Naming a pet in 2025 was more than just picking something cute—it became a cultural signal about vibes, nostalgia, and what’s trending in pop culture right now. From timeless classics that never go out of style to fresh, buzzworthy names inspired by movies and media, pet parents got creative this year. Rover’s 2025 pet name trend report shows how influences from entertainment, food culture, and fandoms helped shape naming choices across millions of dogs and cats—revealing what pet owners really love to call their furry family members.
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Whether you’re thinking about adopting a new companion or just curious about naming trends, these 15 names dominated the charts in 2025—each one with its own cultural backstory and appeal. From celestial monikers to characters that defined the year, these names tell a story about the pets we adore and the world we live in.
1. Bella
Bella’s glamorous, elegant sound helped it stay among the most popular names for pets in 2025, especially for dogs and cats with a bit of diva energy. The name’s literal meaning—“beautiful”—makes it an instantly flattering choice that pet parents love repeating. Its popularity also spans generations of pets, working as well for feisty puppies as it does for poised adult cats. In a pet naming world where affection and appearance often guide decisions, Bella checks all the boxes.
What keeps Bella in the spotlight is how effortlessly it bridges sophistication with warmth. It’s equally suited to a tiny cuddle bug curled in your lap or a majestic feline surveying their kingdom from the windowsill. Social media presence plays a role too, as Bella frequently appears in viral posts and profiles, reinforcing its status as a top-tier pet name. For many, Bella is more than a name—it’s a declaration of love and admiration.
2. Olive
Olive closed out the top trending names of 2025 with its understated, retro charm that feels just right for pets with personality and poise. The name strikes a balance between classic and quirky, giving animals a distinctive identity that stands out without feeling forced. It works especially well for pets with cool, calm energy or those whose looks are as smooth and chic as their name. In a year where pet names blended nostalgia with modern style, Olive emerged as a sophisticated favorite.
Olive also mirrors a broader trend toward nature-inspired names that feel grounded and tasteful. It’s the kind of name that feels elegant when whispered and joyful when shouted across the yard. For many pet owners, Olive captures the essence of a beloved companion in a way that feels both timeless and trendy. Its charm is subtle but enduring, making it a perfect 2025 finish.
3. Charlie
Charlie remains a top choice in 2025 for pets who exude friendliness and charisma, appearing near the top of both dog and cat name charts. It’s approachable and familiar, giving pets a human-like identity that feels comforting and relational. Because of its wide appeal, Charlie works for playful pups, dignified older dogs, and curious cats with personality to spare. The flexibility of the name is a big reason it stays trending year after year.
In a cultural landscape that values personality and charm, Charlie feels like a name that instantly communicates warmth and presence. It’s the kind of name people trust—like a neighbor you’ve known forever—yet it also fits pets whose quirks make them unforgettable. Pet naming data shows that Charlie’s popularity is consistent across regions, ages, and animal types, making it a truly universal favorite. As pet owners continue to prioritize names that reflect both character and connection, Charlie is likely to remain a go-to choice.
4. Daisy
Daisy remains among the most popular pet names of 2025, often chosen for pets with sunny, spirited personalities. Evoking images of fresh flowers and carefree spring days, it brings a light-hearted feel to any pet’s identity. The name works beautifully for playful pups who bounce through life with unstoppable energy, as well as for cats who act like little rays of sunshine. It’s an infectious name that often elicits smiles from everyone who hears it.
Beyond its feel-good vibe, Daisy has staying power because it feels personal—like a pet who truly brightens a home deserves a name that reflects that joy. It’s whimsical without being overly cutesy, making it a favorite among owners who want a name that feels both sweet and grounded. Daisy also pairs well with nicknames (Daze, Day, Dee), adding to its versatility. In a year where emotional connection was paramount, Daisy captured the hearts of many.
5. Lucy
Lucy soared in popularity alongside the classics, particularly among cat owners, where her playful, bright energy feels right at home. Its friendly, upbeat tone makes it a go-to choice for pets who seem eager to join every activity. Lucy’s enduring trendiness reflects how pet names often mirror human baby-naming trends, bringing a sense of familiarity and affection into the home. Because it suits so many temperaments and personalities, it remains a top pick for owners nationwide.
