360+ Vintage Dog Names That Never Go Out of Style

Ever feel like modern pet names lack a certain charm? You’re not alone! There’s something wonderfully nostalgic about calling your pup “Bartholomew” instead of “Buddy” or “Rosalind” instead of “Riley.”

Vintage dog names are making a huge comeback, and for good reason—they add character, distinction, and a touch of history to our beloved four-legged friends.

Let’s dive into the world of classic canine names that have stood the test of time and discover why old-school monikers might be the perfect choice for your new furry family member.

Best Vintage Dog Names

These timeless classics have been beloved by dog owners for generations. They’ve stood the test of time for good reason!

• Rex – Meaning “king” in Latin, this regal name was extremely popular in the early 20th century for strong male dogs.
• Lady – A refined female name that gained enormous popularity after Disney’s “Lady and the Tramp” in 1955, though it was common even before then.
• Scout – Originally a working dog name for hunting companions who would “scout” ahead, now perfect for curious pups of any gender.
• Ginger – A spicy name that became popular in the 1930s, often given to red or golden-colored dogs.
• Duke – A noble title name that became common for dogs in the Victorian era, suggesting dignity and authority.
• Molly – An enduring classic Irish name meaning “star of the sea,” popular for female dogs since the 1800s.
• Buddy – A friendly, approachable name that was extremely common in the 1950s-60s, meaning “companion” or “friend.”
• Sadie – A diminutive of Sarah that was popular during the Victorian era, meaning “princess” and perfect for dainty female dogs.
• Jack – A short, punchy name popular throughout history, derived from the medieval “Jackin” meaning “God is gracious.”
• Daisy – A sweet flower name that was commonly given to female dogs during the Victorian flower-naming craze.
• Pepper – A spunky name popular in the 1940s-50s, often given to dogs with black or speckled coats.
• Buster – Meaning “tough guy,” this name peaked in the 1920s-30s for energetic male dogs.
• Lucy – Derived from Latin meaning “light,” this sweet vintage name has remained consistently popular since Victorian times.
• Charlie – A friendly, approachable name that has been popular for centuries, derived from the Germanic name Charles.
• Rosie – A flower-inspired name that was particularly popular in the early 1900s, expressing sweetness and beauty.
• Sam – A shortened form of Samuel, meaning “heard by God,” this simple classic has been a dog name favorite since the 1800s.
• Maggie – A diminutive of Margaret meaning “pearl,” this name was extremely common for dogs in the late 19th century.
• Henry – A royal name meaning “ruler of the home,” which became common for dogs in the early 20th century.
• Millie – Short for Mildred or Millicent, this cute vintage name was very popular during the 1880s-1920s.
• Archie – A diminutive of Archibald meaning “genuine and bold,” popular in the early 1900s and making a strong comeback.

For more classic name ideas, check out strong dog names that overlap with many vintage choices.

Good Vintage Dog Names

Looking for something with old-world charm that’s easy to call out at the dog park? These good vintage names fit the bill perfectly!

• Toby – A diminutive of Tobias meaning “God is good,” popular for dogs since the Victorian era.
• Bella – Meaning “beautiful” in Italian, this name was common for elegant female dogs long before it topped modern pet name charts.
• Oscar – Derived from Irish Gaelic elements meaning “deer lover,” popular for dogs since the late 1800s.
• Nelly – A diminutive of Eleanor or Helen, this sweet name was common in the early 1900s for female pets.
• Bruno – From Germanic origins meaning “brown,” this strong male name was popular for large dogs in the early 20th century.
• Penny – Short for Penelope, this cute coin-inspired name became popular for dogs in the 1950s.
• Walter – A Germanic name meaning “ruler of the army,” common for distinguished male dogs in the Victorian period.
• Dolly – A diminutive of Dorothy meaning “gift of God,” popular for small female dogs since the 19th century.
• Chester – From Latin castrum meaning “fortress,” this distinguished name was common for male dogs in the 1930s-40s.
• Sally – Derived from Sarah meaning “princess,” this friendly name was very popular for female dogs in the mid-20th century.
• Rudy – Short for Rudolf meaning “famous wolf,” this name gained popularity for dogs in the early 1900s.
• Minnie – A diminutive of Minerva or Mary, this cute name for small female dogs was highly popular in Victorian times.
• Barney – From Bernard meaning “brave as a bear,” this friendly name was common for male dogs in the 1950s-60s.
• Polly – A variation of Molly, this sweet name was given to female dogs throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Rusty – A descriptive name referring to rusty-red coat colors, very popular for dogs in the 1940s-50s.
• Ruby – A gemstone name that was fashionable for red-coated female dogs during the Victorian era.
• Teddy – Named after Theodore Roosevelt whose bear-hunting story led to the teddy bear, popular for dogs since the early 1900s.
• Maisie – A Scottish form of Margaret meaning “pearl,” common for female dogs in the early 20th century.
• Alfie – A diminutive of Alfred meaning “elf counsel,” popular for male dogs in Britain since the Victorian era.
• Elsie – Derived from Elizabeth meaning “God is my oath,” this sweet name was common for female dogs in the 1910s-20s.

