If you’ve just adopted a playful pup or a curious kitten, chances are you’ve already wrestled with the age-old question: What should I call them? Well, the latest reports for 2025 are here, and the results are both heartwarming and, in some cases, surprising.
At the very top? No shocker there—it’s Luna, once again taking the crown as the most popular name for both cats and dogs across the U.S. and beyond.
Why “Luna” Still Rules the Pet World
There’s something magical about the name Luna. It means “moon” in Latin, and pet parents everywhere can’t seem to resist its charm. Part of the reason might be its soft, melodic sound—easy to call out in the park or whisper to a sleepy cat.
Pop culture plays a role too. Think Luna Lovegood from Harry Potter or the celestial references all over Instagram and TikTok. The name feels mystical, yet approachable, and clearly, it has struck a lasting chord.
The Rest of the Pack
Of course, Luna doesn’t hog the spotlight alone. According to studies from platforms like TrustedHousesitters and Chewy, here are the other names dominating 2025:
- Bella – Still a timeless favorite, likely boosted by its meaning (“beautiful” in Italian).
- Lucy – Short, classic, and adorable—no wonder it’s holding strong.
- Charlie – Works for both boys and girls, and people love its friendly, everyday vibe.
- Daisy – A sweet, floral name that’s cheerful and bright.
Following closely are Max, Rosie, Lola, Lily, and Leo—all names you’d just as easily find in a kindergarten classroom as you would at a dog park.
Cat Lovers Aren’t So Different
If you think cat owners get more creative, think again. Feline names mirror many dog trends. Luna tops the cat charts, too, with Bella, Daisy, and Leo also making appearances. It seems both dog and cat parents are reaching for the same mix of cosmic, cute, and classic.
What’s Driving These Trends?
A few patterns explain why these names keep winning hearts year after year:
- Human baby names are crossing over. Today’s pets are considered part of the family, so it makes sense that names like Bella, Lucy, and Charlie overlap with the most popular baby names.
- Pop culture influence. Movies, TV, and social media leave their stamp. Just as Luna benefits from magical and celestial references, Bella carries echoes of the Twilight saga.
- Simplicity matters. Trainers often recommend names with one or two syllables because pets respond faster to them. A short, punchy name is easier for dogs and cats to recognize.
Quick Look: The 2025 Top 10
| Rank | Name | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Luna | Celestial, trendy, soft sound |
| 2 | Bella | Timeless, means “beautiful” |
| 3 | Lucy | Friendly, easy to call |
| 4 | Charlie | Gender-neutral, classic |
| 5 | Daisy | Bright, floral, cheerful |
| 6 | Max | Strong and simple |
| 7 | Rosie | Sweet, old-fashioned charm |
| 8 | Lola | Playful, fun to say |
| 9 | Lily | Gentle, nature-inspired |
| 10 | Leo | Regal yet trendy |
A Name Is More Than Just a Word
Choosing a name for a pet isn’t just about what sounds cute—it’s also about identity. For many, pets are family members, so giving them a name like Charlie or Lucy makes them feel even more connected.
Interestingly, experts also point out that the names we pick often reflect what we value. Floral names like Daisy and Lily point to a love of nature, while names like Luna show how fascinated we are with the stars and skies.
Final Thoughts
So, whether you’re cuddling a kitten or training a puppy, you now know the hottest names of 2025. While Luna continues its reign, names like Bella and Charlie remind us that simple, timeless choices never go out of style.
If you’re about to bring home a furry friend, consider starting your shortlist here—you might just find the perfect match.
✨ Your turn: Have you named your pet something from this list, or did you go completely unique? Share your pet’s name with us—we’d love to hear!
