Pop superstar Shakira is the UK's fastest-growing celebrity dog name, according to Rover's 2026 UK Pet Names Report. The Colombian singer saw an 888% spike in rankings following a busy tour and a surprise duet with Dua Lipa.
Olympic swimmer Adam Peaty tied that 888% surge as fans named their pets 'Adam' after his recent wedding to Holly Ramsay and their pregnancy announcement. Hollywood A-lister Zendaya made her debut on the annual pet name list for the first time.
Celebrity Names on the Rise
The data comes from Rover's report, which examined millions of user-submitted pet names. Supporting research revealed nearly one in four (24%) dog owners have named a pooch after a celebrity.
Jonathan, belonging to Jonathan Ross and Jonathan Bailey, jumped 188%, alongside Tupac. Noel climbed 45% while Liam plummeted 97%, giving fresh significance to 'Don't Look Bark in Anger'. Damon, belonging to Blur frontman Damon Albarn, increased 38%, while Geri and Kylie gained 21% and 18%.
Jamie Oliver's namesake rose 23%, while Hannah, belonging to Hannah Waddingham, advanced 21%.
Non-Celebrity Trends
Beyond celebrities, Sunnie is the fastest-climbing name overall, skyrocketing 1,287%. Grandparent-favoured names are making a resurgence, with Winny soaring by 537%, Melvin increasing by 121%, Harold up by 99%, and Hilda rising by 79%.
Ancient mythology continues to inspire, with Achilles climbing 362%, Persephone up 254%, and Ulysses rising 238%. However, Luna retained its position as the most popular dog name for the sixth consecutive year.
AI and Naming Advice
Rover's survey of 1,000 dog owners also revealed that 38% have turned to AI for naming assistance, while 41% have used it to help select a breed.
Adem Fehmi, Rover's Canine Behaviourist, said: "From Sunnie to Achilles, this year's trends show just how much our dogs' names reflect the world around us – whether that's the weather, the big screen or a dose of nostalgia. But beyond choosing a name we love, it's important to remember that, for our dogs, their name is an important communication cue."
Fehmi added: "Dogs learn to associate their name with getting our attention and engaging with us, so a name that's clear, distinctive and easy to say can make everyday communication that little bit easier. Consistency matters too – using the same name, and building positive associations with it through attention, praise and rewards, can help your dog learn to respond reliably."
He concluded: "Ultimately, trends will come and go, but choosing a name that suits your dog's personality, stands out clearly from other everyday words and feels natural to call out will help set you both up for years of positive communication."