If you’re interested in more traditional options, you might enjoy browsing country dog names which often have vintage appeal.

Female Vintage Names For Dogs

These lovely feminine names from the past provide the perfect blend of elegance and nostalgia for your girl pup.

• Florence – Named after the Italian city, this name was very popular during the Victorian era thanks to Florence Nightingale.
• Bessie – A diminutive of Elizabeth, this friendly farm-girl name was extremely common for female dogs in the late 19th century.
• Mabel – From the Latin amabilis meaning “lovable,” this name was among the top 20 female names in the 1880s-90s.
• Hazel – A nature-inspired name referring to the hazelnut tree, popular during the early 1900s for dogs with hazel/brown coloring.
• Josephine – A feminine form of Joseph meaning “Jehovah increases,” popular for elegant female dogs in the Victorian period.
• Olive – Both a nature name and meaning “peace,” this was a fashionable choice for dogs during the early 20th century.
• Clara – From Latin meaning “bright” or “clear,” this sophisticated name was common for female dogs in the 19th century.
• Pearl – A gemstone name that was extremely fashionable during the Victorian era for dignified female dogs.
• Ethel – From Old English meaning “noble,” this name was one of the most popular female names in the late 19th century.
• Martha – Of Aramaic origin meaning “lady,” this biblical name was common for steady, reliable female dogs historically.
• Lottie – A diminutive of Charlotte meaning “free woman,” popular for perky female dogs in the early 1900s.
• Adelaide – Of Germanic origin meaning “noble kind,” this regal name was popular during the Victorian era.
• Matilda – Germanic in origin meaning “mighty in battle,” nicknamed “Tillie,” popular in the late 19th century.
• Bertha – Germanic in origin meaning “bright” or “famous,” common for large female dogs in the early 20th century.
• Harriet – Feminine form of Henry meaning “home ruler,” popular for dignified female dogs in the 19th century.
• Winifred – Welsh in origin meaning “blessed peacemaking,” nicknamed “Winnie,” popular in the early 1900s.
• Agnes – Greek in origin meaning “pure” or “holy,” a common name for gentle female dogs in Victorian times.
• Gertrude – Germanic in origin meaning “spear of strength,” nicknamed “Gertie,” popular in the late 19th century.
• Beatrice – Latin in origin meaning “she who brings happiness,” a distinguished name for female dogs in Victorian times.
• Viola – Latin name for the violet flower, popularized by Shakespeare’s “Twelfth Night,” common in the early 20th century.

For more lovely feminine options with vintage charm, you might explore elegant girl names which work beautifully for dogs too.

Male Vintage Names For Dogs

These distinguished masculine names from yesteryear give your boy dog a touch of old-school class and character.

• Jasper – Of Persian origin meaning “treasurer,” this distinguished name was popular for male dogs in Victorian times.
• Theodore – Greek in origin meaning “gift of God,” often shortened to “Theo,” popular in the early 20th century.
• Winston – English in origin meaning “stone of joy,” popularized by Winston Churchill, common for dignified dogs in the 1940s-50s.
• Augustus – Latin in origin meaning “great” or “venerable,” often shortened to “Gus,” popular in the 19th century.
• Clarence – Latin in origin meaning “clear,” this dignified name was common for male dogs in the early 1900s.
• Rufus – Latin for “red-haired,” this was a popular name for reddish-colored dogs throughout history.
• Edmund – Old English for “prosperous protector,” this distinguished name was common in the Victorian era.
• Gilbert – Germanic in origin meaning “bright pledge,” nicknamed “Gil,” popular for dogs in the early 20th century.
• Percy – From the French place name Percé, this aristocratic name was popular for male dogs in the 19th century.
• Bernard – Germanic in origin meaning “brave as a bear,” a substantial name for large dogs throughout history.
• Mortimer – French in origin meaning “still water,” this distinguished name was popular in the Victorian period.
• Harold – Old English in origin meaning “army ruler,” commonly shortened to “Harry,” popular in the early 20th century.
• Elmer – Old English for “noble” and “famous,” this was a common dog name in rural America in the early 1900s.
• Wallace – Scottish in origin meaning “foreigner” or “Welshman,” popular for brave male dogs historically.
• Orville – French in origin meaning “gold town,” this unique name was popular for dogs in the early 20th century.
• Milton – English place name meaning “mill town,” a distinguished name popular in the late 19th century.
• Archibald – Germanic in origin meaning “genuine and bold,” often shortened to “Archie,” popular in Victorian times.
• Cornelius – Latin in origin with uncertain meaning, possibly “horn,” a dignified name for male dogs in the 19th century.
• Wilbur – Germanic in origin meaning “bright will,” this friendly name was popular for dogs in the early 1900s.
• Baxter – Occupational surname meaning “baker,” this distinctive name was common for male dogs in the Victorian era.

