IT MUST BE MAGIC, MIKE TRENDIEST DOG NAME OF 2022

Rover.com, the world’s largest online marketplace for loving pet care has revealed the UK’s trendiest dog names of 2022. Mike was officially crowned the UK’s top dog – closely followed by the likes of Preston, Smokey and Mabli. The report, celebrating its tenth anniversary, reflects themes from 2022 including sports, pop culture, royalty and politics showing where Brits take inspiration when naming their dogs. 

Top 10 Trending Dog Names for British Pups in 2022

1. Mike

2. Preston

3. Smokey

4. Mabli

5. Katy

6. Portia

7. Tsuki

8. Bree

9. Betsi

10. Ferris

Human names are clearly favoured (46%) as alongside Mike, the name Gary started trending upwards (+531%) despite it facing extinction among humans. However, it seems Britons are put off by traditional pet names such as Lassie, Champ and Fluffy as they are all trending downwards this year. It’s out with the old and in with the new as 29% of pet parents say they’ve opted for humorous and fun names for their pooches. Some of this year’s best examples on Rover include Tuppence, Albus Dumbledog, Brad Pett and Baron Von Tail Wagger. 

Nevertheless, naming a dog is no mean feat as 18% admit to considering changing their dog’s name at a later date as they regretted their decision (8%). Though 13% say it’s because they let their kids choose the name, and 26% say it reminded them of a person, which in turn put them off.

IT’S COMING HOME-WARD BOUND

Making history as European Champions, the Lionesses proved to be an inspiration in more ways than one. Leading goal scorers (Fran) Kirby and Beth (Mead) topped the trending list of names from the team, both trending upwards by 306% and 81% respectively. In fact, the names Alessia, Rachel and even Lioness entered the ranks this year for the first time, which could only be down to England’s success.

With the men’s World Cup taking place this month, the report foresees Jack (Grealish) to be fan favourite for a second year in a row as his name tops the ranks. However, it seems the nation is fully behind captain Harry Kane as both his first and second name feature, alongside Jordan (and) Pickford, Declan (Rice) and (Raheem) Sterling.

PUP CULTURE  

Ekin-who? After the eighth season of Love Island graced our screens, it appears to continue to be a source of inspiration for our pet pals. “Wifey” material Paige increased by a whopping 931%, followed by her ex-partner Jacques (+231%). Although Tasha, Summer and Luca also proved to be popular, perhaps it was the lack of affection shown that caused the name Gemma to trend downwards this year. 

Aiming for Howl-lywood? With blockbuster hits such as Top Gun premiering in 2022, the names Bradley (+180%) and Maverick (+17%) appeared popular. What’s more, Tom Cruise had his first and last name featured in the list this year.  

DECLINING VALUE OF THE HOUND?

The value of the pound and the cost of living crisis might have tightened purse strings across the country, but that doesn’t mean people can’t indulge their expensive tastes in their dog names. Designer brands including Armani (+531%), Prada (+191%) and Dior (+131%) all trended up this year. 

With UK politics also in turmoil, it’s hardly surprising that pet parents have shied away from naming their dogs Boris (Johnson) and Liz (Truss) – both declining by 21% and 69% respectively over the past year. Perhaps as a sign of hope, the name Rishi was added to the platform this year.

KING CHARLES (SPANIELS)

After a year of royal highs and lows, names such as Queenie (231%) and Lizzie (72%) are trending upwards, perhaps as a sign of respect to Her Majesty. Despite winning the hearts of the nation at the Jubilee celebrations, the name Louis has been disregarded, trending downwards by 61%. It’s bad news for the new King as Charles has also declined by 156% compared to 2021, however, Camilla entered the ranks this year, suggesting the nation’s support of the Queen Consort.  

‘TWO’ MANY CHOICES

Rover’s research suggests that with too many names to choose from, some pet parents (13%) are giving their pooches two names – a first, and a middle. The middle names tend to be quirkier than the first (35%), or much like human traditions, are using their dog’s middle name as a sign of respect to one of their dog ancestors (9%). Speaking of respect, 11% include “Mr” as part of their pet’s official name.

For those pet parents that have more than one dog, it seems they come as a pair. Whether it’s Ant and Dec, Holly and Phil, or Bonnie and Clyde, 27% of Britons say they’ve planned their dogs’ names with a duo in mind.

Adem Fehmi, Rover’s canine behaviourist, comments: “We like to think of dogs as core members of our families and our bestest friends, so like naming humans, it’s no surprise that it’s a difficult task, and one we want to get just right. As dogs have become more central to our lives in recent years, it’s easy to see why a few human names have been favoured over others by pet parents for their pups. It’s also great to see some more quirkier names making the cut this year!

The tenth anniversary of the Rover Pet Name Report goes to show the extent to which people rely on trends and cultural moments to name their dog, however it’s up to the dog to live up to the name!”

For more advice on naming your dog, follow Adem’s tips:

Short names, rule!: Giving your dog a short name can aid them in learning and hearing their name clearly when called, as well as responding to it when needed. One or two syllables work well and don’t take too long to say. A simple name can also be beneficial for your dog’s learning when undertaking training e.g. ‘Rover, Down’.

Thou shall not name me after a command: Names that sound like commands can confuse your dog and can ultimately slow down training. E.g. it’s best to stay away from names like Jay as it sounds like ‘stay’ or Neil which sounds like ‘heel’. The same goes for Nova as it sounds like ‘no’, which could have negative associations for your dog.

A title, a first name and a middle name – oh my!: If you want to pick a more quirky or fun name over a traditional pet name – perhaps even giving them a multi layered name such as middle name as well as a first name, ensure it can be easily shortened when necessary. This will be especially important when your dog is first learning both their name and command words. You can then start using the shortened version, and over time add in the other names to help your dog learn to respond to these also.

Vowel please, Rachel!: Consider a name that has a vowel or vowel sounding consonant at the end e.g. Bella or Penny. These types of names roll easily off the tongue. When saying a name like this you are also more likely to elongate the vowel sounds and change your pitch of voice for the second syllable – which is important when calling their name to get their attention or for recall purposes. This can help your dog hear their name being called and often these sounds sound more positive and inviting to your dog, helping them to want to respond accordingly.

It’s not just about looks – personality is just as important: Pick a name that suits your dog’s looks or personality, and something that you love. If you can’t decide straight away, then perhaps simply observe and spend time with them for a while before choosing. It might also be worth taking a look at Rover’s Pet Name Report for some inspiration on what other pet parents are doing too!