400+ Small Dog Names for Your Tiny Companion

Ever looked at your tiny, lovable pup and thought, “You definitely need a name that matches your big personality”? Coming up with the perfect name for your small dog is one of the most fun parts of welcoming them home, but it can also be surprisingly challenging!

The right name isn’t just a cute label – it becomes part of their identity and how they interact with the world around them.

Small dog breeds have such unique charm – from the sassy Chihuahua to the spirited Yorkie – and their names should reflect that special something that makes them who they are.

I’ve put together this guide to help you find that perfect name that’ll make both you and your tiny companion happy for years to come.

Small Dog Names for Little Pups

These names work beautifully for any pint-sized pooch, highlighting their adorably compact nature:

• Peanut – From the English word for a small nut, perfect for tiny dogs with big personalities
• Tiny – Simple and descriptive, this English name directly references your dog’s small stature
• Bean – Inspired by the small legume, this cute name has become popular for petite pups
• Pip – Of English origin meaning “small seed,” ideal for the smallest members of the dog world
• Buttons – Referencing small fasteners, this name suits dogs who are “cute as a button”
• Mini – Short for “miniature,” this straightforward name celebrates your dog’s small size
• Dot – From the tiny mark made by a pen, this name is perfect for the smallest breeds
• Bitsy – A playful diminutive meaning “very small,” popular for toy breeds
• Nugget – Originally referring to a small lump of gold, now affectionately used for small, precious pets
• Smidgen – Meaning “a tiny amount,” this uncommon name has a playful sound for little dogs
• Runt – Traditionally referring to the smallest in a litter, now used affectionately for tiny dogs
• Mite – From the tiny arachnid, this short name packs a cute punch for extremely small dogs
• Speck – Meaning “a tiny spot,” this name emphasizes your dog’s diminutive size
• Teeny – A playful term for “very small,” popular for the tiniest of toy breeds
• Pocket – Suggesting a dog small enough to fit in your pocket, popular for teacup varieties
• Widget – Originally a small mechanical device, now a quirky choice for small, energetic dogs
• Crumb – A tiny piece of food or bread, this name has a cute, cozy feel for small pups
• Munchkin – From L. Frank Baum’s “The Wizard of Oz,” referring to small, cheerful characters
• Squirt – A playful term for something or someone small, often used for the runt of a litter
• Peewee – Originally slang for something very small, this name has a fun, retro feel

Top Small Dog Names

These are the most popular names that small dog owners are choosing right now:

• Luna – Latin for “moon,” this name has skyrocketed in popularity for dogs in recent years
• Bella – Italian for “beautiful,” this name became especially popular after the Twilight series
• Charlie – Of German origin meaning “free man,” this name works wonderfully for dogs of any gender
• Max – Derived from Maximilian, Latin for “greatest,” a classic short name perfect for small dogs
• Daisy – From the flower name, symbolizing innocence and purity, popular for small female dogs
• Milo – With Germanic origins meaning “merciful,” this name has seen a surge in popularity
• Lucy – From Latin “lux” meaning “light,” a perennially popular choice for small female dogs
• Cooper – Originally an English occupational name for barrel makers, now trending for dogs
• Bailey – From Old English meaning “bailiff” or “steward,” popular for both male and female dogs
• Oliver – From the Latin “olivarius” meaning “olive tree,” a top name for male dogs
• Lola – A diminutive of Dolores, Spanish for “sorrows,” now a spunky, upbeat dog name
• Buddy – American origin meaning “friend” or “companion,” a classic dog name that never goes out of style
• Rocky – Italian-American in origin, popularized by the boxing film character, suggesting toughness
• Coco – From French cocoa, this name works well for chocolate-colored dogs or any small breed
• Teddy – Short for Theodore, Greek for “gift of God,” evoking cuddly teddy bears
• Ruby – From the precious red gemstone, popular for small dogs with reddish coats
• Toby – Derived from Tobias, Hebrew for “God is good,” a friendly, approachable name
• Rosie – Derived from the flower name, suggesting beauty and sweetness
• Penny – Short for Penelope, Greek for “weaver,” or referencing the copper coin
• Leo – Latin for “lion,” ironic and adorable for tiny dogs with big personalities

Want more naming inspiration? Check out our collection of Cute Group Names for more adorable ideas!

Best Small Dog Names

These tried-and-true classics have stood the test of time for small breeds:

• Sophie – From Greek meaning “wisdom,” a dignified yet cute name for small female dogs
• Jack – Hebrew origin meaning “God is gracious,” a strong, classic name that works well for small dogs
• Molly – A diminutive of Mary, Hebrew for “bitter,” a friendly, approachable name for female dogs
• Oscar – Of Irish and English origin meaning “deer lover” or “champion warrior,” popular for dachshunds
• Maggie – Short for Margaret, Greek for “pearl,” a sweet, traditional name with a friendly sound
• Henry – Germanic origin meaning “home ruler,” lending dignity to even the smallest breeds
• Sadie – Diminutive of Sarah, Hebrew for “princess,” a playful yet classic choice
• Archie – German origin meaning “truly brave,” popularized recently by the British royal family
• Lily – From the flower symbolizing purity and innocence, perfect for delicate small breeds
• Gus – Short for Augustus, Latin for “majestic,” a strong name with a friendly sound
• Millie – Short for Millicent or Mildred, Germanic for “gentle strength,” popular for gentle breeds
• Winston – English origin meaning “stone of joy,” lending sophistication to small dogs
• Gracie – From Latin “gratia” meaning “grace,” suggesting elegance even in tiny packages
• Sam – Short for Samuel, Hebrew for “name of God,” a simple, friendly name for any small dog
• Zoe – Greek for “life,” an energetic name for lively small breeds
• Finn – Irish origin meaning “fair,” short and sweet for small male dogs
• Annie – Hebrew origin meaning “grace,” a classic, friendly name for female dogs
• Jasper – Persian origin meaning “treasurer,” popular for small dogs with distinctive personalities
• Stella – Latin for “star,” suggesting brightness and specialness
• Louie – French origin as a diminutive of Louis, meaning “famous warrior,” both regal and cute