For more masculine vintage options, check out country boy names which share similar traditional appeal.

Old-Fashioned Dog Names

These truly old-school names have a charming quaintness that today’s popular names just can’t match.

• Fido – Latin for “faithful,” this was perhaps the most archetypal dog name in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Spot – A descriptive name for dogs with spotted coats, extremely common from the 18th-20th centuries.
• Rover – Meaning “wanderer,” this classic dog name was ubiquitous in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Prince – A noble title name that was extraordinarily popular for male dogs from Victorian times through the 1950s.
• Lassie – Scottish term of endearment for a young girl, made famous by the fictional collie but popular even before then.
• Kaiser – German for “emperor,” a popular name for German dog breeds in the late 19th/early 20th centuries.
• Towser – A traditional Scottish dog name meaning “rough-haired,” common in the 18th-19th centuries.
• Tray – A traditional English dog name popularized in literature, common in the 18th-19th centuries.
• Gyp – Short form used for female dogs in the 19th century, derived from “gypsy.”
• Major – A military rank name popular for large male dogs in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
• Frisky – A descriptive name for energetic dogs, very common in the 18th-19th centuries.
• Tiger – Despite being a cat, this name was paradoxically popular for fierce-looking dogs in Victorian times.
• Bowser – Origin uncertain but possibly Germanic, an extremely common dog name in the early 20th century.
• Beauty – A descriptive name for attractive female dogs, very popular in the Victorian era.
• Shep – Short for “shepherd,” this was traditionally given to herding dogs in the 19th-early 20th centuries.
• Jip – A variation of “Gyp,” this short name was common for small dogs in Victorian times.
• Bess – Short for “Elizabeth” or possibly “best,” this was a common female dog name in the 18th-19th centuries.
• Caesar – Named after the Roman emperor, this was popular for powerful male dogs in the Victorian era.
• Dandy – A name suggesting elegance and style, common for well-groomed dogs in the 19th century.
• Skip – A playful name suggesting agility, popular for energetic dogs in the early 20th century.

For more traditional options with historical flair, explore old lady names for dogs which captures this vintage spirit perfectly.

Cool Vintage Dog Names

Old-fashioned doesn’t have to mean stuffy! These vintage names have a distinctive cool factor that’s timeless.

• Ace – Originally popular in the 1920s-30s, this short name suggesting excellence has perpetual cool factor.
• Bonnie – Scottish for “pretty,” this spirited name was popular in the 1940s-50s for female dogs.
• Dash – A name suggesting speed and vigor, common for hunting dogs in the 19th century.
• Zelda – Made famous by Zelda Fitzgerald in the 1920s, this name has vintage glamour with modern appeal.
• Harley – An English surname that became popular for dogs in the early 20th century, now with a cool biker association.
• Tallulah – A Native American name meaning “leaping water,” popular during the Roaring Twenties.
• Rocco – Of Italian origin meaning “rest,” this name has a strong, cool vibe and was popular in the early 20th century.
• Stella – Latin for “star,” this name has celestial cool factor and was popular in the Victorian era.
• Ziggy – Short for Sigmund or Siegfried, this playful name gained popularity in the early 20th century.
• Cleo – Short for Cleopatra, this regal name with Egyptian connections was fashionable in the 1920s.
• Atlas – Named after the Greek titan who held up the sky, this powerful name has ancient cool factor.
• Dixie – Referring to the American South, this spirited name was popular for female dogs in the 1930s-50s.
• Zorro – Spanish for “fox,” this dashing name became popular after the 1920s fictional character.
• Etta – Short for Henrietta or Loretta, this jazzy name evokes singer Etta James and the 1940s.
• Maverick – An independent-minded person (from a Texas rancher), popular for dogs in the Old West.
• Billie – Popularized by Billie Holiday, this gender-neutral name has vintage jazz cool.
• Samson – A biblical strong man, this powerful name was common for large dogs in the 19th century.
• Dinah – A biblical name popularized by Alice in Wonderland and jazz songs, common in the early 20th century.
• Bogart – After Humphrey Bogart, this surname has tough-guy cool from the 1940s.
• Rhett – Made famous by Rhett Butler in “Gone With the Wind,” this southern name has enduring charm.

For more options with similar appeal, check out cool dog names which includes many vintage-inspired choices.

