Choosing a puppy name in 2026 isn’t just about what sounds nice — it’s shaped by breed, personality, and the cultural moment we’re living in.
From timeless favourites like Luna and Teddy to newer, softer names inspired by nature, food, and pop culture, the way we name our dogs says a lot about how we see them: not just pets, but part of the family.
This year, the biggest shift isn’t just what names are popular — it’s how different names suit different breeds.
So if you’re bringing home a dog soon, here’s what people are calling them in 2026 — and what might suit yours.
Labrador
Friendly, steady, everyone’s favourite
Still one of the UK’s most popular breeds, Labradors tend to get names that feel warm, familiar, and easy to call across a park.
Top Labrador names (2026):
- Buddy
- Rosie
- Max
- Bailey
- Charlie
Why these work: These are dependable, two-syllable names — easy for recall and full of character. That’s exactly why names like Milo and Buddy continue to dominate.
Olive & Ted pick: “Otis” — same friendly feel, slightly less overused.
Cockapoo
Playful, affectionate, slightly chaotic (in the best way)
Cockapoos are everywhere right now — and their names reflect that softer, more “human” naming trend.
Top Cockapoo names (2026):
- Teddy
- Milo
- Alfie
- Poppy
- Mabel
Why these work: There’s a clear shift towards vintage, childlike names — the kind you’d hear in a playground as much as a dog park.
Olive & Ted pick: “Bertie” — classic, playful, and rising.
French Bulldog
Big personality in a small body
Frenchies tend to get names that are bold, funny, or slightly ironic.
Top French Bulldog names (2026):
- Frank
- Bruno
- Lola
- Nala
- Hugo
Why these work: Short, punchy names match their confident personalities — and slightly human names make them feel even more like little characters.
Olive & Ted pick: “Ralph” — understated, slightly ridiculous, perfect.
Dachshund
Small, stubborn, endlessly entertaining
Sausage dogs often get names that lean into their humour.
Top Dachshund names (2026):
- Oscar
- Winnie
- Peanut
- Coco
- Archie
Why these work: There’s a big rise in food names and playful irony — especially for smaller breeds.
Olive & Ted pick: “Pickle” — very 2026, very dachshund.
Golden Doodle
Gentle, sociable, looks like a teddy bear
These dogs almost name themselves.
Top Golden Doodle names (2026):
- Teddy
- Honey
- Bear
- Willow
- Daisy
Why these work: Soft, nature-inspired names are growing fast — reflecting a wider trend towards calm, aesthetic naming.
Olive & Ted pick: “Maple” — warm, gentle, slightly different.
Cocker Spaniel
Energetic, affectionate, always on the move
Spaniels tend to suit bright, happy names.
Top Cocker Spaniel names (2026):
- Ruby
- Luna
- Bella
- Rosie
- Jasper
Why these work: These are some of the UK’s most consistently popular names — and they’re not going anywhere.
Olive & Ted pick: “Lumi” — a softer, more modern twist on Luna.
The Big Puppy Naming Trends for 2026
Looking across all breeds, a few clear trends are shaping how people choose names this year:
- Human names are here to stay: Dogs called Arthur, Mabel, Bertie, and Frank feel completely normal now.
- Soft, aesthetic names are rising: Think: Willow, Nova, Honey, Maple — calm, gentle, slightly dreamy.
- Food names are everywhere: From Mochi to Pickle, playful names are having a moment.
- Pop culture still plays a role: Names inspired by films, TV, and celebrities continue to spike year-on-year.
- Classics aren’t going anywhere: Luna, Bella, Max, Charlie — they’re still everywhere for a reason.
So… How Do You Choose the Right Name?
Trends are helpful — but the best name is one you’ll actually enjoy saying every day.
Try this simple test:
- Can you call it across a park without hesitation?
- Does it suit their personality (not just how they look at 8 weeks)?
- Will you still like it in 10 years?
Because the truth is — “For the first night home, and for all the years that follow, it’s worth choosing a name you’ll never get tired of saying.”
Want Help Choosing the Perfect Name?
If you’re still deciding, we’ve put together something more useful than just a list.
Our Puppy Guide includes:
- A simple naming framework (so you don’t overthink it)
- Shortlists by personality, style, and breed
- A first-night checklist (so you feel properly prepared)
Download the Olive & Ted Puppy Guide and choose a name you’ll love from day one.