100+ Unique Dog Names for Your New Pup

Dogs are popular pets. So it’s no surprise that certain canine names have become popular, too. Pet parents seek names that reflect their pup’s individuality, and many even desire a name that’s as truly unique and special as their dog. Choosing a unique name for your dog is a great way to honor their distinct personality, but it can also show off your personal flare.

This is why the dog-adoring team at Adopt a Pet put their heads together and came up with this list of the coolest, most unique dog names ever. Whether you’re drawn to obscure historical figures, to rare botanical terms, or to quirky pop culture references — there’s something for everyone, below.

Unique female names

Looking for a strong name that reflects your pup’s fierce loyalty? Or perhaps you’d like something elegant to match her beauty? Or maybe you’d like a quirky choice to highlight her playful side. The names below will ensure your female dog stands out in a sea of names like “Princess” and “Daisy.” 

Elegant and sophisticated

Perfect for dogs who carry themselves with grace, these names immediately suggest your pup is a distinguished girl.

• Esme

• Ophelia

• Lyra

• Celesta

• Delphine

Bold and adventurous 

Ideal for spirited pups, these names embody the adventurous nature of a curious, energetic female dog. 

• Indie

• Sable

• Zella

• Freya

• Nova

Quirky and fun

If your dog’s personality always makes you smile (even when they’re chewing on your shoes), try these playful names. 

• Zippy

• Fable

• Marigold

• Cricket

• Nixie

Unique male dog names

These distinctive names will help your pup stand out in the best way, no matter his personality. You won’t find a Max or Buddy around here. 

Regal and strong

These names evoke a sense of power and presence for dogs who exude confidence. 

• Atlas

• Dante

• Odin

• Baron

• Titan

Playful and energetic

For dogs who are always on the move and full of energy, these spirited names reflect an outgoing personality. 

• Rizzo

• Banjo

• Fig

• Zeke

• Jax

Unusual yet masculine

If you’re looking for a unique twist for a male dog with offbeat charm, check out these names.

• Django — Bold, rhythmic, and free

• Zephyr — Gentle, breezy spirit

• Huxley — Curious, quirky intellect

• Remus — Loyal, mythic protector

• Osiris — Regal, enigmatic guardian

Unique names for small dogs

Small dogs often have the biggest personalities. Whether you want to emphasize their tiny size or nod to their larger-than-life presence, these choices can help. 

Tiny yet mighty

These names may sound small, but pack a punch for a small dog with a bold demeanor. 

• Pixie

• Nimbus

• Dash

• Toto

Cute and memorable

These names have a charming quality that’s ideal for small dogs with a sweet, lovable personality. 

• Button

• Peep

• Thimble

• Tinker

• Noodle

Unexpected choices

Perfect for small dogs with big confidence, these names bring a sense of grandeur to a pup with a small frame. 

• Titan

• Everest

• Diesel

• Blaze

• Jumbo

Unique names for medium dogs

Medium-sized dogs often strike the perfect balance of strength, agility, and warmth. Many of these dogs are working breeds, and their names can reflect this versatility, with options that are unique but not overpowering. 

Classic but unique

These names feel timeless with a touch of originality, ideal for medium dogs with a steady, loyal demeanor. 

• Piper

• Hugo

• Sable

• Jasper

• Cleo

Unique and gender-neutral

These are great for medium dogs who need a stylish, adaptable name for any personality type. 

• Storm

• Lumen

• River

• Scout

• Aspen

Nature-inspired names

For the medium dog with a big sense of adventure, consider a name that celebrates the natural world. 

• Bramble

• Cedar

• Fern

• Birch

• Moss

Unique dog names for big dogs

Large dogs have a commanding presence, and their name can reflect strength or their surprisingly gentle demeanor. These distinctive names are suitable for gentle giants or noble protectors. 

Strong and majestic

Ideal for large dogs with a regal air, such as Irish Wolfhounds, these names reflect power and majesty. 

• Magnus — Great and majestic, a name rooted in kings and conquerors

• Valkyrie — Fierce, mythic warrior who chooses the fallen in Norse lore

• Atlas — Enduring Titan who held the heavens in Greek mythology

• Titan — Gigantic and powerful beings from ancient Greek myths

• Rocco — Saintly protector with a history of resilience and healing

Soft and gentle large breeds

Sometimes, a softer name better suits a bigger dog with a kind-hearted personality, such as the Pit Bull (a.k.a. a nanny dog).