Unique Vintage Dog Names

These rare vintage gems will definitely make your pup stand out from the crowd at the dog park.

• Huckleberry – From Mark Twain’s novels, this unique American name was occasionally used for dogs in the late 19th century.
• Dottie – A diminutive of Dorothy, this sweet spotted-dog name was popular in the 1920s-30s.
• Almanzo – Made famous by Laura Ingalls Wilder’s husband, this unusual name has authentic pioneer-era credentials.
• Clementine – A fruit name that was actually much more common as a human (and dog) name in the 19th century than today.
• Montgomery – Nicknamed “Monty,” this distinguished surname was occasionally used for aristocratic dogs in Victorian times.
• Temperance – A virtue name from the Prohibition era, unusual but historically authentic.
• Briscoe – An English surname meaning “birch wood,” occasionally used for dogs in the late 19th century.
• Euphemia – Greek for “well-spoken,” often shortened to “Effie,” popular in Victorian times.
• Phineas – Hebrew in origin meaning “oracle,” this distinguished biblical name was used for dignified dogs in the 19th century.
• Eudora – Greek for “good gift,” this elegant name has literary connections to Eudora Welty.
• Thaddeus – A biblical name meaning “heart,” occasionally used for distinguished male dogs in Victorian times.
• Philomena – Greek for “loved,” this melodic name was fashionable in the 19th century.
• Bartholomew – A biblical apostle name often shortened to “Bart,” used for dignified dogs historically.
• Henrietta – Feminine form of Henry, nicknamed “Etta,” popular for elegant female dogs in the 19th century.
• Jethro – A biblical name meaning “excellence,” occasionally used for working dogs in the 19th century.
• Dorothea – Greek for “gift of God,” this formal version of Dorothy was common in Victorian times.
• Cornelius – A Roman name of uncertain origin, distinguished and occasionally used for noble dogs historically.
• Prudence – A virtue name popular with the Puritans and occasionally used for well-behaved female dogs historically.
• Percival – One of King Arthur’s Knights of the Round Table, occasionally used for noble dogs in Victorian times.
• Lavinia – A name from Roman mythology and Shakespeare, elegant and occasionally used for refined female dogs.

For similarly distinctive choices with historical flair, explore fantasy dog names which often draw from vintage sources.

Catchy Vintage Dog Names

These old-fashioned names have a melodic quality that makes them fun to say and easy for your dog to recognize.

• Beulah – Hebrew in origin meaning “married,” this rhythmic name was popular in the early 1900s.
• Jingles – A playful name referring to bell sounds, common for lively dogs in the early 20th century.
• Elwood – Old English meaning “elder tree forest,” this catchy name has an old-timey ring to it.
• Pippa – A diminutive of Philippa meaning “lover of horses,” pleasingly rhythmic and Victorian.
• Ziggy – Short for Sigmund or Siegfried, this bouncy name gained popularity in the early 20th century.
• Lulu – A diminutive of Louise or Louisa, this repetitive, catchy name was popular in the late 19th century.
• Barnaby – Hebrew in origin meaning “son of consolation,” this melodic name has a cheery bounce.
• Nellie – A diminutive of Helen or Eleanor, this warm, approachable name was common in the early 1900s.
• Bingo – Known from the children’s song, this name has been used for dogs since at least the 1780s.
• Moxie – Meaning “courage” or named after the early 20th-century soft drink, catchy and vintage.
• Waldo – Germanic in origin meaning “ruler,” this distinctive name has a playful sound.
• Poppy – A flower name that was popular during the Victorian floral naming trend, bright and peppy.
• Jinx – Referring to bad luck, this short, snappy name was occasionally used in the early 20th century.
• Maisie – A Scottish diminutive of Margaret, this sweet name has a bouncy quality.
• Banjo – Named after the musical instrument, occasionally used for dogs in the late 19th/early 20th centuries.
• Josie – A diminutive of Josephine, this friendly, approachable name was popular in the early 1900s.
• Buster – Meaning “tough guy,” this dynamic name was common for energetic male dogs in the 1920s-30s.
• Minnie – A diminutive of Minerva or Mary, this cute, repeating-sound name was popular in Victorian times.
• Rascal – A name for mischievous dogs that was common in the early 20th century, catchy and descriptive.
• Dotty – Referring to spots or a diminutive of Dorothy, this repetitive-sound name was popular in the 1930s-40s.

For more memorable options that are easy to call out, check out cute dog names which includes many vintage-inspired choices.

Regal Vintage Dog Names

These aristocratic names from the past will give your dog an air of nobility and distinction.

