Luna, Teddy, and Hugo Top the Charts as Australians Favour Human Names for Pets
By Robert Heyward
Pet Insurance Australia has unveiled the nation’s most popular pet names for 2024, revealing a growing trend of giving traditional human names to beloved furry friends.
“Luna, a name with celestial and mythological roots, is a top choice among dog and cat owners,” says Nadia Crighton of Pet Insurance Australia. “Similarly, Teddy, derived from Edward or Theodore, and Hugo, a name popular worldwide, show how human names have transcended into pet naming conventions.”
Top Pet Names of 2024
| Top 10 Female Dog Names |
Top 10 Male Dog Names |
Top 10 Female Cat Names |
Top 10 Male Cat Names |
- Luna
- Daisy
- Coco
- Nala
- Lola
- Winnie
- Molly
- Millie
- Bella
- Ruby
|
- Teddy
- Milo
- Leo
- Alfie
- Archie
- Charlie
- Rocky
- Bear
- Henry
- Hugo
|
- Luna
- Minnie
- Molly
- Coco
- Lucy
- Milly
- Penny
- Pepper
- Violet
- Angel
|
- Hugo
- Alfie
- Archie
- Milo
- Odin
- Prince
- Rocket
- Apollo
- Barney
- Beau
|
Human Names Strengthen Bonds
“It’s fascinating to see how traditional human names have become a staple for pets,” says Crighton. “Names like Luna and Teddy highlight a growing trend of treating pets as integral family members, reflecting the emotional depth of the pet-owner relationship.”
Luna, a long-standing favourite among female dog names, retains its top spot for another year, while adventurous and descriptive names like Rocket and nature-inspired Penny are making waves in the cat-naming arena.
Naming Tips for New Pet Owners
With the arrival of puppy season, choosing the perfect name can be an exciting yet challenging task. Pet Insurance Australia offers the following tips to help:
- Keep It Simple: Choose names with one or two syllables for easier recognition.
- Avoid Command Confusion: Steer clear of names that sound similar to commands like “Sit” or “Stay.”
- Reflect Their Personality: Spend time observing your new pet’s traits before deciding on a name.
Creative Inspiration for Pet Names
For those seeking unique or meaningful names, consider these sources:
- Literature and Mythology: Names like “Athena,” “Hercules,” or “Gatsby” offer distinctive flair.
- Nature-Inspired Names: Options like “Willow,” “River,” or “Aspen” evoke natural beauty.
- Cultural References: Explore names from different languages or cultures, such as “Kai” or “Amara.”
The Deeper Meaning Behind Human Names for Pets
“This trend underscores a societal shift in how we perceive our pets,” says Crighton. “By assigning them human names, we emphasise their role as cherished members of the family, elevating the connection and companionship they bring.”
As Australians continue to embrace human names for their pets, the naming process has become a way to celebrate the individuality of each furry friend.
Whether inspired by a name’s meaning, cultural significance, or personal connection, choosing the perfect name is a wonderful step in building a lifelong bond with your new companion.
For more information or advice, visit Pet Insurance Australia.
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