• Cloud

• Bear

• Willow

• Shiloh

• Fozzie

Historical and heroic

Inspired by history and lore, these names are great for dogs with a noble stature. 

• Achilles — The famed warrior known for his unmatched strength

• Xena — Warrior Princess, a modern symbol of bravery and justice

• Odin — The all-seeing Norse god of wisdom, war, and poetry

• Hercules — Legendary demi-god celebrated for his incredible strength

• Frey — Norse god of prosperity, fertility, and peace

Cute and rare dog names by theme

Need to pick a name before your pup’s first vet visit? If you’re seeking a truly one-of-a-kind moniker, these themed ideas offer a range of inspiration. From nature and mythology to food and pop culture, you’re sure to find something that stands out. 

Nature-inspired names

These rare names are for dogs with a free spirit who love the outdoors. 

• Cypress

• Solstice

• Lagoon

• Embre

• Cascade

• Pebble

Myths and legends

These names draw on ancient myths and magical legends, perfect for an independent, mysterious type or a bold presence. (And if you need help dealing with that bold presence? Check out our puppy guide!) 

• Nyx — Primordial Greek goddess of the night and mystery

• Fenrir — Monstrous wolf from Norse mythology destined to bring chaos

• Juno — Roman queen of the gods, protector of women and marriage

• Circe — Enchanting Greek sorceress known for her transformative magic

• Morrigan — Celtic goddess of war, fate, and prophecy

Food-inspired names

These names are playful, and perfect for a dog with a sweet and quirky personality. 

• Biscuit

• Mochi

• Olive

• Truffle

• Churro

Based on colors or patterns

For dogs with distinctive appearances, these names reflect their beautiful coats. 

• Sable (for a dark brown or black dog)

• Speckles (for a spotted dog)

• Copper (for a reddish-brown dog)

• Blue (for a gray or blue-toned coat)

• Latte (for a creamy light brown coat)

Literary and historical names

For book lovers and history buffs, these names are inspired by famous figures and characters that bring an intellectual flare to your pup’s name. 

• Brontë —The Brontë sisters, literary icons of gothic tales and fierce heroines

• Tesla — (Nikola) The visionary inventor who electrified the modern world

• Tennyson — (Alfred) Poet laureate of timeless beauty and deep reflection

• Poe — (Edgar Allan) The master of dark, eerie storytelling

• Sappho — The ancient poet who captured love’s essence

Whimsical and fantasy-inspired

Perfect for dogs who bring a sense of magic to your life, or for fans of otherworldly fiction.

• Fizz

• Rune

• Wisp

• Lyric

• Echo

• Sirius

Sports and athletes

Whether you run, jump, and play together — or your pup chills on the sidelines during the big game — these names are great for active pups or sports-loving families. 

• Jordan

• Blitz

• Serena

• Ace

• Jeter

• Dash

• Kobe

• Rookie

• Shaq

• Puck

Commonly asked questions

Should I adopt a young or old dog? 

Deciding whether to adopt a young or old dog depends on your lifestyle and the type of companionship you’re seeking. In a nutshell, a puppy will demand a lot more time and attention compared to a mature dog, which usually has been trained and exhibits a clear personality. There’s no wrong choice, but make sure to do your research on the differences between adopting a puppy and a senior dog. Also, be sure to ask the rescue or shelter about things like separation anxiety, and any other issues your pup may have exhibited while waiting for their forever home. 

Can I change my adopted dog’s name? 

In most cases, yes. It’s perfectly acceptable to change your adopted dog’s name for a variety of reasons. Keep in mind that getting them to learn their new name may take a bit of time and consistent training. 

What is a unique dog name?

A unique dog name can be inspired by many things, such as pop culture references or mythical figures, but if you really want to turn heads, try using a typically human name for your pup. Using a name like Heather or Jeff for your pup is sure to garner a few laughs, and showcase their place as a full-fledged family member. 

What factors should I consider when naming my dog? 

When naming your dog, there are a few factors to consider. It’s best to settle on a name that doesn’t sound like a cue and, ideally, is just a few syllables long. Choose a name you feel comfortable calling in public and around friends and family.