Cute Names For Small Dog

These adorably sweet names are perfect for dogs that make you say “aww” every time you look at them:

• Cuddles – English origin referring to affectionate embraces, perfect for snuggly small dogs
• Biscuit – From the baked treat, a warm, cozy name for small golden or tan-colored dogs
• Pumpkin – From the orange gourd, this term of endearment makes a sweet dog name
• Bubbles – Referencing the delicate soap spheres, this playful name suits bubbly personalities
• Muffin – From the baked good, a soft, sweet name popular for fluffy small breeds
• Snuggles – English origin referring to cuddling close, ideal for affectionate lap dogs
• Twinkle – From the sparkling light, this whimsical name suits bright-eyed small dogs
• Honey – From the sweet bee product, this term of endearment makes a loving dog name
• Cookie – From the sweet treat, popular for small dogs with spotted or multi-colored coats
• Pixie – From folklore describing tiny, mischievous fairy-like creatures, perfect for spirited small dogs
• Buttercup – From the yellow flower and Princess Bride character, a sweet, sunny name
• Jellybean – From the colorful candy, a playful choice for small, energetic dogs
• Cupcake – From the individual-sized cake, suggesting sweetness and petite size
• Marshmallow – From the soft, sweet confection, ideal for white, fluffy small breeds
• Sprinkle – From the colorful cake decorations, a fun name for energetic small dogs
• Bunny – From the small, hopping mammal, often used for dogs who hop or have rabbit-like features
• Sweetpea – From the fragrant flowering plant, a tender name for gentle small dogs
• Cotton – From the soft, white plant fiber, perfect for fluffy white small breeds
• Poppy – From the bright red flower, popular for small dogs with vibrant personalities
• Bumblebee – From the buzzing insect, a cute name for busy, energetic small dogs

Need more sweet name ideas? Take a look at our Cute Dog Names collection!

Unique Small Dog Names

Stand out from the crowd with these distinctive and uncommon names:

• Zephyr – Greek origin meaning “west wind,” an elegant, unusual name for refined small breeds
• Quin – Latin origin meaning “fifth born,” a rare, gender-neutral one-syllable name
• Fable – English origin referring to a mythical story, a literary name with whimsical appeal
• Kip – Dutch origin meaning “chicken,” a short, snappy name with unique flair
• Jinx – English origin meaning “a spell of bad luck,” ironically charming for mischievous small dogs
• Taro – Japanese origin meaning “first-born son,” a distinctive international choice
• Yeti – From Himalayan folklore’s abominable snowman, amusingly ironic for tiny white dogs
• Vex – Latin origin meaning “to annoy,” a quirky choice for feisty small breeds
• Nori – Japanese origin referring to edible seaweed, a trendy, short international name
• Wren – English origin from the small songbird, perfect for petite, vocal dogs
• Dax – French origin from a place name, short and distinctive with a modern sound
• Fern – English from the leafy plant, an earthy, uncommon choice for small dogs
• Mochi – Japanese origin from the sticky rice cake, trending for small, squishy-faced breeds
• Pike – English origin from the fish or weapon, a sharp, uncommon one-syllable name
• Zuni – From Native American Pueblo people, a melodic, distinctive cultural name
• Elm – English origin from the tree, a short, strong nature name rarely used for pets
• Poet – English origin referring to a writer of verse, an artistic, unexpected choice
• Quill – English origin referring to a feather pen or porcupine spine, uncommon but recognizable
• Vesper – Latin origin meaning “evening star,” an elegant name with astronomical connections
• Cleo – Short for Cleopatra, Greek for “glory of the father,” historic yet underused for small dogs

For more distinctive naming options, browse our Unique Usernames collection!

Funny Small Dog Names

These humorous names are sure to bring a smile to everyone who meets your tiny pup:

• Sir Barksalot – A playful title and descriptor, perfect for vocal small dogs who bark frequently
• Tater Tot – From the small potato snack, humorously appropriate for tiny, round dogs
• Meatball – From the small, round food, comically fitting for chubby small breeds
• Goliath – Hebrew biblical giant, ironic for extremely small dogs for comedic contrast
• Napkin – Everyday object that small dogs could be wrapped in, absurdly random and funny
• Señor Fluffypants – Spanish honorific with descriptive suffix, elaborately formal for comic effect
• Stubby – Describing something short, amusingly direct for dogs with short legs
• Professor Wagglesworth – Academic title with made-up surname, creating humor through unearned formality
• Teacup – From the small drinking vessel, amusingly literal for extremely tiny dogs
• Barkimedes – Wordplay on Archimedes, suggesting a dog of great intelligence with a pun
• Waffles – From the breakfast food, a silly, informal name with no connection to dogs
• Squash – From the vegetable or sport, comically inappropriate for diminutive dogs
• Biggie Smalls – From the rapper’s name, creating humor through the contradiction for tiny dogs
• Lil’ Chunk – Combining “little” with “chunk,” a humorous oxymoron for small dogs
• Thumbelina – From Hans Christian Andersen’s tiny fairy tale character, amusingly fitting for the smallest dogs
• Sir Wigglebottom – Fictional title combined with descriptor of dog behavior, elaborately silly
• Pixel – The smallest unit of a digital image, cleverly appropriate for tiny dogs
• Captain Underpants – From the children’s book character, absurdly inappropriate for dogs
• Porkchop – From the meat cut, humorously unrelated food name popular for small dogs
• Napoleon – The French emperor known for being short, a historical reference creating ironic humor

