Traditional pet names are being replaced by human monikers, with Dennis, Kevin, Gary, Dorothy and Barbara among the top choices for cats and dogs in 2025, according to new data from Pet Health Club. The analysis, based on over 800 vet practices across the UK, also reveals a surge in celebrity-inspired names such as Doja, Elvis, Drake, Shakira and Kendall, as well as full names like Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, Harry Styles and Miley Cyrus.
Bella remains the most popular name for dogs, while Luna tops the list for cats. Character names from films, books and video games are also prevalent, with Loki, Thor, Leia, Bilbo, Frodo, Zelda, Batman, Hermione, Chewbacca, Hulk and Pikachu all making the top 20. Pet owners have also shown a sense of humour, with witty names like Albus Dumbledog, Artemus Growl, Sherlock Bones and Bartholomeow appearing.
Holly Mckinley, Senior Vet at Pet Health Club, said: 'We often see a surge in new puppies and kittens over the summer months. As vets, we’ve heard our fair share of unusual names, from Bulldozer to Mozzarella. It’s lovely to see that pet names are important to owners – they become an extension of personality and part of the bonding process.'
The research highlights that learning a name is a crucial stage in early training and socialisation, helping pets feel part of the family. Pet Health Club expects to welcome many more Franks, Dojas and Chewbaccas in the coming months.
