Most Interesting Dog Names From Movies

Sharing is caring!

Cruella de Vil might hate dogs, just as much as John Wick loves his, and not nearly as much as The Lady loves The Trump.

I don’t know about you, but I love my dog too, and if there is a puppy in the movie – it is my favorite character for sure. From the famous Beverly Hills Chihuahua to Snow Dogs Max, to the mystical dog-like creatures in movies like Harry Potter, to a loveable Golden Retriever in a romantic family movie – we love them all.

It’s a fact: The dog names from movies are the most commonly remembered names of all of the characters.

Whether you enjoy contemporary rom-coms, terrifying thrillers, or classic movies from the Golden Age of Cinema, many of the world’s most beloved movies are filled with great canine names. Maybe even your favorite movie?

The great struggle of naming a dog is known to all puppy parents. Finding a name for your dog that is both unique and familiar can be accomplished by naming it after a movie character, whether they are canine or not. Furthermore, many of the movie-stars names and nicknames can make an interesting dog’s name. Therefore, the sky is the limit when it comes to dog name inspiration in movies.

Stick with us to find some interesting dog names from movies or remember the forgotten ones!

Choosing the Perfect Dog Name for Your Puppy – Famous Dog Names

Your to-do list could seem never-ending when you’re adding a furry family member. You can overlook the most crucial step in bringing home a dog after spending hours selecting the most comfortable bed, selecting the healthiest food, and loading up on their toy collection: picking the ideal dog name.

Pick a name that has special importance to your family. It may involve giving your dog a fictional character’s name.

Also, you should think about names with harsh consonants and one to two syllables. Your dog will find it much simpler to hear and grasp these dog names.

Pick a name that is simple to pronounce and spell. This name will be used by your family, friends, and doctor for many years.

Avoid picking a name for your new dog that can be interpreted as embarrassing or unpleasant. Don’t call your dog’s name in the park if it would make you feel uncomfortable.

Additionally, you should pick a name that is straightforward to say but does not rhyme or seem too close to the name of another creature or even a common command. If not, your dog could become confused when being trained.

However, this does not have to mean that you can’t use creative pet names!

If you’re having problems thinking of names – we have your back!

Dog Names of Doggy Actors

There is a group of movie stars who are never nominated for awards. They are never the subject of yellow page rumors and are never recognized in public. We all know who we’re talking about – the canine actors. 

Famous dogs in movies have warmed our hearts and brightened up the screen since the dawn of cinema. These dogs did that in a way that few other performers and actresses have never been able to match.

As some of the best-trained canines in the world, these dog performers can perform a variety of actions and tricks on command. They take on roles that range from intrepid sidekicks to prominent heroes. There’s something that never gets old about a dog’s ability to give a story depth and reliability.

Here are some of the many famous dogs, and the name of the dog actors and their character names that could serve you as a great inspiration:

  • Terry – “Toto” (“The Wizard of Oz’s”)

One example of a great canine actor is Terry, the Cairn Terrier. Despite the fact that hundreds of dogs applied, the directors were won over by the well-mannered, charming Terry. As a result, “The Wizard of Oz’s” iconic character Toto was created. After the movie came out, Terry was formally given the name “Toto” which became one of the most used dog names.

  • Pal – “Lassie” (“Lassie”)

Lassie is still one of the most well-known canine characters from the movie, loved by countless admirers throughout the years and readily identifiable to the majority of moviegoers. The first dog to play Lassie, the Collie Pal, is largely responsible for the character’s iconic stature because of his performance in MGM’s 1943 film “Lassie Come Home.”

Lassie was once regarded as the most well-known girl dog. She was a cherished family dog that, most of the time, sought adventure and rescued the day. This name still holds the number one place for most famous dog names from movies.

  • Spike- “Old Yeller” (“Old Yeller”)

Even after more than 60 years, “Old Yeller” is still regarded by fans across generations as one of the most recognizable dog movies ever made. It is certainly the saddest and most tragic one too. Spike was a Mastiff/Labrador Retriever Mix. As a shelter dog, he got his big break after being saved by the actor and trainer.

In addition, this adopted stray also starred in a number of significant television and film projects, such as The Mickey Mouse Club.

  • Blair – “Rover” (“Rescued by Rover”)

The first doggy actor graced the silver screen in 1905, did you know? The British silent film “Rescued by Rover” is largely regarded as having contributed to the development of cinema as a true art form. A Collie named Blair, who played the title character Rover, is known as the first canine cinema star in history.

Since Blair was the renowned producer of the movie’s family dog, his career was accidental.

  • Strongheart (“White Fang”)

German Shepherd by the name of Etzel von Oeringen, also known as Strongheart, began his career in Berlin as a police dog before joining the German Red Cross during World War II. He starred in “White Fang,” the first movie adaptation of Jack London’s novel.

