Top dog and cat names revealed as UK celebrates National Pet Week
New data from VetPartners offers a light-hearted insight into the names we choose for our pet – and what they say about us.
Looking after more than 110,000 dogs and 90,000 cats across its practices, VetPartners has taken a closer look at the names its staff hear most often in its consulting rooms.
When it comes to dogs, Molly remains the nation’s favourite for female pets, with Poppy and Bella close behind.
For male dogs, Max tops the list, followed by Charlie and Alfie
Cats tell a slightly different story, however, as Charlie takes the top spot for male cats, with Oscar and Tigger also proving popular.
Among female cats, Molly, Poppy and Daisy are among the most common names.
VetPartnes says a few clear patterns emerge from the data.
One is that people-inspired names dominate – Max, Charlie, Alfie and Oscar are just as common in playgrounds as they are in practice.
Another is that short and simple works best – one or two-syllable names are easier for pets to recognise.
Names can also cross species with many favourites appearing in both dog and cat lists
Honor Etherington, a vet at VetPartners said: “With so many Mollys and Charlies on our systems, veterinary teams often find themselves double-checking details or adding descriptors – think ‘Molly S the spaniel’- to make sure every pet gets the right care.
“While popular names continue to stand the test of time, the full top 10 lists still showcase plenty of variety, from Rosie and Ruby to Buster and Barney, alongside feline favourites like Luna, Misty and Sooty.
“Our pets may share names, but their personalities, quirks and the joy they bring are always one of a kind and all of our patients are special when they come into our practices.”