Want more humor in your pet’s name? Check out our Funny Team Names for inspiration!

Female Small Dog Names

These lovely names are perfect for your little girl dog:

• Chloe – Greek origin meaning “blooming,” a popular, feminine name for elegant small females
• Zoe – Greek origin meaning “life,” energetic and bright for lively female dogs
• Piper – English occupational name for pipe players, trendy for spunky female dogs
• Willow – English origin from the graceful tree, suggesting elegance and flexibility
• Ivy – English from the climbing plant, a short, pretty nature name
• Roxy – Persian origin meaning “dawn” or short for Roxanne, with a sassy, modern feel
• Trixie – Latin origin meaning “bringer of joy,” playful for spirited small females
• Fiona – Gaelic origin meaning “fair,” popularized by the Shrek character
• Ginger – English origin from the spice, perfect for reddish-colored female dogs
• Dottie – Diminutive of Dorothy, Greek for “gift of God,” cute for spotted dogs
• Josie – Diminutive of Josephine, Hebrew for “God will add,” friendly and approachable
• Pepper – English from the spice, ideal for black or speckled female dogs with spunky personalities
• Ellie – Short for Eleanor or Elizabeth, Greek for “shining light,” sweet and feminine
• Winnie – Welsh origin meaning “fair one” or short for Winifred, popularized by Winnie the Pooh
• Nala – African origin from The Lion King character, exotic yet recognizable
• Hazel – English from the tree and color, vintage name recently returned to popularity
• Olive – Latin origin from the tree, a food name with a gentle, peaceful meaning
• Dolly – Diminutive of Dorothy, Greek for “gift of God,” suggesting a cute, doll-like appearance
• Pearl – English from the precious gem, elegant for white or cream-colored small females
• Bea – Short for Beatrice, Latin for “she who brings happiness,” short and sweet

For more female-specific naming ideas, visit our Girl Group Names page!

Male Small Dog Names

These handsome names are perfect for your little boy dog:

• Bentley – English origin meaning “meadow with coarse grass,” lending luxury brand prestige
• Duke – Latin origin meaning “leader,” giving small dogs a noble, commanding title
• Banjo – English origin from the musical instrument, a fun, upbeat name for playful males
• Bruno – Germanic origin meaning “brown,” popularized by recent pop culture
• Atlas – Greek mythology reference to the titan who held up the sky, ironically grand for small dogs
• Rusty – English origin describing reddish-brown color, good for dogs with rust-colored fur
• Baxter – English origin meaning “baker,” a friendly, approachable name for male dogs
• Milo – Germanic origin meaning “merciful,” trending for small male dogs
• Otis – Germanic origin meaning “wealthy,” with a vintage, distinguished sound
• Rudy – Germanic short form of Rudolf, meaning “famous wolf,” ironic for non-wolfish small breeds
• Chip – English origin meaning “small piece,” appropriately sized name for tiny males
• Arlo – Old English possibly meaning “fortified hill,” gaining popularity for its soft sound
• Felix – Latin origin meaning “lucky” or “successful,” associated with the cartoon cat
• Gizmo – American slang for a gadget, popularized by the movie “Gremlins”
• Percy – French origin meaning “one who pierces the valley,” aristocratic yet approachable
• Scout – English occupation referring to one who gathers information, adventurous and alert
• Watson – English origin meaning “son of Walter,” scholarly companion name from Sherlock Holmes
• Ziggy – Germanic origin short for Siegfried or from David Bowie’s Ziggy Stardust, rock-and-roll flair
• Marley – English place name, popularized by Bob Marley and “Marley & Me”
• Dexter – Latin origin meaning “right-handed” or “skilled,” suggesting intelligence

Looking for more male-oriented names? Browse our Boys Group Names collection!

