Popular Scottish Dog Names And Their Meanings

Why name your dog? Because a good name is the first step to building a strong bond with your new furry friend. It’s also a way to reflect their personality and create an identity for them.

It can be tough to choose the perfect name with so many options out there. However, if you’re looking for something unique, you might want to consider Scottish dog names. There are many options, from popular choices like Brodie and Bonnie to lesser-known gems like Angus and Lachlan.

And each one comes with its own meaning and history. So whether you’re looking for a strong, regal name for your Great Dane or a playful option for your Pomeranian, there’s sure to be a Scottish dog name that’s perfect for your pup.

How to Choose the Best Name For Your Best Friend

Choosing a name for your new dog is an important decision. After all, this is the name they’ll be known for the rest of their lives.

There are a few things dog owners need to keep in mind when choosing a name. First, consider your dog’s personality. Is it playful and energetic? Mellow and laid-back? Serious and regal? Knowing your dog’s personality will help you narrow down your choices.

Choose a unique, but cute dog name for your puppy. “Cooper” was the name given to our adopted dog. Because he was still young, we decided to change his name since the name “Cooper” is quite popular in our neighborhood. He would get confused when someone else was calling his name.

It should be neither too long nor too short. Two-syllable names and three syllables names are ideal, according to experts. So you avoid confusing your pup and making the training more difficult than it has to be this way.

Next, think about what kind of name you want. Are you looking for something short and sweet? Or something that’s a little longer and more unique? Once you’ve decided on the style of name you’re after, it’s time to start brainstorming ideas.

Finally, the dog’s name should not be similar to orders or phrases you use daily since this would confuse them. For instance, ‘Bo’ and ‘No’ are almost identical.

We’ve compiled a list of some of the best Scottish dog names to get you started. From popular picks to unique finds, there’s sure to be a perfect name for your pup.

When picking from our list of Scottish dog names, it’s worthwhile to consider several categories. Whether you’re looking for female dogs or male dogs, seeing what they look like might help you come up with the perfect name.

Male Scottish Dog Names 

  • Angus: “one strength”- strong and powerful.
  • Brodie: “ditch” or “muddy place”- playful and mischievous.
  • Cameron: “crooked nose”- unusual or distinctive appearance.
  • Clyde: “from the River Clyde”- calm and gentle.
  • Duncan: “dark warrior”- brave and courageous.
  • Finn: “white”- snow-white.
  • Finlay: “fair-haired warrior”- light-colored fur.
  • Fraser: “strawberry”- a red-haired dog.
  • Gavin: “white hawk”- regal and dignified.
  • Gray: “gray-haired”- older dog or one with silver or gray fur.
  • Gordon: “spacious fort”- brave little pup.
  • Hector: “defender”- loyal and protective.
  • Hugh: “mind” or “intellect”- smart dog.
  • Lachlan: “like a lake”- calm and peaceful.
  • Malcolm: “disciple of Saint Columba”- an excellent option for a religious dog owner.
  • Neil: “champion”- strong and powerful.
  • Nigel: “champion”- best-of-breed.
  • Owen: “well-born”- noble and regal.
  • Quinn: “wise”- intelligent puppy.
  • Rory: “red king”- confident and bold.
  • Ross: “headland”- adventurous and outdoorsy.
  • Ruaridh: “red king”- confident and bold.
  • Stewart: “steward”- loyal and reliable.
  • Tavish: “twin”- a close bond between you and your pup.
  • Torin: “chief”- strong and powerful.
  • Wallace: “foreigner”- unusual or distinct appearance.
  • Weir: “lives near the river”- active and playful dog who loves to swim.
  • Willow: “slender and graceful”- slender and elegant.

