and inoffensive name. No matter what you choose, your dog will love it, Lavelle reassured because it's how they will be called by their favourite person.