The name’s versatility also shows in its adaptability to nicknames like “Lu,” “Lulu,” and “Lucky,” which pet parents often use affectionately. This ability to evolve with your pet’s personality is one reason Lucy resonates so strongly in naming culture. Whether your pet is a mischievous feline acrobat or a loyal pup with endless enthusiasm, Lucy feels like a match. It’s a name that continues to feel fresh even as it becomes more beloved.
6. Max
Max remains one of 2025’s most beloved pet names, particularly for male dogs, where its strong, confident tone is a perennial favorite. The name strikes a perfect balance between bold and approachable—suggesting loyalty, charm, and classic appeal all at once. It’s the kind of name that fits a big-hearted retriever as easily as a feisty little terrier. In pet naming culture, Max serves as a reliable favorite that feels both timeless and personal.
What helps Max keep its popularity is how natural it feels when calling it across a backyard or a living room. It’s uncomplicated, easy to remember, and carries a certain solid energy that’s hard to replicate. Max also pairs well with many last-name style tags (Maximus, Maxie, Maxi), giving owners flexibility as their pet grows. In a world of pop culture influences, Max stays rooted in classic simplicity.
7. Leo
Leo has risen as a favorite in 2025, especially for cats with regal or adventurous personalities that match the name’s celestial and lion-like associations. Its short, strong sound gives pets an air of confidence and charisma. Leo also reflects a broader trend toward names that evoke power, nobility, and bold flair—think animals who carry themselves like tiny kings or queens. Whether it’s a sleek black cat or a spirited pup, Leo brings a dash of grandeur.
The name also resonates with pet owners who love names with symbolic meaning—Leo evokes strength and illumination, perfect for pets who seem larger than life. Its popularity continues to grow as people look beyond traditional pet names toward something a bit more striking. Leo’s cross-species appeal (cats, dogs, even exotic pets) further explains its trendiness. In a year filled with choice overload, Leo cut through with confident simplicity.
8. Coco
Coco maintained its place among 2025’s top trending names as a stylish choice that feels both chic and endearing. It works particularly well for smaller animals or pets with a sleek, fashionable vibe that mirrors the name’s association with luxury and sweetness. Coco also taps into the food-inspired naming trend, offering a playful twist without feeling gimmicky. Pet owners love names that feel like expressions of personality, and Coco fits that niche perfectly.
Another reason Coco stayed trendy is its adaptability—it’s just as fitting for cats who lounge like royalty as it is for tiny dogs with big attitudes. The name sounds light, fun, and affectionate, fitting pets that enjoy attention and affection. It’s a name that also translates well on social media, where pets named Coco often garner likes for their stylish persona. Coco is simplicity with effortless flair.
9. Cooper
Cooper has rapidly climbed the 2025 name charts as a friendly, upbeat choice with a dash of sophistication. Its appeal lies in its balance of approachable sound and a subtle classic vibe that makes it feel personal rather than generic. Cooper works beautifully for pets who act like loyal companions or those with a slightly goofy, lovable streak. It’s the kind of name that feels respectful and affectionate at the same time.
In a pet culture that values identity and individuality, Cooper feels like a name with character. It’s particularly popular among dog owners who want a name that feels timeless but not too serious. Cooper also generates easy nicknames like Coop or Coops, which many pet parents adore using daily. As more people embrace meaningful names over random picks, Cooper’s blend of charm and stability keeps its momentum strong.
10. Bailey
Bailey remains a top contender in 2025, appealing to owners who want a warm, reliable name that feels like family. It’s a name that sounds friendly, comforting, and adaptable to pets of all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Whether it’s a cuddly dog who wakes you each morning or a curious cat who inspects every room, Bailey fits naturally into daily life. Pet naming data shows its popularity consistently ranks high across regions.
