Rover's list of the year's top names riffs on pop culture, cartoons and even a favorite food

These Are the Most Popular Pet Names of 2024—Did Your Furry Friend’s Name Make the List?

Choosing your pet’s name is a matter of inspiration—and maybe some friendly family infighting. Once it’s decided, we all think our pet has the cutest and most appropriate moniker, period. But while Django (my rescue pup’s name!) is definitely tops, it’s super fun to learn what other folks have landed on for their beloved cats and dogs.
Luckily, Rover is at the ready with its 12th annual release of the most popular pet names and trends. The largest online source for all things pet-related studied millions of dog and cat names submitted by pet parents for the anticipated 2024 report. Read on to learn what’s hot now in the world of our furry friends.
Get Reader’s Digest’s Read Up newsletter for more pets, humor, travel, tech and fun facts all week long.
What are the top pet-name trends of 2024?
As you might expect, popular TV shows and musical icons have impacted our pets’ names in a big way this year. But surprisingly, many of us are also voting with our stomachs, bestowing food names on some cute kittens and puppies. Check out a few of the cat- and dog-name trends Rover spotted this year.
Trendy toons
Pets can be goofballs, making a cartoon character’s name an ideal pick. This year, everyone’s favorite animated dog was the top trend for both dogs (up 58%) and cats (soaring 122%). Here’s a hint: He’s an Australian breed called the blue heeler. That’s right! It’s Bluey, the eponymous star of the hit TV show for kids. The name Bluey had the highest rate of growth in all categories when comparing 2023 and 2024 data.
Other trendy cartoon-inspired names include Judo, Ferb, SpongeBob and Gary.
Tay for the win
As Taylor Swift’s insanely popular Eras tour wraps up this week, the famous cat lover earns a place of distinction with felines, naturally, and canines. Her name climbed about 460% for both animals.
Beyoncé, Sabrina, Gaga, Halsey and Cardi B are other pop-star-approved girl names trending with dogs and cats.
Say cheese!
Who knew dairy names would be so popular? Pet lovers, of course. The hiss-terical cat name Provolone is leading the trend, up a massive 509%. Dogs have been dubbed the same Italian name, along with Babybel, though their top moniker here is Calzone, that cheese-filled turnover.
Still hungry? Burger, Dumpling and Pork Chop are also in the mix.
What are the most popular dog names of 2024?
Who’s a good boy? It’s Charlie! This dog name is the most popular pick for male pups, a title it’s held for two years running. For female dogs, we’re over the moon for Luna, which reached No. 1 status. Here are the complete lists of trending girl and boy dog names:
Top 10 male dog names
- Charlie
- Max
- Milo
- Cooper
- Buddy
- Teddy
- Rocky
- Bear
- Leo
- Duke
Top 10 female dog names
- Luna
- Bella
- Daisy
- Lucy
- Lily
- Lola
- Zoe
- Sadie
- Coco
- Bailey
What are the most popular cat names of 2024?
There’s a lot of crossover on both sets of lists this time around, as Luna is also the top name for female cats for the second year in a row. As for boy kitties, Milo reigns supreme—the name finally defeated Oliver, which was in the No. 1 slot for five consecutive years. Check out the other top cat names for 2024.
Top 10 male cat names
- Milo
- Oliver
- Leo
- Charlie
- Loki
- Max
- Simba
- Jack
- Ollie
- Jasper
Top 10 female cat names
- Luna
- Lily
- Bella
- Lucy
- Callie
- Nala
- Kitty
- Willow
- Cleo
- Daisy
Why trust us
At Reader’s Digest, we’re committed to producing high-quality content by writers with expertise and experience in their field in consultation with relevant, qualified experts. We rely on reputable primary sources, including government and professional organizations and academic institutions as well as our writers’ personal experiences where appropriate. We verify all facts and data, back them with credible sourcing and revisit them over time to ensure they remain accurate and up to date. Read more about our team, our contributors and our editorial policies.
Source:
- Rover: “Rover Releases Most Popular Pet Names and Trends of 2024”