Female Scottish Dog Names 

  • Aberdeen: “from the mouth of the river”- loves to swim or play in the water.
  • Bonnie: “pretty”- beautiful and graceful doggy.
  • Campbell: “crooked mouth”- unusual or distinctive appearance in the mouth.
  • Celeste: “heavenly”- graceful and elegant dog.
  • Dundee: “from the dark water”- loves to swim.
  • Fiona: “fair”- fair-haired or light-colored pup.
  • Glasgow: “grey”- predominant gray color.
  • Harper: “son of a harp player”- the owner is musical or artistic.
  • Inverness: “from the river mouth”- lives near the river.
  • Kinross: “head and woods”- active and playful dog who loves the woods.
  • Kyle: “narrow strait”- slender and graceful dog.
  • Lassie: “young girl”-beautiful and graceful
  • Lini: “pool”- loves to play in the water.
  • Lochlan: “from the land of lakes”- loves to swim or play in the water.
  • Lorna: “fiery”- confident and bold pup.
  • Mackenzie: “comely”- cute female canine.
  • Meara: “speckled”- a lot of spots on its body.
  • Mirren: “beloved”- adored and loved by all.
  • Moira: “bitter”- strong and assertive personality.
  • Morag: “great”- imposing and large dog.
  • Perth: “thicket of trees”- loves to play outdoors.
  • Raven: “blackbird”- black or dark-colored dog.
  • Rowan: “red-haired”- red or ginger-colored fur.
  • Selkie: “seal”- elegant appearance.
  • Skye: “cloud”- loves to run and play.
  • Stirling: “she knows”- loyal and reliable dog.
  • Talisker: “of the storm”- has an attitude.
  • Tara: “hill or star”- the center of attention.
  • Thistle: “prickly”- independent and robust dog.

Puppy Names From Famous Scottish People and Film

If you’re looking for a Scottish dog name, why not choose one from a famous Scottish person? Here are some ideas:

  • Guinness: After Alec Guinness, a legendary actor who starred in many classic films, including “Bridge on the River Kwai” and “Lawrence of Arabia.”
  • Murray: Andy Murray, a world-renowned tennis player who has won Wimbledon, the US Open, and the Olympic Gold Medal.
  • Connolly: Billy Connolly, a beloved comedian and actor known for his hilariously observational stand-up routine.
  • Connery: Sean Connery, the iconic actor who played James Bond in seven films.
  • Forster: EM Forster, a celebrated author whose novels include “A Room with a View” and “Howards End.”
  • Highlander: A Scottish film starring Christopher Lambert and Sean Connery.
  • Ness or Nessie: Loch Ness, a large freshwater lake in Scotland that is home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster.
  • Outlander: A popular TV series set in 18th century Scotland.
  • Braveheart: A film about Scottish warrior William Wallace, starring Mel Gibson.
  • Rob Roy: A historical figure from the 18th century who was known as the ” robin hood of Scotland.”
  • Sherlock: Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, who created his famous detective brought to life on the big screen.

These are just a few of the many famous Scottish people who you could name your dog after. So take your pick and find the perfect Scottish name for your furry friend!

Scottish Pup Names That Are Inspired by Scottish Cuisine and Drinks and Dances

  • Ceilidh: A style of traditional Scottish dancing
  • Haggis: A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep’s stomach, liver, and lungs.
  • Whisky: A type of alcoholic beverage.
  • Scotch: A type of whisky.
  • Lager: A type of beer.
  • Smokie: smoked haddock.
  • Chips: What a Scottish person would refer to as fries.
  • Clootie: Scottish dumpling.
  • Cranachan: A traditional Scottish dessert.
  • Bridie: A meaty pastry.
  • Ale: A type of beer that is popular in Scotland.

If you’re looking for the perfect name for your new Scottish dog, look no further than this list of Scottish Dog Names That Are Inspired by Scottish Cuisine and Drinks! From Haggis to Whisky, these names are sure to reflect your pup.

