Luna Leads the Pack: America’s Most Popular Dog Names

With an estimated 68 million pet dogs across the United States, it’s no surprise that certain names keep popping up at dog parks and vet offices.

The most popular dog name in the country right now is Luna, according to U.S. News & World Report. The name is especially common along the West Coast, in major cities on the East Coast, throughout Florida, and in several Western states.

Close behind Luna are other familiar favorites. Ranking in order, starting at number two, are Bella, Charlie, Max, Daisy, Lucy, Coco, Milo, and Cooper.

Many of the top names are short, easy to say, and end in vowel sounds — a style experts say dogs respond to well.

But while some names dominate nationally, certain states show strong local preferences.

Reader’s Digest reports that Wisconsin dog owners favor the name Daisy. In Nebraska, Max is the top choice. South Carolina leans toward Teddy, while Arkansas prefers Chloe. In Utah, Moose is a popular pick, and in Alaska, Winter tops the list — a nod, perhaps, to the state’s snowy landscape.

The popularity of certain names can reflect trends in pop culture, geography, and even the weather. Names like Luna and Bella have roots in Latin languages, while others like Moose or Winter feel more regional.

No matter the trend, one thing is clear: Americans love their dogs — and they put plenty of thought into what to call them.

From Luna to Cooper, the names may change over time, but the bond between owners and their four-legged companions remains the same.