The Top 20 Trending Dog Names of 2025

It sure has been…a year! To celebrate the ups and downs (and great movie musicals) of 2025, Rover has released a list of the top pet names with a focus on new and trending monikers — because keeping up with fads is a little more fun than seeing Charlie and Luna win “Most Popular Name” again.

The number one overall trending dog name? Elphie, which is up 244 percent. The name is a clear nod to Wicked’s Elphaba, as played by Cynthia Erivo in the movie franchise — who also happens to have two dogs not named in honor of the musical, a Maltipoo, Caleb, and a Yorkipoo, Gigi. Wicked premiered at the tail end of last year, and the highly-anticipated sequel will be released later this month. Another massively popular name, with an increase of 120 percent, is Rumi — the main character in this summer’s explosive animated hit KPop Demon Hunters. 

Meanwhile, for male dogs, Caesar is the number one trending male name — thanks, no doubt, to the new Gladiator 2 movie, or maybe even a little more likely, for being one of the three staples in the martini, fries, and salad “girl dinner.” Mufasa had a 119 percent increase and lands at number two. Could it be residual fervor from last year’s Mufasa-prequel? Or are the ‘90s kids who grew up with the OG Lion King getting new dogs? And speaking of movie animals, clocking in at number six is Knuckles, clearly a nod to the objective best member of Team Sonic. 

The most popular trending pet names this year are full of some fun surprises. Below are the top 10 trending female dog names and top 10 trending male dog names of 2025. 

The top 10 trending male dog names of 2025

10. Coffee

Nothing like a good cup of coffee to start your day — and if you have an energetic dog, it’s basically the same thing. 

9. Caine

This could be a reference to iconic British actor Michael Caine, or to the main antagonist of popular indie web series The Amazing Digital Circus. 

8. Tobias

Tobias has Biblical origins, and it’s also the name of a beloved Arrested Development character. We’re not sure why this one’s surging in popularity, but it’s adorable to shout out anything so dignified-sounding at the dog park.

7. Dougie

Is “teach me how to dougie” back in the zeitgeist? 

6. Knuckles

Is there a reason Knuckles beat outs Sonic, Tails, and Shadow on this trending list? Yes, there is, and that reason is Knuckles is the best.

5. Gibby

We did not expect the iconic iCarly character to make this list, but you know what? We’re here for it.

4. Luther

There are many famous Luthers out there — from Idris Elba’s TV detective to the OG Martin Luther who started the protestant church. That said, Luther could be a good fit for police dogs...or dogs particularly dedicated to calling out religious corruption in 16th century Germany.

3. Oswald

Oswald is a Batman character, an adorable animated octopus, and a niche Disney cartoon. 

2. Mufasa

For the lion-like dogs! The name Mufasa is commanding and memorable, and also a nod to one of the most iconic Disney movies of all time. 

1. Caesar

It’s regal, distinct, and classic!

The top 10 trending female dog names of 2025

10. Daisy Mae 

This cute retro-sounding name happens to also be a popular Animal Crossing character who sells turnips. 

9. Shirley

Another retro moniker! This one means meadow, so it’s great for dogs who love to frolic in fields. 

8. Hunny

It’s not clear why “hunny” over the actual spelling of “honey” is trending, but hey, it’s cute! 

7. Rowan

A nature-themed name that also refers to red hair. Fitting for dogs with an auburn coat. 

6. Mable

Vintage names are all the rage for female dogs, it seems. Mable is a variation of the more common Mabel, and it means “lovable.”

5. Brookie

Now, this could be a nickname for Brooke — or it could refer to the popular brownie-cookie fusion desert.

4. Jelly Bean

Is your dog small and round? Jelly Bean is a great choice. 

3. Rumi

The main character of Netflix and Sony’s KPop Demon Hunters has long purple hair and an amazing singing voice. She also kicks demon butt. 

2. Tsuki

Tsuki means “moon” in Japanese. Considering how popular the name Luna is among female pets everywhere, it makes sense that new pet parents want to stick to the theme.

1. Elphie

Elphie soars to the top of the list, with a whopping 244 percent increase, truly defying gravity! It’s clearly a very popular choice. Nothing’s going to bring this name down!