Strongheart captured fans’ hearts and minds throughout the early 1920s, which helped to Americanize the German Shepherd dog breed.

  • Layla / Chico / Forrest – “Hachi” (“Hachi, A Dog’s Story”)

Many movies employ multiple dogs to perform different roles, in addition to understudies and stunt dogs. Characters experience the same aging, change, and bold behaviors that their human counterparts do. In actuality, multiple canines performed the roles of some of your favorite canine characters.

One example of that is Hachi from “Hachi, A Dog’s Story” which is played by a Japanese Akita Inu. Actually, it is played by three different Akitas Layla, Chico, and Forrest.

  • Mushu – “Frank” (“Men In Black”)

In 1997’s summer movie “Men In Black”, starring A-listers Will Smith and Tommy Lee Jones, a little pug named Mushu with impeccable comedic timing ended up taking the spotlight. The movie was an incredible journey with him in his role as Frank the Pug. He is still one of the most famous dogs in the movie culture.

Names of Cartoon Dog Characters

  • Slinky Dog (“Toy Story”)

Because he is animated and a toy, Slinky isn’t technically a real dog, but he still counts. Moreover, he is simply so endearing! Slinky deserves to be on this list since he is as devoted and loving as any dog, and without him “Toy Story” wouldn’t be it. It can be a great addition to the funny dog names lists.

  • Lady and Tramp (“Lady and the Tramp”)

In this beloved Disney classic, the two main dogs—Lady, a Cocker Spaniel, and Tramp, maybe a mixed breed with some Terrier in it—share pasta and passion. This movie and its dogs will always be timeless for its spaghetti sequence.

  • Dug (“Up”)

How adored is Dug from Pixar’s “Up” among the general public? A special collar on Dug, a Golden Retriever, allows him to communicate. If given the opportunity, any dog would speak in a manner similar to his. He is one of the nicest portions of the film since he is cute, energetic, and lively, such a wonder dog.

  • Chase (“Paw Patrol”)

A German Shepherd named Chase in “Paw Patrol” is an athletic character that wants to be in charge. He also transforms into a spy dog in addition to being a police and traffic cop dog.

His primary responsibility is to operate the traffic vehicle and maintain order. Like most German Shepherds, he is a serious canine. Also, he enjoys being in control and is allergic to cats and feathers.

  • Pluto (“The Chain Gang”)

Pluto is Mickey Mouses’ canine companion. This yellow dog deserves praise for truly defying expectations and accepting who he is regardless of Hollywood norms, though. Pluto is one of the most famous dog names in movies.

As Mickey Mouse’s dog, Pluto made his debut in 1930 and quickly became a fan favorite. He is a sharp, well-trained Bloodhound/Basset hound, although he occasionally gets into mischief.

Some people could question whether Goofy is a dog in the universe of Walt Disney, but he seems more like a person—at least in comparison to Pluto! Nevertheless, Bill Farmer currently serves as their common voice actor.

  • Speck (“Pee Wee’s Big Adventure”)

In 1985, Tim Burton made his feature picture directing debut with the adventure comedy Pee-Big wee’s Adventure. Pee Wee’s canine companion is a lovely Bichon Frise – Speck. This all-time favorite movie character, Speck has been on the screen for a long time.

  • Snoopy (“Peanuts”)

Given how frequently the “Peanuts” gang appears in media, it was challenging to identify this one. The “Peanuts” is originally a comic strip, but the TV movies—particularly the Christmas special—made the characters famous. Snoopy, a Beagle who is Charlie Brown’s pet, is highly independent and enjoys escaping to his imaginary world in his imagination. It would be one of the best dog names for your new pet.

  • Scooby-Doo (“Scooby-Doo, Where Are You!”)

Scooby-Doo might be considered a TV show or a movie, depending on your generation. He is a Great Dane that speaks similarly to Astro from “The Jetsons” (and who was voiced by the same actor, Don Messick, for many years)!

Known for being a scaredy-cat, Scooby might not be the ideal candidate to solve monster-related riddles. Having said that, this Great Dane has spent more than 50 years exposing monsters!

  • Astro (“The Jetsons”)

In the cartoon series “The Jetsons,” a family was shown residing in space in the year 2062. The beloved family dog was named Astro. He was a witty and valuable member of the Jetson family and a Great Dane. His signature phrase is “Ruh-roh.”

There is a world where the dog is the star, even in the far future. Loveable Astro kept his family happy by acting as an emotional target for George and a devoted friend to Elroy. Astro successfully charmed his way into the family by defeating an electronic fake.