• Wellington – Named after the Duke of Wellington, this stately name was used for distinguished dogs in Victorian times.
• Victoria – Named after Queen Victoria, this majestic name was popular for dignified female dogs in the 19th century.
• Marquis – A noble rank below duke, this distinguished French title was used for elegant dogs historically.
• Duchess – The feminine form of Duke, this title name has been popular for refined female dogs since Victorian times.
• Archduke – A royal title from the Habsburg monarchy, occasionally used for very prestigious dogs historically.
• Empress – The female equivalent of Emperor, this supreme title was used for the most distinguished female dogs.
• Kingsley – English surname meaning “king’s meadow,” this regal name has aristocratic associations.
• Regina – Latin for “queen,” this majestic name was popular for distinguished female dogs in the 19th century.
• Baron – A title of nobility, this distinguished name was popular for imposing male dogs in Victorian times.
• Countess – The feminine form of Count, this noble title was used for elegant female dogs historically.
• Sterling – Referring to British money and high quality, this distinguished name suggests value and prestige.
• Majesty – Referring to royal dignity, this ambitious name was occasionally used for exceptional dogs historically.
• Viscount – A noble rank between Earl and Baron, used for distinguished male dogs in aristocratic households.
• Czarina – The title of a Russian empress, this exotic royal name was occasionally used in the 19th century.
• Chancellor – A high government position, this official title was used for dignified dogs in Victorian times.
• Baroness – The feminine form of Baron, this title name was used for elegant female dogs in noble households.
• Sovereign – Referring to a supreme ruler, this powerful name was occasionally used for exceptional dogs.
• Regent – A person who rules in place of a monarch, this distinguished title has royal associations.
• Marquesa – The Spanish feminine form of Marquis, this exotic title has aristocratic European flair.
• Crown – Referring to the monarch’s headpiece, this regal name symbolizes authority and prestige.

If you’re drawn to these majestic names, you might also enjoy powerful team names for more inspiration with a similar commanding presence.

Historical Vintage Dog Names

These names have special historical significance, connecting your pup to fascinating people and events from the past.

• Lincoln – Named after Abraham Lincoln, this distinguished presidential name became popular for dogs after his assassination.
• Edison – Named after inventor Thomas Edison, this ingenious name was used for clever dogs in the early 20th century.
• Amelia – After pioneering aviator Amelia Earhart, this adventurous name gained popularity in the 1930s.
• Mozart – Named after the classical composer, this cultured name was occasionally used for refined dogs historically.
• Roosevelt – After presidents Theodore and Franklin D. Roosevelt, this strong name was popular for distinguished dogs.
• Boudica – The warrior queen who led a rebellion against the Romans in Britain, a powerful historical name.
• Newton – After scientist Sir Isaac Newton, this intelligent name was used for clever dogs in the Victorian era.
• Cleopatra – The last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, often shortened to “Cleo” for dogs.
• Darwin – After naturalist Charles Darwin, this scientific name was used for intelligent dogs in the late 19th century.
• Nightingale – After Florence Nightingale, this compassionate name was occasionally used in Victorian times.
• Houdini – After the famous escape artist, this name suggests cleverness and was popular in the early 20th century.
• Curie – After scientists Marie and Pierre Curie, this intellectual name has historical significance.
• Lindbergh – After aviator Charles Lindbergh, this adventurous name was popular in the 1920s-30s.
• Harriet – After Harriet Tubman, leader of the Underground Railroad, this courageous name has historical weight.
• Napoleon – After the French emperor, this ambitious name was popular for small but mighty dogs (ironic given his actual height).
• Mata Hari – The notorious spy from World War I, this exotic name suggests mystery and intrigue.
• Tesla – After inventor Nikola Tesla, this electrifying name was occasionally used for energetic dogs.
• Sacagawea – The Native American woman who guided Lewis and Clark, this pioneering name has historical significance.
• Chaplin – After silent film star Charlie Chaplin, this entertaining name was popular in the 1920s-30s.
• Livingstone – After explorer David Livingstone, this adventurous name suggests exploration and discovery.

For more historically inspired options, you might enjoy spiritual names for boys girls which includes many traditional names with deep historical roots.

Celebrity-Inspired Vintage Dog Name Ideas

Stars of yesteryear provide perfect inspiration for vintage dog names with a touch of glamour and charm.