Famous Small Dog Names

These names are inspired by well-known small dogs from pop culture:

• Toto – From “The Wizard of Oz,” a Cairn Terrier who was Dorothy’s faithful companion
• Bruiser – From “Legally Blonde,” Elle Woods’ stylish Chihuahua companion
• Gidget – The small white dog from Taco Bell commercials, became a pop culture icon
• Odie – From the “Garfield” comics and cartoons, Garfield’s canine friend
• Snoopy – From “Peanuts,” Charles Schulz’s iconic beagle with a rich imagination
• Benji – Star of several films, a small mixed-breed dog who saves the day
• Wishbone – From the 1990s TV show, a Jack Russell Terrier who imagined himself in literary classics
• Gizmo – The adorable mogwai (not technically a dog) from the movie “Gremlins”
• Asta – From “The Thin Man” films, a Wire Fox Terrier detective’s companion
• Eddie – From “Frasier,” a Jack Russell Terrier owned by Martin Crane
• Verdell – From “As Good As It Gets,” the Brussels Griffon who softens Melvin’s heart
• Frank – The alien disguised as a pug in “Men in Black”
• Scooby – From “Scooby-Doo,” while larger, this Great Dane has inspired many small dog names
• Comet – The Golden Retriever from “Full House,” beloved family pet
• Marcel – From “Friends,” Ross’s capuchin monkey (not a dog but inspired pet names)
• Brain – From “Inspector Gadget,” Penny’s intelligent dog who helps solve cases
• Fang – Hagrid’s enormous boarhound from Harry Potter, ironically funny for tiny dogs
• Hooch – From “Turner & Hooch,” the slobbery Dogue de Bordeaux
• Lassie – The famous Collie from films and TV, a classic pet name despite being a larger breed
• Beethoven – From the film series, the St. Bernard who causes chaos, amusingly ironic for small dogs

For more pop culture naming inspiration, check out our Movie-Inspired Cat Names that work great for dogs too!

Food-Inspired Small Dog Names

These delicious names are perfect for dogs as sweet as their namesakes:

• Oreo – From the iconic black and white cookie, perfect for dogs with similar coloring
• Pancake – From the flat breakfast food, cute for dogs with flat faces like Pugs or Pekingese
• Donut – From the sweet fried dough treat, playful for round, sweet-natured dogs
• Kiwi – From the small brown fruit with green interior, good for small, fuzzy dogs
• Toffee – From the caramel-like candy, ideal for dogs with golden-brown coats
• Pickles – From the brined cucumber, a quirky choice for dogs with tart personalities
• Espresso – From the concentrated coffee, energetic name for small, active dogs
• Cashew – From the curved nut, unusual food name with a nice sound
• Ginger – From the spicy root, perfect for dogs with reddish or ginger-colored fur
• Pretzel – From the twisted bread snack, fun for dogs who curl up in twisted positions
• Skittles – From the colorful candy, playful for energetic, bright-personality dogs
• Cocoa – From the chocolate powder, ideal for brown-coated small breeds
• Nutmeg – From the warm baking spice, sophisticated for reddish-brown dogs
• Snickers – From the chocolate bar, for dogs who make you laugh or “snicker”
• Taffy – From the chewy candy, sweet for dogs who like to pull during play
• Sage – From the aromatic herb, an elegant name for wise-seeming small dogs
• Pepper – From the spicy seasoning, fitting for dogs with spunky personalities
• Fig – From the sweet fruit, short and distinctive for small, sweet dogs
• Basil – From the aromatic herb, a sophisticated culinary name gaining popularity
• Chai – From the spiced tea, warm and comforting for snuggly small breeds

Love food-themed names? Visit our Food Usernames page for more tasty inspiration!

Small Dog Names for Female Dogs

These feminine names are particularly suited to small female breeds:

• Bianca – Italian origin meaning “white,” elegant for white-coated female dogs
• Minnie – English diminutive meaning “of the mind” or “memory,” suggesting small size
• Flora – Latin origin meaning “flower,” delicate and feminine for small females
• Pixie – English folklore referring to tiny magical beings, perfect for petite females
• Belle – French origin meaning “beautiful,” classic feminine name with a sweet sound
• Jewel – English from the precious stone, suggesting something small but valuable
• Elsie – Scottish variant of Elizabeth meaning “pledged to God,” vintage charm
• Blossom – English from the flower part, suggesting delicate beauty and springtime
• Layla – Arabic origin meaning “night,” exotic with a melodic sound
• Cleo – Greek short form of Cleopatra meaning “glory of the father,” regal yet compact
• Sassy – English describing attitude, fitting for females with big personalities
• Lulu – Arabic origin meaning “pearl,” cute and catchy for tiny females
• Maisie – Scottish form of Margaret meaning “pearl,” friendly with vintage appeal
• Nova – Latin origin meaning “new star,” trendy for bright, special small females
• Pippa – English diminutive of Philippa meaning “lover of horses,” short and peppy
• Callie – Greek origin meaning “beautiful,” friendly and approachable
• Evie – Hebrew diminutive of Eve meaning “life,” sweet and contemporary
• Harper – English occupational name for harp player, trendy for modern female dogs
• Bonnie – Scottish origin meaning “pretty,” cheerful and cute
• Lottie – German diminutive of Charlotte meaning “free man,” vintage with modern appeal

Small Dog Names for Male Dogs

These masculine names work perfectly for little guy dogs:

