Our new research* has found dog names will be shaped more than ever by popular culture in 2025, with 29% of dog owners stating internet memes will influence their decision. Over a quarter cite personal heroes (28%), and new TV shows and films (26%) as key inspiration for next year’s choices - differing from 2024’s naming decisions most often being inspired by family members or loved ones (23%).
The new research by Guide Dogs, which will help name next year’s generation of puppies in its Sponsor A Puppy scheme, shows that some unexpected names are likely to become next year’s top picks for our dogs.
Guide Dogs' Top 15 Dog Name Predictions for 2025:
Billie
Truffle
Taylor
Bunny
Cole
Donald
Travis
Jude
Lasso
Darcy
Harris
Sabrina
Noel
Ken
Clark
Just under one in five believe that music tours and popular artists (19%) will play a key factor (compared to 11% in 2024) - perhaps explaining why Taylor is set to surge to third place, following the record-breaking Eras Tour. Also among the top musical inspirations is Billie (Eilish) taking the top spot as the most popular name for 2025, and Noel, with the highly anticipated Oasis reunion tour on the horizon, coming in at 13 on the list.
Over a quarter (26%) believe 2025 dog names will be influenced by TV shows, films and characters, compared to 22% who were inspired by their own favourite show or movie when naming their dog in 2024, with names of popular characters including Lasso, Darcy and Clark appearing on the list. Icons from the sporting world are also set to capture hearts with 16% of dog owners believing they will be a source of inspiration. Chelsea’s man of the moment Cole (Palmer) is expected to take fifth spot, Travis, inspired by Swift’s NFL star boyfriend, takes seventh spot, and England superstar Jude (Bellingham) to claim eighth.
Seasonal trends are also predicted to shape the list with 16% saying they believe others will be inspired by festive names in 2025 such as Sprout and Tinsel as the holiday season approaches. A further 16% of Brits also believe food items will be another playful source of inspiration, with Truffle predicted as the second favourite name for 2025.
Choosing a name
According to Guide Dogs Puppy Naming Specialist, Lydia Smith: “Choosing a dog’s name often reflects our own values, passions, and ties to family and culture - and our research shows inspiration can come from anywhere. At Guide Dogs, naming each puppy is a careful balance between creativity and practicality.
"As well as supporting their training, we carefully choose the names of our Sponsor a Puppy recruits to show off their individual personalities and of course, connect with the generous supporters who are following their journey to become life-changing guide dogs. At this point in the year, we also try to add a bit of festive fun, hence the names of our current Sponsor a Puppy trio; Custard, Jack and Buttons!”
Choosing a name for your new puppy is a fun and personal experience, especially when drawing inspiration from favourite celebrities or icons. Here are some helpful tips from Guide Dogs to ensure your pup’s name is as practical as it is meaningful:
Opt for names with three syllables or less. This will make their name easier for your dog to understand and easier with commands and cues that help support training.
Avoid their name rhyming with, or sounding like, key training commands to avoid any confusion. If a dog’s name rhymes with ‘stay’ for example, it can create uncertainty for the dog.
Make sure you are happy calling their name at the park. Guide Dogs often test names with guide dog owners to make sure they would feel happy calling the name at full volume in a field or park in front of other people and dog walkers, so it’s helpful to consider whether you are comfortable doing the same.
Help your puppy learn their name. Think about teaching them its name by repeating it and when they look at you, reward them with a treat.
Choose a name you love. Your dog’s name will be the most important word it will learn so choosing one you love is key. It’s fun to take inspiration from the things you enjoy or any names meaningful to you.
*The research was conducted by Censuswide with 1,000 New Dog Owners or future owners for 2024 in the UK between 01.11.2024 - 05.11.2024.