• Bogart – After Humphrey Bogart, the iconic actor from Casablanca and The Maltese Falcon.
• Hepburn – After Audrey or Katharine Hepburn, both legendary actresses from Hollywood’s Golden Age.
• Sinatra – After Frank Sinatra, the legendary singer and member of the Rat Pack.
• Monroe – After Marilyn Monroe, the iconic blonde bombshell of 1950s Hollywood.
• Gable – After Clark Gable, the handsome “King of Hollywood” during the 1930s-40s.
• Garbo – After Greta Garbo, the mysterious and beautiful Swedish film star of the 1920s-30s.
• Elvis – After Elvis Presley, the King of Rock and Roll who rose to fame in the 1950s.
• Bacall – After Lauren Bacall, the sultry-voiced actress and wife of Humphrey Bogart.
• Astaire – After Fred Astaire, the legendary dancer and actor from Hollywood musicals.
• Dietrich – After Marlene Dietrich, the glamorous German actress and singer of the 1930s-40s.
• Crosby – After Bing Crosby, the famous crooner and actor of the 1940s-50s.
• Harlow – After Jean Harlow, the original “Blonde Bombshell” of the 1930s.
• Cooper – After Gary Cooper, the tall, strong, silent type who defined American masculinity in film.
• Hayworth – After Rita Hayworth, the legendary Love Goddess of 1940s Hollywood.
• Cagney – After James Cagney, the tough-guy actor famous for gangster roles in the 1930s-40s.
• Davis – After Bette Davis, the formidable actress known for her intense performances.
• Dean – After James Dean, the brooding rebel icon of 1950s cinema.
• Kelly – After Grace Kelly, the elegant actress who became Princess of Monaco.
• Grant – After Cary Grant, the debonair leading man known for his sophisticated charm.
• Bardot – After Brigitte Bardot, the French sex symbol of the 1950s-60s.

For more glamorous options with star quality, you might explore gothic girl names which share a dramatic, distinctive flair.

Classic Novels Inspired Vintage Dog Names

Literature provides a wealth of timeless names with depth, character, and cultural significance.

• Darcy – The proud, honorable hero from Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” (1813).
• Atticus – The wise, moral father from Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird” (1960, but set in the 1930s).
• Scout – The curious, tomboyish narrator from “To Kill a Mockingbird.”
• Emma – The well-intentioned matchmaker from Jane Austen’s novel of the same name (1815).
• Heathcliff – The brooding, passionate character from Emily Brontë’s “Wuthering Heights” (1847).
• Scarlett – The determined, resourceful heroine from Margaret Mitchell’s “Gone With the Wind” (1936).
• Pip – The orphan protagonist from Charles Dickens’ “Great Expectations” (1861).
• Daisy – The beautiful, elusive love interest from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby” (1925).
• Sherlock – The brilliant detective from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories (late 19th century).
• Jane – The independent, moral heroine from Charlotte Brontë’s “Jane Eyre” (1847).
• Gatsby – The mysterious, wealthy title character from “The Great Gatsby.”
• Ophelia – The tragic young woman from Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” (early 17th century), whose name has a haunting, poetic quality.
• Oliver – The orphan boy seeking his fortune from Charles Dickens’ “Oliver Twist” (1838).
• Huck – The free-spirited boy from Mark Twain’s “Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” (1884).
• Dorothea – The idealistic, intellectual heroine from George Eliot’s “Middlemarch” (1871-72).
• Rochester – The brooding, complex hero from Charlotte Brontë’s “Jane Eyre” (1847).
• Clarissa – The virtuous protagonist from Samuel Richardson’s influential novel (1748).
• Watson – The loyal friend and chronicler in the Sherlock Holmes stories.
• Sawyer – The mischievous, clever boy from Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Tom Sawyer” (1876).
• Elizabeth – The witty, independent heroine from Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” (1813).

For more literary-inspired options, check out literary dog names which offers additional classic character names.

Why Vintage Dog Names Are Making a Comeback

Remember how your grandparents talked about their childhood dog “Spot” or “Rex”? There’s something deeply comforting about these old-fashioned names that modern options like “Luna” or “Cooper” just don’t capture.

The nostalgia factor is huge in pet naming these days. Many of us are yearning for simpler times, and giving our dogs names that harken back to earlier eras helps us feel connected to the past. It’s like putting your pup in a bowtie or pearls—instantly distinguished!

Pop culture has played a massive role in this revival too. Shows like Bridgerton and Downton Abbey have us swooning over names like “Duchess” and “Lord Wellington.” After binging these period dramas, who wouldn’t want to call out “Lady Whistledown” at the dog park?

There’s also been a fascinating shift in naming patterns. For years, we’ve been treating our pets like children, giving them human names like Max and Bella. But now, there’s a pendulum swing back to names with historical charm and character—names that feel special rather than just human.

Did you know? A recent pet naming survey found that vintage dog names have increased by 37% since 2020, with particular growth in Victorian-era monikers.

150+ Vintage Dog Names From Different Eras

Let’s travel through time and explore some truly classic dog names from various historical periods. Whether you’re drawn to medieval monikers or early 20th-century classics, there’s something here for every vintage-loving dog parent.