• Dash – English origin suggesting speed, energetic name for active small males
• Alfie – English diminutive of Alfred meaning “elf counsel,” friendly with British charm
• Ozzy – Hebrew origin possible short form of Oswald or Ozias, rock and roll edge
• Yoda – From Star Wars’ small but mighty Jedi master, perfect for wise, small dogs
• Remy – French origin meaning “oarsman,” popularized by Ratatouille’s small chef
• Hugo – Germanic origin meaning “mind” or “intellect,” sophisticated European flair
• Cosmo – Greek origin meaning “order” or “universe,” playful with cosmic significance
• Nico – Greek origin meaning “victory of the people,” short and strong
• Monty – Latin diminutive of Montgomery meaning “mountain,” British aristocratic feel
• Rocco – Germanic origin meaning “rest,” Italian flair with a strong sound
• Theo – Greek short form of Theodore meaning “gift of God,” trendy and dignified
• Ace – Latin origin meaning “unity” or “one,” suggesting excellence in a small package
• Bernie – Germanic diminutive of Bernard meaning “brave as a bear,” friendly and approachable
• Hank – Germanic diminutive of Henry meaning “estate ruler,” unpretentious with American charm
• Joey – Hebrew diminutive of Joseph meaning “God will add,” youthful and friendly
• Kobe – Possibly from the Japanese city, associated with basketball greatness
• Nero – Latin origin meaning “stern,” historically significant with a strong sound
• Rex – Latin origin meaning “king,” regal name ironically fitting for small males
• Sammy – Hebrew diminutive of Samuel meaning “name of God,” friendly and accessible
• Zeke – Hebrew short form of Ezekiel meaning “God strengthens,” distinctive and bold

For more male-oriented naming ideas, explore our Team Names That Start With M collection!

Small Dog Names for White Dogs

These names are perfect for small dogs with white or light-colored coats:

• Snow – English from the frozen precipitation, obviously fitting for pure white dogs
• Angel – Greek origin meaning “messenger,” suggesting heavenly white appearance
• Ivory – English from the white material from elephant tusks, elegant for cream-colored dogs
• Coconut – From the tropical fruit with white flesh, playful for white fluffy dogs
• Ghost – English spirit reference, spooky-cute for pure white dogs
• Powder – English referring to fine white particles, soft name for fluffy white dogs
• Blanco – Spanish origin meaning “white,” international flair for white-coated dogs
• Pearl – English from the white sea gem, classic elegant name for female white dogs
• Snowball – Compound English word, playful for round, white fluffy dogs
• Cotton – English from the white plant fiber, soft-sounding for fluffy white dogs
• Sugar – English from the white sweetener, sweet-natured name for light-colored dogs
• Frost – English ice formation, cool name for white or silver-white dogs
• Marshmallow – From the white confection, cute for soft, squishy-looking white dogs
• Cloud – English sky formation, fluffy and heavenly for white dogs
• Lily – English from the white flower, elegant feminine name for white female dogs
• Vanilla – From the light-colored flavoring, sweet for cream-colored dogs
• Blizzard – English snowstorm, dramatic for pure white dogs
• Casper – From the friendly ghost character, playful for white dogs
• Glacier – English ice formation, cool and majestic for ice-white dogs
• Opal – English from the iridescent gemstone, elegant for dogs with white coats that shimmer

For more color-specific naming inspiration, check out our White Car Names that work beautifully for white dogs too!

Cutest Small Dog Names

These incredibly adorable names will perfectly match your irresistibly cute tiny pup:

• Teddy – After teddy bears, suggesting cuddly, soft appearance and personality
• Bubbles – English referring to soap spheres, playful and light for effervescent personalities
• Snuggles – English referring to cuddles, perfect for affectionate lap dogs
• Pipsqueak – English slang for someone small who makes noise, affectionately teasing
• Cuddles – English referring to embraces, ideal for dogs who love to be held
• Munchkin – From L. Frank Baum’s Oz books, referring to small, cheerful characters
• Wiggle – English referring to small movements, apt for dogs with wiggly bottoms
• Button – English from the small fastener, as in “cute as a button”
• Squish – English referring to soft compression, adorable for dogs with squishy faces
• Jellybean – From the small, colorful candy, sweet for small, colorful personalities
• Peaches – From the soft, sweet fruit, warm and friendly name
• Nibbles – English referring to tiny bites, cute for puppies who mouth everything
• Puffin – From the small seabird, uncommon but adorable for small dogs
• Scrappy – English referring to small pieces or fighting spirit, for tiny but tough dogs
• Waffles – From the breakfast food, sweet and comforting
• Teacup – From the small drinking vessel, literally descriptive for very tiny dogs
• Pebbles – English small stones, cute for small, solid dogs
• Boo – Playful sound used to surprise, popularized by “the world’s cutest dog”
• Chewie – From Star Wars’ Chewbacca or the action of chewing, adorable for small puppies
• Cupcake – From the small individual cake, sweet and perfectly sized

Looking for more adorably cute pet names? Browse our Cute Cat Names collection!

Most Unique Small Dog Names

These incredibly distinctive names will ensure your dog stands out from the crowd:

• Zamboni – From the ice resurfacing machine, unexpected and memorable
• Pixel – The smallest unit of a digital image, modern tech name for tiny dogs
• Calcifer – From Howl’s Moving Castle’s fire demon, literary and unusual
• Rune – Norse origin referring to ancient letters, mystical and short
• Onyx – Greek origin referring to the black gemstone, elegant for dark-colored dogs
• Mochi – Japanese sweet rice cake, trending but still unique for small, squishy dogs
• Vex – Latin origin meaning “to annoy,” edgy one-syllable name for feisty
• Thistle – From the spiky Scottish plant, distinctive nature name with character
• Zest – English referring to enthusiasm or citrus peel, energetic and fresh
• Fable – English origin referring to fictional stories, literary and unusual
• Nimbus – Latin origin meaning “cloud” or “halo,” mythological and distinctive
• Cipher – Arabic origin referring to codes, mysterious and intelligent-sounding
• Juniper – Latin origin from the evergreen shrub, trendy for humans but still unique for dogs
• Koa – Hawaiian origin meaning “warrior,” strong name in a small package
• Quasar – Astronomical term for distant celestial objects, space-inspired uniqueness
• Taro – Japanese origin from a root vegetable, international flair
• Winslow – English origin meaning “friend’s hill,” dignified yet uncommon
• Nyx – Greek goddess of night, mythological and mysterious one-syllable name
• Cinder – English origin from ash remains, fiery and distinctive
• Zephyr – Greek origin meaning “west wind,” flowing and elegant

For more unique name ideas, explore our One Word Guild Names collection!

