78 Best Dog Names That Mean “Friend”

Dogs have earned their title as “Human’s Best Friend” through their unmatched loyalty, love, and companionship.

Choosing a name that celebrates this special bond is a meaningful way to honor your canine companion.

Many pet owners select names that literally mean “friend” in different languages, choose terms that embody friendship qualities, or name their dogs after beloved canine characters from popular culture.

Finding the perfect name that captures your unique relationship with your dog is important.

DogFix has compiled various friendship-inspired dog names from their extensive database to help with this special decision.

These thoughtfully selected options can help you find a name that truly reflects the special connection you share with your four-legged friend.

Friend Dog Names From Around the World

Naming your dog after the concept of friendship can be meaningful and sweet. Many languages offer names that mean “friend” or relate to friendship.

Here are some international dog names that mean friend:

• Rafiki – Swahili for “friend”
• Bellamy – French for “fair friend”
• Ami – French for “friend”
• Amigo – Spanish for “friend”
• Khalil – Arabic for “friend”

Some names combine friendship with other positive qualities:

• Winifred (or Winnie) – Irish for “friend of peace”
• Medwyn – English for “strong friend”
• Baldwin – German for “brave friend”
• Safiya – Arabic for “sincere friend”
• Sumitra – Sanskrit for “good friend”

English offers several friendship-themed options:

• Aldwyn – “old friend”
• Auden – “old friend”
• Edwina – “old friend”
• Goodwyn – “good friend”
• Corwin – “friend of the heart”
• Amity – “friendship”

Other languages provide unique choices:

Language	Name	Meaning
Hebrew	Ruta	“friend”
Danish	Ven	“friend”
Greek	Filia	“friendship”
Latin	Amica	“female friend”
Vietnamese	Thuy	“friendship”
Japanese	Tomoko	“one who is friendly”
Welsh	Dai	“beloved” or “friend”
Irish	Cara	“friend”

These names not only sound pleasant but also carry the special meaning of friendship, perfect for your loyal companion.

Happy Dog Names

DogFix’s big dog name collection has many names that bring to mind friendship and love. These names can make you smile when you call your pup.

While these names don’t directly mean “friendship,” they all create warm feelings:

• Sunshine
• Angel
• Bear
• Sugar
• Honey
• Daisy
• Lucky

Some names have happy meanings in other languages:

• Arnan – means “joyful” in Hebrew
• Felicity – means “happiness” in Latin
• Allegra – means “cheerful” in Italian
• Farrah – means “happy” in Arabic

Other friendly options include Teddy, Summer, Winston, Precious, Fluffy, Sunny, Sparkles and Grace.

Friend-Inspired Dog Names From Books and Movies

Looking for a special name for your dog? Books and movies offer many beloved canine characters that make perfect name choices. These names carry meaning and character that can match your pet’s personality.

Here are some popular dog names from films and literature:

• Beethoven – the lovable St. Bernard
• Lassie – the famous collie
• Nana – the dog nanny from Peter Pan
• Hooch – the drooling partner from Turner & Hooch
• Benji – the small, clever mutt
• Toto – Dorothy’s loyal companion from The Wizard of Oz
• Clifford – the Big Red Dog from children’s books
• Marley – the mischievous labrador
• Buck – the sled dog from The Call of the Wild
• Shiloh – the beagle who needed rescue

10 Most Popular Dog Names Inspired by Friendship

Dog owners often choose names that reflect the loyal bond they share with their pets. Based on data from DogFix.com, these friendship-themed names rank highest in popularity:

• Buddy – A classic choice that directly means friend
• Shadow – Named for dogs who follow their owners everywhere
• Dakota – From a tribal word meaning “friend”
• Honey – A sweet term of endearment
• Minnie – German origin meaning “love”
• Mila – Russian for “Dear One”
• Faith – Representing loyalty and trust
• Obi – Nigerian word for “heart”
• Lovey – A cute, affectionate nickname
• Pal – Simple and direct term for a friend

Dog Naming Tips

When choosing a name for your new dog, take some time to get to know them first. A good name should match your dog’s unique personality and characteristics.

Since you’ll be using this name for many years, make sure it truly fits who they are.

Avoid names that sound like basic commands. For example, naming your dog “Kit” might be confusing when you’re trying to teach them to “sit.” This kind of mix-up can make training more difficult for both of you.

Important considerations when naming your dog:

• Choose a name you enjoy saying repeatedly
• Select something that fits their personality
• Avoid names that sound like commands (sit, stay, come)
• Don’t rush the decision—spend time with your dog first

Remember that you don’t need to find a name with a deep or special meaning. What matters most is picking a name you like and one that suits your dog well.

If you’re stuck for ideas, look beyond typical dog names. Consider names inspired by:

• Favorite flowers
• Special holidays
• Places you love
• Foods you enjoy
• Characters from books or movies

More Dog Names

If you’re looking for the perfect name for your dog, there are many options to consider:

• Unique Names: Stand out with names like Atlas, Echo, or Phoenix
• Cute Names: Cuddles, Pumpkin, or Muffin for adorable pups
• Bookish Names: Honor literature with Scout, Atticus, or Gatsby
• Harry Potter Names: Magical options include Luna, Sirius, or Dobby
• Brown Dog Names: Names like Cocoa, Mocha, or Rusty match brown fur

These name ideas come from sources like DogFix.com, Pet Central, Dog Tag Art, and She Knows.