Medieval Marvels

Medieval dog names often reflected their jobs, characteristics, or were just plain fun. These names from the 12th-16th centuries have a certain robust charm that modern names lack:

• Nosewise (for the curious sniffer)
• Garlik (yes, really!)
• Havegoodday (literally a walking well-wish)
• Ringwood (popular hunting dog name)
• Bragge (for the proud pup)
• Clenche (for the determined dog)
• Holdfast (perfect for the loyal companion)
• Makefare (meaning “makes a good appearance”)
• Merry (for the joyful pup)
• Sturdy (for the robust doggo)

These names have such character! Imagine calling “Havegoodday” across the dog park—you’d definitely turn some heads.

Victorian Virtues

The Victorian era (1837-1901) gave us pet names that reflected the period’s emphasis on morality and proper behavior. Many of these names were actual virtues:

• Beauty (an evergreen favorite)
• Grace (reflecting elegance)
• Patience (perhaps aspirational for many puppies!)
• Loyal (the quintessential dog trait)
• Noble (for the dignified dog)
• Prince and Princess (royal favorites)
• Duke and Duchess (aristocratic choices)
• Jewel (for the precious pet)
• Valor (for the brave companion)
• Dignity (for the serious, composed dog)

Victorian dog naming was all about aspiration—choosing names that reflected what was valued in society. Pretty different from today’s naming philosophy!

Early 20th Century Classics

The early 1900s through the 1950s gave us some of the most recognizable “classic” dog names:

• Spot (the quintessential dog name)
• Fido (from Latin for “faithful”)
• Lady (popularized by “Lady and the Tramp”)
• Rex (meaning “king” in Latin)
• Rover (the wanderer)
• Pal (simple and affectionate)
• Champ (for the winner)
• King (for the ruler of your home)
• Queenie (popular in the 1930s)
• Sport (for the playful pup)

These names tend to be short, sweet, and straight to the point—just like the no-nonsense era they came from.

Gender-Neutral Vintage Gems

Not all vintage names were gender-specific. Here are some classic options that work beautifully for any dog:

• Sparky (for the energetic dog)
• Scout (for the explorer)
• Teddy (after Theodore Roosevelt’s famous terrier)
• Lucky (a perennial favorite)
• Pepper (for the dog with spice in their personality)
• Shadow (for your faithful follower)
• Rusty (perfect for red or brown dogs)
• Patches (for the multi-colored pup)
• Peanut (for the small but mighty)
• Cricket (for the lively jumper)

These names have stood the test of time and still sound fresh today.

If you’re looking for more naming inspiration, check out some German Shepherd names for ideas that work well with vintage themes.

How to Choose the Perfect Vintage Name

Finding the right old-fashioned name for your dog is more art than science, but here are some helpful guidelines:

Match the Name to Your Dog’s Personality

Think about your dog’s temperament and traits:

• Dignified and calm? Consider Victorian names like “Noble” or “Grace”
• Playful and silly? Medieval names like “Merry” or “Japes” might fit
• Loyal and steadfast? Try “Faithful” or “Constant” (both popular Victorian choices)
• Curious and adventurous? “Scout” or “Ranger” from the early 20th century

Your dog’s personality should be the primary guide—a hyperactive terrier named “Dignity” might be an ironic mismatch!

Consider Your Dog’s Breed

Some vintage names pair naturally with certain breeds:

• St. Bernard: Bernard (obviously!), Hugo, or Magnus
• Scottish Terrier: Angus, Wallace, or Bonnie
• Dachshund: Fritz, Hans, or Gretel
• Poodle: Fifi, Pierre, or Coco
• Great Dane: Thor, Caesar, or Athena
• Corgi: Windsor, Elizabeth, or Arthur

For more breed-specific inspiration, you might enjoy browsing Corgi names for other classic options.

Name Length and Pronunciation

Practical considerations matter too:

1. Two-syllable names are often easiest for dogs to recognize (Rex-ie, Ro-ver)
2. Hard consonants (T, K, D) are easier for dogs to hear
3. Avoid names that sound like commands (Kit might sound like “sit”)
4. Practice calling the name before deciding—is it comfortable to yell at the dog park?

Remember, you’ll be saying this name thousands of times over your dog’s life, so make sure it rolls off the tongue!

Historical Naming Trends Revealed

The fascinating evolution of dog names tells us a lot about how our relationship with pets has changed over time.

The Hartsdale Pet Cemetery in New York, established in 1896, provides an incredible historical record of pet names through the ages. Their records show distinct trends:

Era	Popular Names	Naming Trend
1890s-1920s	Fido, Sport, Rover	Functional, generic “dog” names
1930s-1940s	Queenie, Lady, King	Royal/noble titles
1950s-1960s	Max, Sam, Rusty	More human, casual names
1970s-1990s	Rocky, Charlie, Molly	Fully human names
2000s-present	Vintage revival	Historical names return

Between the 1930s and 1960s, there was a fascinating evolution from “Queenie” to “Lady” to “Max” as the dominant naming patterns shifted from royal to noble to human names.

