Bringing home a new pup is one of the most exciting moments in life, and one of the first fun tasks is picking the perfect name! If you’re looking for something unique, stylish, and full of meaning, dog names in Japanese might be exactly what you need.
Known for their beautiful sounds and deep meanings, Japanese names can reflect your pup’s personality and give them a one-of-a-kind identity.
Whether you’re into nature vibes, want something cute yet meaningful, or want a name from anime, this list of 120 Japanese dog names (complete with their meanings!) is the ultimate guide. Let’s find the perfect name for your new best friend!
Japanese Names for Girl Dogs
Give your female dog a name that’s cute, beautiful, meaningful, and full of personality. From delicate and sweet to bold and graceful, these names for female dogs are aesthetic and capture everything that makes your girl pup unique.
1. Aiko (愛子) – “Beloved Child”
For a dog that’s truly loved and cherished.
2. Hana (花) – “Flower”
Perfect for a sweet, delicate pup, just like a blooming flower.
3. Yuki (雪) – “Snow”
A cool, elegant name for a white-coated or winter-loving dog.
4. Sakura (桜) – “Cherry Blossom”
This lovely name symbolizes beauty and new beginnings—ideal for your fresh start with a new pup.
5. Momo (桃) – “Peach”
A soft and cute name, perfect for a playful and affectionate dog.
6. Rin (凛) – “Dignified”
For a pup with a graceful and elegant presence, Rin captures that noble vibe.
7. Akira (明) – “Bright”
A great name for a dog that lights up your world with their energetic personality.
8. Kiko (希子) – “Hope”
For the dog that brings joy and positivity to your life, Kiko radiates hope.
9. Suki (好き) – “Loved”
A sweet, simple name that reflects your dog’s affectionate and loving nature. A unique name for your dog daughter!
10. Chiyo (千代) – “Thousand Generations”
A meaningful name for a dog that’s as loyal and timeless as your love for them.
11. Hikari (光) – “Light”
For a pup with a bright, cheerful personality who’s always full of energy.
12. Emi (恵美) – “Blessed with Beauty”
Perfect for a dog who’s both beautiful inside and out.
13. Kaori (香) – “Fragrance”
For the pup who brings joy and sweetness wherever she goes.
14. Ami (亜美) – “Friend”
This name is all about loyalty and companionship—just like your pup.
15. Shika (鹿) – “Deer”
A graceful name, ideal for a gentle and elegant dog.
16. Tama (玉) – “Jewel”
For your precious pup, this name means “gem” or “treasure.”
17. Yumi (弓) – “Bow”
A sleek and elegant name, perfect for a poised and agile dog.
18. Kohana (小花) – “Little Flower”
For a small, delicate dog, this name is a lovely expression of beauty.
19. Nami (波) – “Wave”
Great for a free-spirited dog who flows like the waves of the ocean.
20. Asuka (明日香) – “Fragrance of Tomorrow”
This name carries a sense of freshness and new beginnings, fitting for an adventurous dog.
Japanese Names for Boy Dogs
These strong and charming Japanese names are perfect for male dogs, whether they’re playful and energetic or calm and dependable. Each name carries a deep meaning that reflects your pup’s character.
21. Haruto (陽翔) – “Sunlight, Soar”
A bright, powerful name for a dog with endless energy.
22. Kenji (健二) – “Strong, Second Son”
Perfect for a dependable dog that’s always by your side.
23. Kaito (海斗) – “Ocean, Soar”
For an adventurous pup who loves water or has a free-spirited personality.
24. Taro (太郎) – “Firstborn”
This classic name is ideal for a loyal, noble dog.
25. Ryu (竜) – “Dragon”
A bold name for a strong, fearless pup.
26. Hiroshi (宏) – “Generous”
For a dog that’s always affectionate and full of warmth.
27. Sora (空) – “Sky”
Perfect for a dog who loves to roam and explore the open air.
28. Daiki (大輝) – “Great Glory”
A majestic name for a confident, larger-than-life pup.
29. Kenshin (剣心) – “Sword, Heart”
For a brave and loyal dog, this name blends strength with compassion.
30. Yamato (大和) – “Great Harmony”
Ideal for a calm and balanced dog with a steady, even temperament.
31. Ren (蓮) – “Lotus”
A peaceful name for a dog with a gentle, calming presence.