  • Clifford (“Clifford the Big Red Dog”)

Clifford is the largest of the big dogs, and his size just adds to his appeal. Clifford is affectionate, devoted, and essentially the dog-horse combination you’ve been looking for.

Clifford first appeared in 1963 in Norman Bridwell’s children’s books of the same name, which were later adapted into a cartoon series that ran from 2000 to 2003. Clifford was a lovable huge red dog that always tried to do the right thing. Additionally, it fits in the list of great dog names.

  • Balto (“Balto”)

The 1995 animated adventure movie is largely based on the true story of the dog of the same name that assisted in saving diphtheria-infected children during the 1925 serum run to Nome.

Despite being mostly animated, the movie has live-action opening and closing segments.

Despite the movie’s financial failure (it was overshadowed by the success of Disney and Pixar’s first computer-animated film Toy Story) and mixed critical reception, its subsequent home video sales made up for it. To this day this is still one of the most famous dog names from movies.

Names of Dog Characters

  • Marley (“Marley and Me”)

Marley, a Labrador Retriever, causes his family all kinds of trouble—but in the greatest way possible. He may not be as well-trained as he should be and may be a little high-strung and energetic, but he still provides his movie family with a ton of love and laughter. This movie is also a recognized sob-fest.

  • Milo (“The Mask”)

What happens when Jim Carrey and a Jack Russell Terrier appear in the same film? Huge amounts of energy and humor! Milo, a canine with superior intelligence, assists Jim Carrey’s Stanley persona when he encounters difficulties.

  • Fly (“Babe”)

Although Babe is about a pig, Fly, one of the dogs, is a great addition to the movie. A Border Collie named Fly adopts the piglet Babe and essentially takes on the role of his mother. She imparts her knowledge of sheepherding to Babe while also picking up some tips from her pet sheep pig. Award-winning “Babe” is unquestionably a great family film.

  • Hooch (“Turner and Hooch”)

Turner, played by the amazing Tom Hanks, is a detective working for the Dogue de Bordeaux named Hooch. Turner is matched with Hooch, a slobbery and rowdy dog, much to his disgust, because Hooch was a witness to a crime. It’s a funny movie, and you can’t go wrong with Tom Hanks and a dog that resembles a Mastiff together!

On the other hand, Turner and Hooch would make great dog names for sibling pets.

  • Bruiser (“Legally Blonde”)

We absolutely love watching Elle Woods’ adorable little Chihuahua, Bruiser, even if she is the main subject of these films.

It is one of the most famous names for Chihuahuas around the world, including the famous Tinkerbell, Paris Hilton’s chihuahua, and the Beverly Hills Chihuahua.

In “Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde,” Bruiser plays a bigger part thanks to a reunion with his long-lost mother and a romance with Leslie, a Rottweiler.

  • Benji (“Benji”)

In the 1970s, Benji was quite the phenomenon! This cute mongrel appeared in several well-known movies in the 1970s and is one of the only dogs on this list that is not purebred.

Benji, like many of the other canines in this post, rescues kidnapped children. The globe requires more Benjis! You can find this interesting name in every list of movie-inspired famous dog names.

  • Comet (“Full House”)

A popular show about a sizable family all residing under one roof was called “Full House.” Comet wasn’t the focus of the concert, but this Golden Retriever had a big impression nonetheless. As a crucial member of the Tanner family, Comet was a stunning Golden Retriever who first appeared in the third season of the television show.

  • Eddie (“Frasier”)

Kelsey Grammer played the titular role in the Emmy-winning television series “Frasier”. For the first six seasons, Moose the dog played Eddie, a wire-haired Jack Russell Terrier. After he retired, his son Enzo played the final four seasons in his place.

  • Beethoven (“Beethoven”)

A list of well-known movie dogs is incomplete without Beethoven the St. Bernard. Many people grew up enjoying this amusing film featuring the big, clumsy, and slobbery dog who wins the affection of his family. Four sequels centered on the endearing Beethoven were produced since this film was so well-liked. Today it is one of the most used dog names for St. Bernards.

Names of Non-Canine Characters

Female Dog Names from Movie Characters

Whether your dog is a genteel, southern beauty, or a rough-and-tumble kind of girl, the ladies of the silver screen offer plenty of name ideas. From Disney movies to true horror stories- they all have a great female character worth naming your dog after.

Find the perfect famous dog names for your own personal heroine based on one of these iconic female roles.

