As 2018 draws to a close, it’s time to ponder one of the most pressing questions any new dog owner faces – ‘what should I call my dog!?’ The last few years have seen a surge in pet parents calling their dogs increasingly human names – Bob, Dave and Phil and Sharon all come to mind.
New research from Rover.com, the dog walking and sitting service, reveals that Alfie and Bella are the most popular dog names in the UK, both of which have also been popular baby names this year.
THE TOP DOG NAMES FOR 2018
| # | Male dog name | Female dog name |
| 1 | Alfie | Bella |
| 2 | Charlie | Poppy |
| 3 | Max | Lola |
| 4 | Milo | Luna |
| 5 | Teddy | Molly |
| 6 | Buddy | Daisy |
| 7 | Oscar | Ruby |
| 8 | Bailey | Coco |
| 9 | Archie | Rosie |
| 10 | Dexter | Millie |
With two royal weddings, a royal baby and a royal pregnancy this year, it’s no surprise that royal fever has also influenced pet owners when it comes to naming their pup. There was a 67% increase in dogs named both Charles and William this year, as well as an 83% uplift in ‘King’.
It also seems that pet parents have been hit with movie fever with two of 2019’s most hotly anticipated films – The Lion King and Toy Story – inspired dog owners, with an 83% increase in pups called Nala (now ranking #19), as well as 15% more Simba’s (#61) and 11% more Woody’s (#44).
But it’s not just Disney films that are proving popular. Recent Marvel movies have inspired Brits too, with a 21% increase in people calling their dog Logan and 20% more owners opting for Loki (#39).
Does your pup’s name make this list? Tell us about the story behind your dog’s name in the comments below!