Small Dog Names for Black Dogs

These perfect names complement the beautiful dark coats of black small dogs:

• Pepper – English from the black spice, classic for black-coated dogs with spunky personalities
• Jet – English from the black gemstone, sleek and shiny for glossy black coats
• Licorice – From the black candy, sweet for black dogs with sweet personalities
• Shadow – English referring to dark silhouettes, classic for black dogs who follow closely
• Midnight – English referring to darkest time of night, dramatic for pure black dogs
• Onyx – Greek origin from the black gemstone, elegant and sophisticated
• Coal – English from the black fossil fuel, simple and descriptive
• Ebony – Greek origin from the dark wood, refined and classic
• Raven – English from the black bird, literary connection via Edgar Allan Poe
• Vader – From Star Wars villain Darth Vader dressed in black, powerful yet ironic for small dogs
• Inky – English referring to black writing fluid, playful for small black dogs
• Espresso – Italian dark coffee, sophisticated for energetic black dogs
• Olive – English from the dark fruit, subtle alternative to obvious black names
• Domino – From the black and white game piece, distinctive for dogs with white markings
• Slate – English from the dark gray stone, elegant for dogs that aren’t pure black
• Panther – From the black big cat, powerful name for tiny black dogs
• Truffle – From the dark chocolate candy, sweet for black dogs
• Soot – English from fireplace residue, cute for small black dogs who get into mischief
• Ember – English from glowing coal remains, fiery name for black dogs with spirit
• Eclipse – Astronomical event where sun is blocked, dramatic for striking black dogs

Love these names? Check out our Black Car Names for more dark and dramatic inspiration!

Funny Small Dog Names

These hilarious names will make everyone laugh when they meet your tiny pup:

• Sir Barksalot – Humorous title and descriptive name, perfect for vocal small dogs
• Meatball – From the small round food, funny contrast for tiny round dogs
• Professor Wagglesworth – Mock academic title with silly surname, absurdly formal
• Nugget – From the small food item, humorously literal for tiny dogs
• Lord Tinypants – Aristocratic title with descriptive suffix, comically formal
• Tater Tot – From the small potato snack, perfectly sized description
• Captain Underpants – From the children’s book character, absurdly inappropriate
• Sushi Roll – From the small food item, cute and unexpected
• Sir Fluffington – Mock aristocratic name, overly dignified for small fluffy dogs
• Señor Chihuahua – Spanish honorific with breed name, ridiculously redundant for actual Chihuahuas
• Squirt – English referring to small stream of liquid, amusingly direct about size
• General Smallness – Military title with descriptive surname, comically grandiose
• Chewbacca – Star Wars character, ironic for tiny non-hairy breeds
• Admiral Tinyfloof – Naval rank with descriptive compound word, absurdly contrasting
• Biggie Smalls – After the rapper, contradictory name creating humor
• Goliath – Biblical giant, ironic for extremely small dogs
• Brutus – Latin origin suggesting strength and size, comically inappropriate
• Count Chocula – From the cereal mascot, ridiculous nobility for small brown dogs
• Napkin – Everyday object, absurdly random and therefore funny
• Hercules – Greek mythological strongman, ironic for the smallest, weakest-looking dogs

Want more humorous names? Visit our Funny Last Names page for more laugh-worthy inspiration!

Small Dog Names Inspired by Household Items

These creative names drawn from everyday objects make surprisingly cute dog names:

• Button – Small fastener used on clothing, perfect size comparison for tiny dogs
• Thimble – Sewing tool worn on finger, indicating extremely small size
• Teacup – Small drinking vessel, literally descriptive for very tiny dogs
• Pixel – Smallest unit of digital display, tech-inspired name for the tiniest pups
• Pocket – Clothing storage space, suggesting a dog small enough to fit in one
• Penny – Small coin, indicating small size and copper coloring for some dogs
• Gadget – Small mechanical device, good for clever little problem-solvers
• Zipper – Clothing fastener, zippy name for quick small dogs
• Sprocket – Small mechanical wheel with teeth, industrial-cute for active dogs
• Peanut – Small legume, classic small-sized descriptor with cute sound
• Socket – Electrical connection point, unexpectedly cute tech name
• Widget – Small mechanical device or software component, quirky tech name
• Pillow – Soft bedding item, cozy name for dogs who love to snuggle
• Toaster – Kitchen appliance, unexpectedly cute with retro vibe
• Muffin – Baking tin or result, sweet name for round little dogs
• Skillet – Cooking pan, unexpectedly cute kitchen-inspired name
• Noodle – Food item, good for long, thin dogs like Dachshunds
• Cookie – Baked treat, sweet-natured name popular for spotted dogs
• Marble – Small glass sphere for games, good for round-bodied small dogs
• Kettle – Water-boiling vessel, surprisingly cute household name

Looking for more creative naming inspiration? Check out our Project Name Ideas that can work wonderfully for pets too!