  • Arwen (“The Lord of the Rings”) 
  • Buttercup (“The Princess Bride”)
  • Hermione (“Harry Potter”)
  • Juno (“Juno”)
  • Ginny (“Harry Potter”) 
  • Sansa (“Game of Thrones”)
  • Bridget (“Bridget Jones’s Diary”)
  • Baby (“Dirty Dancing”)
  • Vivian (“Pretty Woman”)
  • Belle (“Beauty and the Beast”)
  • Diana (“Wonder Woman”)
  • Dorothy (“The Wizard of Oz”)
  • Holly (“Breakfast at Tiffany’s”)
  • Jules (“Pulp Fiction”)
  • Thelma (“Thelma and Louise”)
  • Wednesday (“The Addams Family”)
  • Raya (“Raya and the Last Dragon”)
  • Esmerelda (“The Hunchback of Notre Dame”)
  • Elle (“Legally Blonde”)
  • Jo (“Little Women”)
  • Elsa (“Frozen”)
  • Leia (“Star Wars”)

Male Dog Names from Movie Characters

Looking for the ideal name for your handsome new guy? You only need to look at a few of Hollywood’s most beloved male movie characters.

  • Indiana (“Indiana Jones”)
  • Tyler (“Fight Club”)
  • Marty (“Back to the Future”)
  • Vito (“The Godfather”)
  • Lilo (“Lilo and Stitch”)
  • Bing Bong (“Inside Out”)
  • Red (“The Shawshank Redemption”)
  • Chuck (“Cast Away”)
  • Grinch (“How The Grinch Stole Christmas”)
  • Luke Skywalker (“Star Wars”)
  • Frodo (“Lord of the Rings”)
  • Jack Sparrow (“Pirates of the Caribbean”)
  • Gimli (“Lord of the Rings”)
  • Darcy (“Pride and Prejudice”)
  • Thor (“Avengers”) 
  • Owen (“Jurassic World”)
  • Noah (“The Notebook”) 
  • Neville ( “Harry Potter”)
  • Sebastian (“La La Land”) 
  • Pippin (“Lord of the Rings”)
  • Peeta (“The Hunger Games”) 
  • Loki (“Avengers”)
  • Laurie (“Little Women”)
  • Gatsby (“The Great Gatsby”)
  • George (“It’s A Wonderful Life”) 
  • Atticus (“To Kill A Mockingbird”)
  • Pooh (“Winnie the Pooh”)
  • Baymax (“Big Hero 6”)
  • Forky (“Toy Story”)
  • Remy (“Ratatouille”)
  • Buzzlight (“Toy Story”)
  • Simba (“Lion King”)
  • Forrest (“Forrest Gump”)
  • Neo (“The Matrix”)
  • Chewbacca/Chewy (“Star Wars”)
  • Theodore (“Her”)
  • Kirk (“Star Trek”)  
  • Skip (“My Dog Skip”)
  • Bud (“Air Bud”)

Dog Names – A Night at the Movies

None of the character dog names particularly appeal to you? Instead, give one of these fantastic movie night-inspired names a try.

  • Slurpee
  • Blockbuster
  • Popcorn
  • Candy
  • Nacho
  • Ticket

Hollywood dog names

It’s not necessary to choose your dog a name based on a figure from a book or television show. The names of your preferred actors and actresses are another option.

Here are some well-known movie celebrities that sound great as dog names to start:

  • Bill (Murray)
  • Brad (Pitt)
  • Audrey (Hepburn)
  • Denzel (Washington)
  • Dustin (Hoffman)
  • Grace (Kelly)
  • Halle (Berry)
  • Alan (Rickman)
  • Charlize (Theron)
  • Clint (Eastwood)
  • Al (Pacino)
  • Hugh (Jackman)
  • Jack (Nicholson)
  • Jamie (Foxx)
  • Jeff (Bridges)
  • Jim (Carrey)
  • Johnny (Depp)
  • Kirk (Douglas)
  • Liam (Neeson)
  • Marlon (Brando)
  • Mel (Gibson)
  • Morgan (Freeman)
  • Liv (Tyler)
  • Meryl (Streep)
  • Susan (Sarandon)
  • Samuel (L. Jackson)
  • Sean (Connery)
  • Steve (McQueen)
  • Tom (Hanks)
  • Helen (Mirren)
  • Judy (Garland)
  • Kate (Winslet)
  • Keira (Knightley)
  • Viola (Davis)

To Sum Up

Although picking a dog name is not an easy task, it will be a huge part of the dog’s life here is a lot of inspiration from your favorite movie, books, comics, and pop culture.

We sincerely hope that this list has inspired you with some fresh, fantastic dog name suggestions. The biggest dog, smallest fur baby, rescued canine companions, or little spoiled new pets – in this list there are suggestions for dog names for all of them. Which of these dog names did you like best?

Do you have a puppy named after a dog from a movie? Which of these famous dog names from a film are you going to give your pet? Tell us in the comments section below!

References:

  1. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/dog-movie-stars-canine-actors/

Related topics: English dog names

*photo by Krakenimages.com – depositphotos