Dog Names That are From Scottish Geography

There are many beautiful places in Scotland, making it the perfect place to find a unique name for your new dog. Here are some ideas:

  • Edinburgh: The capital city of Scotland, known for its medieval Old Town and stunning castle.
  • Glasgow: The largest city in Scotland, known for its vibrant culture and lively nightlife.
  • Aberdeen: A city on the northeast coast of Scotland, known for its sandy beaches and picturesque harbor.
  • Inverness: A city in the Scottish Highlands known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
  • Perth: A city in central Scotland known for its history and heritage.
  • Stirling: A city in central Scotland, home to Stirling Castle.
  • Dundee: A city in northeast Scotland known for its lively waterfront and museums.
  • Orkney: An archipelago off the north coast of Scotland, known for its dramatic landscapes and wildlife.
  • Shetland: An archipelago off the northeast coast of Scotland, known for its rugged coastline and beautiful beaches.
  • Cairngorms: A mountain range in the Scottish Highlands, home to many outdoor activities.
  • Loch Ness: A large freshwater lake in the Scottish Highlands, home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster.

Whether you’re looking for a name for your new Scottish dog or just want to find a unique name for your pup, this list of Dog Names That are From Scottish Geography is sure to have the perfect name for your furry friend!

Scottish Dog Names Inspired From Clans

Scottish names have a long and illustrious history, with many people worldwide of Scottish descent proudly claiming their surname or identifying which Scottish clan they belong to. While numerous Scottish surnames and clans are available, here are a few of the most popular to get you started.

  • MacDonald: The largest of the Highland clans, the MacDonalds are known for their fierce loyalty and bravery.
  • MacLean: A clan with a long and storied history, the MacLeans were once one of the most powerful clans in Scotland.
  • Campbell: One of the most prominent Scottish clans, the Campbells have a long and rich history.
  • Stewart: The royal clan of Scotland, the Stewarts have held the throne on multiple occasions.
  • Douglas: A powerful and influential clan, the Douglases have played a significant role in Scottish history.
  • Brodie: A clan with a long and storied history, the Brodies were once one of the most powerful clans in Scotland.
  • Fraser: The Frasers were formerly one of the most powerful clans in Scotland and were known for their long and illustrious history.
  • Sinclair: The Sinclairs are a clan with a rich history and a strong connection to the Royal Family.

Whether you’re looking for cute Scottish dog names for your new dog or just want to find  unique Scottish dog names for your pup, this list of Dog Names From Scottish Clans is sure to have the perfect name for your furry friend!

Top Scottish Dog Breeds

While this isn’t the first thing that springs to mind, Scotland has a long history of developing muscular, active canines that are now some of the most popular pets in households today.

Scottish dog names are becoming increasingly popular. In fact, several of the most well-known canine breeds were developed in Scotland. So if you have a Scottish dog, whether listed below or not, you should think about Scottish dog names.

  • Dandie Dinmont Terrier: Friendly and easygoing attitude
  • Smooth Collie: Friendly temperament and agile
  • Gordon Setter: Playful and loving
  • Golden Retriever: loyal, family-friendly, and pleasant
  • Shetland Sheepdog: Their long, feathery coat and intellect
  • Bloodhound: long ears, droopy faces, and an extraordinary sense of smell
  • Scottish Deerhound: A kind and gentle giant
  • Border Terrier: Quick and spry
  • Cairn Terrier: Bravery, perseverance (and Hollywood royalty)
  • Skye Terrier: Fast, daring, and hairy
  • Scottish Terrier: Being quick and exuberant
  • West Highland White Terrier: Those pointy ears and white coat
  • Border Collie: intelligent and obedient
  • Bearded Collie: Enthusiasm and a happy demeanor
  • Rough Collie: fluffy coat and huge nose (Lassie)

Conclusion

When choosing a name for your dog, it’s essential to consider its meaning. After all, this is something that will be with your dog for its entire life. These are just a few ideas to get you started.

There are endless possibilities when it comes to Scottish dog names. So take your time, choose wisely, have fun, and be creative!

*photo by fxquadro-depositphotos