Yahoo News The UK's 20 most popular dog and cat names - does yours feature?
Choosing a name for your new puppy or kitten can be as challenging as naming a baby.
Whether you prefer traditional names or something more contemporary, it's crucial to find the right fit. A recent study by Petsure has revealed the top 20 most popular names for cats and dogs, along with some tips on how to select the perfect moniker for your pet.
The list of popular names includes traditional options like Charlie and Molly, as well as modern choices such as Milo and Willow. Luna took the top spot.
The breed also often influences the choice of name. For instance, Teddy is the favourite for Cockapoos, likely due to their teddy bear-like appearance, and also for long-haired Ragdoll cats. Luna, meanwhile, is a popular choice across various breeds of cats and dogs, reports Wales Online.
Top 20 most popular dog and cat names in 2024
1. Luna.
2. Bella.
3. Milo.
4. Willow.
5. Poppy.
6. Teddy.
7. Lola.
8. Daisy.
9. Coco.
10. Rosie.
11. Nala.
12. Bailey.
13. Buddy.
14. Ruby.
15. Molly.
16. Bonnie.
17. Mabel.
18. Loki.
19. Charlie.
20. Millie.
Popular names for different dog breeds
Cockapoos: Teddy is the top choice for Cockapoos, likely because of their teddy-like appearance, followed by Bella and Luna. The top 10 are Teddy, Bella, Luna, Bailey, Poppy, Willow, Milo, Rosie, Winnie, and Bonnie.
Jack Russells: Jack Russell Terrier owners favour the name Bella, along with flower-themed names like Rosie and Daisy. Top 10 are Bella, Buddy, Lola, Daisy, Luna, Rosie, Poppy, Charlie, Toby, Milo.
For Cocker Spaniels, some celestial-inspired names like Luna and Willow have made it into the top 10. They are: Luna, Willow, Milo, Poppy, Bella, Bailey, Daisy, Cooper, Rosie and Bonnie.
Labrador Retrievers' owners seem to agree that their dog is their best friend, with Buddy being a popular name choice. Top 10: Luna, Willow, Milo, Buddy, Lola, Ruby, Bailey, Daisy, Mabel and Bella.
When it comes to naming German Shepherds, owners often delve into mythology, with names like Loki and Zeus being popular choices. Top 10: Luna, Bella, Bear, Loki, Lola, Max, Nala, Zeus, Willow and Shadow.
Golden Retriever parents also favour nature-inspired names, with Luna, Daisy, Willow, and Poppy being popular picks. Top 10: Luna, Bailey, Willow, Nala, Cooper, Milo, Teddy, Daisy, Bonnie and Poppy.
Staffie names are a fun mix in the top 10, from modern-sounding Blue to more traditional choices like Reggie. Top 10: Luna, Bella, Lola, Milo, Reggie, Blue, Daisy, Ruby, Skye, Rosie.
The most popular cat names by breed
Moggie cat: Like many dog breeds, the top name for our beloved moggies is also Luna. But did you also spot a popular sweet snack included in the top 10 list?
Top 10: Luna, Bella, Willow, Nala, Lola, Milo, Loki, Coco, Oreo and Poppy.
British shorthairs: Could British Shorthair owners be harking back to a certain Disney film? Nala and Simba are among the favourite names for this popular breed.
Top 10: Luna, Milo, Willow, Bella, Nala, Simba, Coco, Daisy, Molly and Mabel.
Bengal cat: The wild appearance of the Bengal coat may have inspired the top name choices of Leo and Simba for this exotic breed.
Top 10: Luna, Nala, Loki, Simba, Leo, Milo, Bella, Cleo, Lola and Willow.
Ragdoll cat: Known for their long silky coats, it's perhaps not surprising that Teddy is a popular choice for Ragdolls.
Top 10: Luna, Milo, Bella, Teddy, Coco, Lola, Willow, Loki, Lily and Blue.
How to choose a pet name
To assist new pet owners in choosing the perfect name, Allie from Petsure has offered three key things to consider. They said: "Choosing a name for your new pet is a special and personal experience, but can be a tough decision. So we've put together some suggestions to help any new pet parents out there."
Keep it short and sweet
"Giving your pet a short name with no more than two syllables could help with recall. A simple and concise name may also prevent any confusion with other words and phrases.
Wait until you get to know your pet
Your pet is an individual, so taking the time to learn their personality can help guide your name choice. Or you might want to pick a name based on a unique physical feature, such as unusual fur markings.
Give it a test run
Once you think you've settled on a name, give yourself time to try it out. Call your pet by that name for a few days and see how it feels.
Pay attention to how it sounds when you say it aloud and how your pet responds. This trial can help check if the chosen name feels just right for both you and your pet.
