The 68 Best Dog Names that Mean Love

Dogs hold a special place in our hearts, and naming them can be a meaningful way to express that bond. When choosing a name that represents love, you have many options beyond the obvious.

While English offers the simple word “love,” many languages around the world provide beautiful alternatives that capture different aspects of affection and devotion.

If you’re looking for a name that truly embodies the connection you feel with your new pet, consider exploring words for love from various cultures.

These names can reflect the special relationship between you and your dog while also having a deeper significance.

The following collection offers meaningful options that celebrate the unique love we share with our canine companions.

Love Dog Names From Around The World

Want to name your dog after the feeling of love? Many languages offer beautiful options that mean “love” or “beloved.” These names can show how much you care for your new pet.

Arabic speakers might choose Aziz, which means “beloved.” From Japan comes Aiko, meaning “love child” or “child who will be loved.”

French options include Amorette (“little love”) and Amicia (“dearly loved”).

Here are more love-inspired names from different cultures:

Language	Name	Meaning
Hebrew	Ahava	“love”
Sanskrit	Kama or Prem	“love”
Hindi	Sajan	“beloved”
Gaelic	Kiefer	“beloved”
Zulu	Luthando	“love”
Greek	Erasmus or Philomena	“beloved” or “love”

Other sweet options include Cara (Italian for “dear”), Mila (Russian for “dear one”), and Amor (Spanish for “love”).

For female dogs, Habibah (Egyptian for “love”) or Priya (Sanskrit for “beloved”) make lovely choices.

These names not only sound nice but also carry deep meaning that shows your connection with your dog.

Friendship Dog Names

Naming your dog after the concept of friendship creates a special bond from day one. Several names across different languages capture this beautiful relationship perfectly.

Consider these friendship-inspired dog names from around the world:

Name	Origin	Meaning
Amity	English	“Friendship”
Ashura	Swahili	“Friend”
Aldwyn	English	“Old friend”
Amica	Latin	“Female friend”
Dakota	Dakota tribe	“Friend”
Rafiki	Swahili	“Friend”

For a name with deeper meaning, try options like Corwin (English for “friend of the heart”) or Arvin (German for “friend of the people”).

Other wonderful choices include Goodwyn (“good friend”), Medwyn (“strong friend”), and Sumitra (Sanskrit for “good friend”).

Some names blend friendship with affection, like Dai (Welsh for “beloved” or “friend”), Vida (Scottish for “beloved” or “friend”), and Jebediah (Hebrew for “beloved friend”).

Khalil (Arabic) and Yadira (Hebrew) are also beautiful international options that mean “friend” and can work wonderfully for your canine companion.

Valentine’s Day-Inspired Dog Names

Looking for a dog name that celebrates love? Heart-inspired names are perfect for Valentine’s Day and beyond. These names from different languages all connect to the heart:

International Heart-Inspired Names:

• Janan (Arabic): means “heart”
• Dilshad (Persian): means “happy heart”
• Libi (Hebrew): means “my heart”
• Kokoro (Japanese): means “heart, mind, soul”
• Corazon (Spanish): means “heart”

More Heart-Connected Names:

• Gulisa (Georgian): “little heart”
• Euston (Irish): “heart”
• Nuttah (Algonquian): “my heart”
• Obi (Nigerian): “heart”
• Hubert (German): “bright heart”

Classic Valentine’s Day names like Valentine, Valentina, and Cupid also make sweet choices for your furry friend.

More Dog Names Inspired by Affection

Looking for a name that shows how much you love your dog? Consider these sweet options:

• Angel – Perfect for a heavenly pup
• Apple – A term of endearment
• Baby – Classic and simple
• Cuddles – For snuggly dogs
• Darling – Timeless and sweet
• Freya/Freyja – Norse goddess of love
• Honey – Sweet as can be

Other loving names include Lovebug, Precious, Rose, Snuggles, Sweetie, Sweet Pea, and Venus.

Dog Naming Tips

Picking a name for your new furry friend is both fun and important. The right name can make daily interactions easier and more enjoyable for both of you.

Take some time to observe your dog before naming them.

Spend at least a day or two getting to know their unique personality traits. A shy dog might suit a gentle name, while an energetic pup might need something more lively.

Consider how the name will work during training sessions. Avoid names that sound like common commands.

Name to Avoid	Similar Command	Better Alternative
Kit	Sit	Max
Bo	No	Buddy
Faye	Stay	Luna

Select a name you enjoy saying repeatedly.

You’ll call your dog’s name countless times each day – during playtime, meals, walks, and training. Choose something that feels natural and pleasant when spoken.

Your inspiration can come from anywhere! Consider these popular sources:

• Physical traits: Color, size, or distinctive markings
• Personality: Energy level, quirks, or behaviors
• Seasons or holidays: Winter, Summer, Noel
• Favorite things: Foods, hobbies, places

Many pet parents find that shorter names (one or two syllables) work best for training. However, you can always create a longer formal name with a shorter nickname for daily use.

Remember that your dog will learn to respond to whatever name you use consistently.

The most important factor isn’t the name itself but the positive association your dog develops with it through your loving tone and interactions.

More dog names

Looking for creative ways to name your furry friend? Here are some unique categories to consider:

• Most Unique Names: Stand out with truly one-of-a-kind choices
• Hawaiian Names: Bring island vibes with tropical-inspired options
• Romantic Names: Perfect for your loving companion
• Country Names: Rustic charm for your four-legged friend
• Funny Names: Add some humor to your dog’s identity

Name meanings sourced from popular naming databases