Part of Bailey’s charm is its simplicity—it’s easy to say, fun to repeat, and effortlessly rolls off the tongue. It also has a slight human-name vibe that makes pets feel even more like beloved family members. In a year when connection and companionship were central themes, Bailey’s cozy, familiar sound resonated with many pet owners. It’s a name that feels like a warm hug every time you say it.
11. Sadie
Sadie continued to be beloved in 2025 as a sweet, classic name with a gentle feel that suits affectionate pets. It’s especially popular for dogs and cats that show loyalty and warmth in their everyday behavior. The name carries a soft, melodic quality that makes it pleasant to call out in parks or cozy living rooms alike. Pet parents often choose Sadie for animals that feel like lifelong companions.
Its popularity reflects a broader trend toward names that feel personal, meaningful, and emotionally resonant rather than purely trendy. Sadie also pairs well with a wide range of personalities, from mischievous to mellow, making it highly versatile. Many owners also choose Sadie because it works across generations—just as suitable for puppies as it is for older pets. It’s a classic for a reason: warm, affectionate, and timeless.
12. Stella
Stella’s rise in 2025 reflects the continued popularity of names with celestial or elegant overtones. Its slightly vintage sound gives pets a distinctive identity that feels refined yet approachable. Stella also carries a bit of star power—making pets named Stella sound like they’re bound for the spotlight. In an era where pet culture intersects heavily with social media personalities, names that feel memorable and stylish gained traction.
Stella also has the advantage of sounding affectionate and strong at the same time, which many owners find irresistible. It’s particularly fitting for pets who act like the boss of the household or who command attention without trying. Its versatility across cats, dogs, and even exotic pets has expanded its appeal. For many, Stella became a 2025 trend that feels both classic and fresh.
13. Oliver
Oliver’s place on the 2025 pet name charts is anchored in its charm and storybook personality. The name feels timeless yet playful, giving pets an identity that’s both dignified and mischievous. It’s especially popular among cat owners who want something sophisticated without being pretentious. The name’s adaptability to nicknames like Ollie or Olly adds to its warm, affectionate appeal.
Oliver also benefits from the broader trend of human-like names for pets, which strengthens the emotional bond between owners and their animals. It’s the kind of name that feels personal, not generic, and sticks with you as the pet grows. Whether your pet is a curious kitten or a laid-back pup, Oliver gives them a sense of character from the start. Its steady rise in 2025 reflects how cultural preferences are blending comfort with personality in pet naming.
14. Rosie
Rosie remains a beloved choice in 2025 for its sweet, cheerful personality that captures the joy pets bring into our lives. It’s a name that feels warm and nostalgic, often chosen for pets with affectionate, spirited temperaments. Rosie also has grandmother-name charm, giving it a comforting, timeless quality that resonates with many owners. In a year where emotional connection was a major theme, Rosie’s gentle tone made it a go-to choice.
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The name’s versatility makes it a great fit for both cats and dogs, and it pairs beautifully with nicknames like Rose, Ro, or Rosie-Posie. Many pet parents choose Rosie because it feels personal and familiar, almost like naming a treasured family member. Its continued popularity reflects a broader trend toward names that feel meaningful and heartfelt. For pets who bring softness and joy into every day, Rosie feels just right.
15. Luna
Luna continued its reign as the most popular pet name in 2025, topping lists for both cats and dogs across the U.S. Its celestial connotations give it a swoon-worthy elegance, evoking images of moonlit nights and enchanting energy that pet parents can’t resist. This name’s soft, lyrical sound works equally well for a mischievous kitten or a soulful rescue pup, making it an incredibly versatile choice. The enduring appeal of Luna also reflects a broader trend toward nature-inspired, mystical names that feel both whimsical and timeless.
Despite its popularity, Luna doesn’t feel overused in daily life because it resonates emotionally with owners—many report that it captures the essence of their pet’s personality almost immediately. From tiny lap cats to adventurous retrievers, pets named Luna often carry themselves with a quiet confidence that matches the name’s serene aura. Pet influencers and social media trends have also fueled Luna’s continued dominance, with countless viral videos showcasing stars of the animal world bearing the name. In a year filled with wild naming experimentation, Luna’s steady charm proves that classics never truly fade.