Why the Right Name Matters for Your Small Dog

Picking a name for your small dog is more important than you might think! A good name isn’t just something that sounds cute when you call it out at the dog park. It’s a word your dog will hear thousands of times throughout their life, and it needs to work on several levels:

• It should be easy for your dog to recognize
• It should reflect something about their personality or appearance
• It needs to be something you’ll love saying day after day
• It should be easy for others to pronounce and remember

Think about it – you’ll be saying this name at least 30 times a day for the next 10-15 years! That’s why it’s worth putting some thought into finding just the right one.

What Makes a Great Small Dog Name?

When it comes to naming small dogs, certain characteristics tend to work better than others:

Short and Sweet

Names with one or two syllables are generally easier for dogs to recognize and respond to. Think Max, Bella, Coco, or Rex. These quick, punchy names stand out from the background noise of everyday conversation, making it easier for your pup to know when you’re talking to them.

Research shows that dogs respond most consistently to names that are distinct from common commands. That’s why names like “Kit” (sounds like “sit”) or “Bo” (sounds like “no”) might cause confusion.

Personality Reflection

The best names often capture something essential about your dog’s personality, appearance, or breed. A feisty Chihuahua might be perfectly suited to a name like “Spicy” or “Pepper,” while a fluffy white Maltese might be a “Cotton” or “Snowball.”

Positive Associations

Dogs pick up on our emotional tone, so choose a name you enjoy saying in a happy, upbeat voice. Avoid names with negative associations or ones that might sound like scolding – your dog will have a harder time forming positive associations with their name.

Most Popular Small Dog Names Right Now

Some names just never go out of style, while others rise and fall with cultural trends. Here are some of the names topping the charts for small dogs in 2025:

Top 10 Popular Small Dog Names

1. Luna
2. Bella
3. Charlie
4. Milo
5. Daisy
6. Max
7. Oliver
8. Lola
9. Cooper
10. Bailey

These names have stayed popular because they’re short, easy to say, and have a friendly sound that works well for calling across the dog park. Many of them also work for both male and female dogs, giving them versatility that pet parents appreciate.

Interestingly, many of these names mirror popular baby names – reflecting how many of us see our pets as furry family members! Names like Oliver and Luna have been climbing both the human and canine popularity charts.

Unique and Uncommon Small Dog Names

Looking for something a bit more distinctive? These uncommon names will help your pup stand out from the pack:

• Zephyr (a gentle breeze)
• Bijou (French for “jewel”)
• Pixel
• Quill
• Toast
• Waffle
• Whiskey
• Fable
• Rune
• Kip

When creating your own unique name, try these approaches:

• Look to favorite books, shows, or hobbies for inspiration
• Consider vintage names that have fallen out of fashion
• Combine two short words you like
• Think of objects or concepts you love
• Draw from languages that have significance to you

Just remember that even the most creative name should still be easy to call out and for your dog to recognize!

Small Dog Names by Gender

While many names work for any dog, some pet parents prefer traditionally gendered names for their furry friends.

Male Small Dog Names

Popular Choices:

• Winston
• Archie
• Finn
• Teddy
• Leo
• Charlie
• Jasper
• Oscar
• Louie
• Henry

Cute and Quirky Options:

• Biscuit
• Nugget
• Moose (ironic for a tiny pup!)
• Dash
• Rolo
• Otis
• Ziggy
• Pickle
• Radar
• Bean

Bold masculine names that work for little dogs:
These pack a punch even for the smallest breeds:

• Zeus
• Thor
• Titan
• Rocky
• Diesel
• Brutus
• Duke
• Tank
• Maverick

Female Small Dog Names

Popular Choices:

• Sophie
• Ruby
• Stella
• Coco
• Molly
• Penny
• Rosie
• Lily
• Willow
• Gracie

Cute and Elegant Options:

• Pixie
• Trixie
• Ivy
• Maisie
• Buttercup
• Poppy
• Piper
• Blossom
• Fifi
• Ginger

Exotic and Rare Names:

• Amaya
• Beatrix
• Marnie
• Vixen
• Xena
• Zadie
• Clover
• Fern
• Juniper
• Nova

Themed Small Dog Names Your Pup Will Love

Themed names add an extra dimension of fun and can reflect your interests or your dog’s personality in creative ways.

Pop Culture Small Dog Names

TV shows, movies, books, and celebrities provide endless inspiration:

• Toto (The Wizard of Oz)
• Snoopy (Peanuts)
• Gizmo (Gremlins)
• Dobby (Harry Potter)
• Yoda (Star Wars)
• Chewie (Star Wars)
• Khaleesi (Game of Thrones)
• Eleven (Stranger Things)
• Pikachu (Pokémon)
• Arya (Game of Thrones)

These names can be especially fun if your dog already resembles a certain character. For instance, a little dog with big ears might make a perfect Dobby or Gizmo!

Food-Inspired Small Dog Names

Food names are particularly popular for small dogs – maybe because they’re just as sweet and satisfying as their namesakes:

• Peanut
• Muffin
• Waffles
• Cupcake
• Pickle
• Bagel
• Toffee
• Oreo
• Cookie
• Noodle
• Pepper
• Mocha

Food names work especially well for small breeds with specific colorings or personalities that match foods. A brown Chihuahua might make a perfect “Bean” or “Cocoa,” while a high-energy Yorkshire Terrier could be “Pepper” or “Whiskey.”

