Rover.com, the world’s largest online pet care marketplace, has unveiled the most popular dog names for 2024. As Regency-era glamour continues to capture the public’s imagination, pet names inspired by Bridgerton are taking the lead. Other TV and film influences, such as the return of Gavin and Stacey and a surge in “IT girls” names, are also shaping the landscape of dog naming trends.
Bridgerton: A New Era for Pet Names
Regal names inspired by the characters and settings of Bridgerton have skyrocketed in popularity over the past year. Lord (+790%), Dukie (+290%), and Duchess (+13%) are seeing remarkable increases, while fan-favourite characters like Benedict (+591%), Lady Penelope (+190%), and Colin (+22%) continue to inspire dog owners across the country. The surge in Regency-inspired names highlights the influence of TV series and film on pet naming trends. This popularity comes as no surprise, as Bridgerton’s lavish costumes, extravagant ballrooms, and impeccable characters have captivated viewers worldwide, leaving a lasting mark on the naming landscape.
Rover’s research reveals that 88% of pet owners draw inspiration from pop culture, with TV shows, films, and music playing a significant role in their choices. Notably, 39% of owners feel a personal connection to the names they choose, wanting them to reflect their own interests, while 47% are driven by the desire for something unique that stands out from the crowd.
Roverton House: A Regal Tribute to Canine Nobility
To celebrate this surge in Regency-style dog names, Rover has unveiled a grand Regency-inspired doghouse, the “Roverton House.” Set to debut in Victoria Park from 30th November to 1st December, this luxurious creation is designed for London’s most distinguished pooches. Complete with a grand fireplace, an elegant chandelier, and period-style design elements reminiscent of Bridgerton’s ballrooms, the Roverton House promises an experience fit for canine royalty.
Roverton House offers the perfect backdrop for pet parents to capture period-style portraits of their pups, providing an opportunity for pooches and their owners to embrace the opulence of Regency-era London. The stunning installation allows pet owners to enjoy a moment of high-society flair, celebrating the growing trend of dog names inspired by the hit Netflix series.
Pet Names Inspired by Hollywood and TV
The influence of popular TV shows and Hollywood films has not been limited to Bridgerton. The recent return of Gavin and Stacey’s Christmas Special saw a noticeable increase in the popularity of names such as Smithy (+33%), Pam (+19%), and even Dave (+17%), with Gwen (+81%) leading the pack. In addition, names inspired by Sydney Sweeney’s role in Anyone But You, such as Bea (+81%), and Baby Reindeer’s character Martha (+70%) have also seen impressive growth.
Names from other recent films and shows, such as Venom (+891%) and Paddington (+63%), have also gained significant traction, reflecting a wider trend of pet owners looking to pop culture for naming inspiration. Whether it’s the return of nostalgic TV specials or new blockbuster films, pop culture continues to shape the names we give our pets.
The IT Girl Trend
The rise of the “IT girl” phenomenon has brought a surge of star-studded names for dogs. Beyoncé, Charli, Taylor, Olivia (Rodrigo), and Kylie (Minogue) have all seen impressive increases in popularity. With the growing influence of pop culture, these “girl boss” names have become a new trend in the world of pet naming, as pet parents continue to draw inspiration from their favourite icons.
What’s Next in Dog Naming Trends?
Looking ahead, Rover predicts a rise in Britpop-inspired names in 2025, with Oasis frontmen Liam and Noel Gallagher set to inspire a wave of new dog names. The quirky, playful names of internet sensations like Moo-Deng are also expected to gain popularity, adding a fun, unique twist to the dog naming scene.
Expert Tips for Naming Your Dog
Rover’s canine behaviourist, Adem Fehmi, offers some key advice for pet owners when choosing the perfect name for their dog. “Choosing a name for your dog is not just fun, it’s a decision that reflects their personality and your creativity,” says Fehmi. “Keep it short, easy to say, and avoid confusion with training commands. It’s a name you’ll use every day, so make sure it’s something you love.”
Rover.com continues to be the go-to platform for pet care and advice, providing a wealth of resources for pet owners looking to make the best choices for their dogs.
Top 10 Trending Dog Names for 2024:
- Bluebell (85%)
- Bea (81%)
- Gwen (81%)
- Mason (80%)
- Dakota (76%)
- Martha (70%)
- Gunnar (69%)
- Carlos (67%)
- Paddington (63%)
- Winter (63%)