You know what's harder than puppy-proofing your house? Picking the perfect name for your new furry family member! When we brought Caesar home nine years ago, my husband Upahar and I spent weeks debating names. Should we go traditional? Modern? Sanskrit? The options were endless!
Now, after years of running Unleash Wellness and meeting countless pet parents, I've noticed some fascinating trends in the best dog names for 2025. Let me tell you, some of these best puppy names are as creative as my mother's excuses for overfeeding treats to Caesar!
Traditional Indian Names Making a Comeback
Would you believe that some of the best dog names in 2025 are straight from our cultural heritage? Names like Krishna, Arjun, and Shiva are trending among pet parents who want to give their pups a touch of tradition. Just last week, I met an adorable Indie pup named Kabir at our local park - his philosophical expression totally matched his name!
Food-Inspired Best Puppy Names
Here's something that'll make you smile - food-inspired names are becoming some of the best dog names this year. I'm seeing more pups named after Indian sweets and snacks than ever before. Ladoo, Pista, Kaju, and even Biryani! (Yes, someone actually named their Husky 'Biryani' because he steals food just like my Caesar used to before we got his diet sorted with JOLLY GUT!)
Bollywood-Inspired Choices
Speaking of trending best dog names, Bollywood inspiration is huge this year! From Kabir (Singh, not the philosopher this time!) to Simba, pet parents are naming their furry stars after their favorite film characters. Though I have to say, watching someone call out "Mogambo" at the dog park last Sunday was quite the entertainment!
Best Puppy Names for Different Personalities
Sometimes the best dog names come from your pup's personality. Caesar got his name because of his regal attitude - you should've seen him as a puppy, strutting around like he owned our house from day one! I've noticed that many of the best puppy names in 2025 reflect character traits: Luna for the dreamers, Rocky for the tough ones, and Raja for the ones who rule their homes (and their parents' hearts).
Modern International Favorites
While Indian names are popular, some of the best dog names this year have an international flavor. Names like Bella, Max, and Charlie remain favorites. Though I have to admit, hearing "Bruno" called out at the park still makes Caesar turn his head - I think he's secretly a fan of Bruno Mars!
Nature-Inspired Best Dog Names
Here's a growing trend in best puppy names - nature inspiration! Names like River, Storm, and Mountain are gaining popularity. Just yesterday, at our vet clinic, I met a majestic German Shepherd named Badal because he was born during the monsoon. How perfect is that?
Tips for Choosing the Best Dog Names
After years of meeting pets and their parents, here's what I've learned about picking the best dog names:
Choose something you won't be embarrassed to call out in public (learned this from a friend who regretted naming her dog "Sexy" - imagine shouting that at the park!)
Consider your pup's personality - Caesar lives up to his name with his commanding presence, especially when demanding his evening VITAM PAWS supplement!
Keep it simple enough that your dog can recognize it easily. Trust me, a complicated name might sound fancy, but try calling it repeatedly when your pup is having a zoomies moment!
A Final Note on Best Dog Names
Remember, whether you pick from the trendiest best puppy names of 2025 or go with something completely unique, the perfect name is one that makes both you and your furry friend happy. After all, you'll be using it countless times - during cuddles, vet visits, and yes, even those moments when they've made a mess (TUDRY came in handy many times during Caesar's mud-loving phase!).
And hey, if you're still struggling to pick between the best dog names on your list, try this: say each name out loud while giving treats. The one that feels most natural - that's your winner! Just don't be like me and accidentally use all your treats during the naming process - Caesar still gives me that "remember when" look sometimes!