Nature and Place-Inspired Names

The natural world offers beautiful inspiration for dog names:

• Willow
• Maple
• River
• Sunny
• Daisy
• Forest
• Clover
• Sky
• Aspen
• Alpine
• Mesa
• Brook

Small Dog Names by Breed

Different breeds often inspire different naming trends. Here are some ideas based on popular small dog breeds:

Chihuahua Names

Chihuahua names often reflect their Mexican heritage or their big personalities in tiny packages:

• Chico/Chica
• Peso
• Taco
• Salsa
• Rey/Reina (King/Queen in Spanish)
• Tiny
• Peanut
• Spicy

Yorkshire Terrier Names

Names for Yorkies often highlight their dignified appearance or British heritage:

• Duke/Duchess
• Earl/Lady
• London
• Winston
• Biscuit
• Scrappy
• Toffee
• Oxford

Dachshund Names

Dachshund names frequently play on their distinctive long shape or German origins:

• Oscar (as in Meyer)
• Frank (as in frankfurter)
• Pretzel
• Stretch
• Schnitzel
• Fritz
• Vienna
• Heidi

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our specialized list of Wiffle Ball Team Names for sports-themed pet name ideas!

International and Cultural Small Dog Names

Drawing from different cultures can provide beautiful and meaningful names for your small dog:

Japanese Names

• Hana (flower)
• Kiko (happy child)
• Yuki (snow)
• Mochi (rice cake)
• Suki (beloved)

Italian Names

• Bella (beautiful)
• Luca (bringer of light)
• Enzo (ruler of the home)
• Carina (dear little one)
• Piccolo (small)

Australian Names

• Digger
• Matilda
• Sydney
• Koala
• Ozzy

Adding a cultural dimension to your dog’s name can be especially meaningful if you have heritage connections or if your dog’s breed originates from a specific region.

Tips for Naming Your Small Dog

Finding the perfect name takes some thought. Here are some do’s and don’ts to guide you:

DO:

• Choose a name you enjoy saying frequently
• Pick something that’s easy to call out
• Select a name that’s different from other pets or family members
• Test the name to see if your dog responds well to it
• Consider a name that can grow with your dog from puppy to senior

DON’T:

• Choose names that sound like common commands (Kit/Sit, Bo/No)
• Pick overly complicated or hard-to-pronounce names
• Select a name with negative connotations
• Choose a name so common that every other dog at the park turns around

Testing the Name

Before finalizing your choice, try calling the name in different tones and situations. See how your dog responds and how comfortable you feel using it. Remember that you’ll be using this name in public, so make sure it’s something you won’t mind calling across a crowded dog park!

If you’re bringing home an adult dog who already knows their name, consider whether keeping their existing name might be less confusing for them. You could always add a middle name if you want to personalize it a bit!

Need more naming ideas? Browse our Pool Team Names collection for sporty inspiration!

Fun Facts About Small Dog Naming Trends

Dog naming trends tell us a lot about our relationship with our pets and our broader culture:

• Names ending in an “ee” sound (like Teddy, Ruby, Charlie) are particularly appealing to dogs’ ears and make up about 30% of popular dog names.
• Food names have increased in popularity by 37% over the past five years.
• Pop culture references peak around major movie or show releases – “Elsa” spiked after Frozen, and “Arya” after Game of Thrones.
• Regional differences exist: Southern states show a preference for hunting-related names (Hunter, Scout), while coastal cities trend toward food names (Kale, Quinoa).
• Most small dogs respond best to names with hard consonant sounds like K, T, or P (Kiki, Trixie, Pepper).
• Two-syllable names are easiest for dogs to recognize, according to animal behaviorists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I rename an adopted small dog?
Yes, but it may take time for them to adjust. Try using their old name alongside the new one initially, gradually transitioning to using only the new name. Most dogs will adapt within 2-4 weeks.

How long does it take for a dog to learn its name?
Most puppies can learn to recognize their name within 1-2 weeks with consistent use and positive reinforcement. Adult dogs may take a bit longer, especially if they’re learning a new name.

Should I choose a “human” name or a “pet” name?
This is entirely personal preference! Human names (like Max or Sophie) reflect how many people view pets as family members, while traditional pet names (like Spot or Fluffy) have their own charm. Choose whatever feels right for your relationship with your dog.

Are shorter names better for dogs?
Generally, yes. Dogs recognize shorter names more easily, and they’re more practical for training and everyday use. One or two syllable names typically work best.

How can I tell if my dog likes their name?
A positive response to hearing their name – perking up ears, wagging tail, making eye contact – suggests your dog has positive associations with their name. If they seem to ignore it consistently, it might not be distinct enough from other sounds they hear.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect name for your small dog is all about balancing what works for them (short, distinct, easy to recognize) with what feels right for you (meaningful, fitting their personality, enjoyable to say). The best names often reveal themselves once you’ve spent a little time with your new furry friend and gotten to know their unique quirks and characteristics.

Remember, whatever name you choose will become an important part of your dog’s identity and your relationship with them. So take your time, try out different options, and find something that makes both of you happy!

Do you have a small dog with a name you love? What inspired your choice? We’d love to hear your naming stories and add to our collection of small dog name ideas!

For more naming inspiration for your tiny companion, check out our collection of Cat Team Names that work wonderfully for petite pups too!