Medieval records show a completely different approach to naming. Many dogs were given names based on occupations or trades:

• Tynker (tinker)
• Hosewife (housewife)
• Smyth (smith)
• Baker
• Fletcher (arrow maker)

This reflected the working relationship people had with their dogs in that era.

Unique Vintage Names You’ve Never Heard

Some historical dog names are so unusual they deserve special mention. These aren’t just vintage—they’re true rarities:

• Hornyball — Not what you might think! This was a medieval hunting dog name referring to hunting horns.
• Purkoy — Henry VIII’s favorite dog, named from the French “pourquoi” (meaning “why”), because of the dog’s inquisitive expression.
• Synfull — A 15th-century favorite, possibly named to contrast with the pup’s innocent nature.
• Crampette — Another medieval gem, meaning “little curly one.”
• Jakke Horne — A compound name from the 1400s.
• Pharaoh — Popular with aristocrats in the 1700s.
• Mustard — A favorite of Georgian-era England.
• Sweetlips — One of George Washington’s hunting dogs.
• Vulcan — Another of Washington’s dogs, showcasing early mythological naming.

These unique names show just how creative our ancestors were when naming their four-legged friends.

Looking for truly unique options? Nature dog names often overlap with vintage choices in interesting ways.

Modern Twists on Vintage Names

Want the vintage vibe but with a contemporary edge? Try these modern spins on old classics:

Updated Spellings

• Fidough instead of Fido (for the bread-loving pup)
• Rowver instead of Rover
• Kynge instead of King (medieval spelling)
• Princeß instead of Princess (with the old-fashioned ‘ß’)
• Dewke instead of Duke

Compound Names

Combining vintage names creates something fresh yet traditional:

• Bella-Rose (combining two classics)
• Maximus Grey (adding gravitas to a familiar name)
• Duke Wellington (double nobility)
• Lady Winnifred (Victorian elegance)
• Sir Bartholomew (knightly and distinguished)

Literary-Inspired Vintage Names

Great literature provides a wealth of vintage name options:

• Darcy (Pride and Prejudice)
• Atticus (To Kill a Mockingbird)
• Scout (also from To Kill a Mockingbird)
• Heathcliff (Wuthering Heights)
• Ophelia (Hamlet)
• Oliver (Oliver Twist)
• Sawyer (Tom Sawyer)
• Sherlock (Sherlock Holmes)

These names carry both historical weight and cultural significance.

For fans of mystical literature, fantasy dog names often incorporate vintage elements in creative ways.

Resources for Vintage Name Inspiration

Want to dig deeper into historical dog names? Here are some fascinating resources:

Historical Documents

• The Master of Game (15th century) — This medieval hunting manual lists 1,065 dog names including unusual choices like Argument, Salmon, and Filthe.
• Victorian dog show records — The Kennel Club archives contain thousands of registered dog names from the 1800s.
• 1930s-40s pet insurance documents — These provide a glimpse into early 20th-century naming practices.

Museum Collections

• Museum of London — Houses medieval pet collar collections with engraved names.
• American Kennel Club Museum of the Dog — Features historical records of registered purebreds.
• The Victoria & Albert Museum — Contains paintings with named dogs from various eras.

Online Archives

• Medievalists.net — Features articles on medieval pet naming practices.
• Google Books Ngram Viewer — Search historical books for mentions of dog names.
• Digital newspaper archives — Search for “dog show winners” from different decades.

These resources can provide endless inspiration for historically accurate vintage names.

Pronunciation Guide for Tricky Vintage Names

Some historical names aren’t pronounced how they look:

• Garlik — GAR-lick (not gar-LEEK)
• Makefaire — MAH-keh-fair
• Havegoodday — HAV-good-day (run together as one word)
• Synfull — SIN-full
• Cicero — SIS-eh-ro (not KICK-er-o)
• Beauregard — BO-reh-gard

Don’t worry about perfect historical pronunciation—what matters is what feels right for you and your dog.

Final Thoughts on Vintage Dog Names

Choosing a vintage name for your dog is more than just a naming decision—it’s connecting with history and giving your pup a distinctive identity with roots that run deep.

Whether you go with a medieval marvel like “Nosewise,” a Victorian virtue like “Loyalty,” or an early 20th-century classic like “Rex,” a vintage name adds character and charm that many modern names simply can’t match.

Plus, there’s something delightful about calling out “Lord Barksalot” at the dog park and watching heads turn!

For dog lovers who appreciate classic style, British dog names offer another treasure trove of vintage-inspired options.

What’s your favorite vintage dog name? Are you drawn to the medieval oddities, Victorian virtues, or the simple classics of the early 20th century? Whatever you choose, your dog is sure to wear it with pride—and maybe even live up to its historical significance!