32. Shin (真) – “Truth”
For a loyal dog who’s always true to you, this name is full of integrity.
33. Masaru (勝) – “Victory”
For a strong, determined pup who never backs down.
34. Kuro (黒) – “Black”
A sleek, simple name for a dog with a black coat or mysterious aura.
35. Takumi (匠) – “Artisan”
Perfect for a dog that does things in his own unique way.
36. Daigo (大悟) – “Great Enlightenment”
A wise name for a thoughtful and intelligent dog.
37. Ichiro (一郎) – “First Son”
A strong, authoritative name for the leader of the pack.
38. Yuki (勇気) – “Courage”
For the brave dog who’s always fearless and bold.
39. Ryota (涼太) – “Cool, Refreshing”
For the calm and laid-back dog who’s always collected.
40. Isamu (勇) – “Bravery”
Another great name for a courageous and heroic pup.
Gender-Neutral Dog Names in Japanese
These gender-neutral names are perfect for either girl or boy dogs, offering beauty, simplicity, and versatility. Whether your dog is male or female, these names are stylish and meaningful.
41. Michi (道) – “Path”
For the dog that guides you on life’s journey or loves exploring new trails.
42. Hoshi (星) – “Star”
A radiant name for the dog that shines brightly in your life.
43. Akira (明) – “Bright, Clear”
A name that symbolizes clarity and brightness, perfect for a cheerful pup.
44. Yasu (安) – “Peaceful”
For the calm and easygoing dog who brings peace wherever they go.
45. Ren (蓮) – “Lotus”
A peaceful, simple name for a gentle, serene dog.
46. Natsu (夏) – “Summer”
For the warm, sunny dog who brings happiness into every day.
47. Kai (海) – “Ocean”
An adventurous, water-loving dog would fit this name, symbolizing the vastness of the sea.
48. Shiro (白) – “White”
Perfect for a white-coated dog, this name evokes purity and elegance.
49. Aoi (葵) – “Hollyhock Flower”
A lovely, delicate name for a dog that brings joy and beauty to your life.
50. Suzu (鈴) – “Bell”
A light and playful name, great for a bubbly, happy pup.
Nature-Inspired Japanese Dog Names
For those who love nature and all its beauty, these unique Japanese names for dogs are inspired by the natural world and its elements.
51. Yama (山) – “Mountain”
A strong name for a calm, sturdy dog.
52. Tsubaki (椿) – “Camellia Flower”
A graceful name for a sweet, delicate pup who’s full of elegance.
53. Haru (春) – “Spring”
A name symbolizing new beginnings, perfect for a dog full of energy and joy.
54. Kawa (川) – “River”
For a dog that’s always on the move, flowing like a river.
55. Tsuki (月) – “Moon”
A serene name for a calm, quiet dog who loves the night.
56. Inu (犬) – “Dog”
A simple, classic name for a loyal companion.
57. Sora (空) – “Sky”
Light and vast, this name fits a dog with a big heart and an adventurous soul.
58. Kaze (風) – “Wind”
For a quick and energetic dog who moves like the breeze.
59. Umi (海) – “Sea”
A beautiful, flowing name for a dog who loves water.
60. Hinata (日向) – “Sunny Place”
For the pup that brings warmth and happiness into your life, just like the sun.
Anime-Inspired Japanese Dog Names
If you’re a fan of anime, why not give your pup a name inspired by your favorite characters? These unique names not only sound cool but also carry a sense of strength, loyalty, or playfulness—perfect for capturing your dog’s unique personality.
61. Chopper (チョッパー) – From One Piece
Inspired by Tony Tony Chopper. While the character is named after his role as a “doctor” who “chops” herbs, the name carries a playful, fun vibe for a small dog with a big heart.
62. Sasuke (サスケ) – From Naruto
Derived from Japanese history, Sasuke can mean “help” or “assistance,” making it a strong and loyal name for a brave dog.
63. Nami (ナミ) – From One Piece
Meaning “wave” in Japanese, this name is ideal for a dog with a fluid, adventurous personality, always on the move.
64. Totoro (トトロ) – From My Neighbor Totoro
Totoro doesn’t have a direct translation, but it’s based on the Japanese word for “troll” (tororu). This name is perfect for a gentle giant, inspired by the comforting forest spirit. It can be a unique name for a dog boy!
65. Naruto (ナルト) – From Naruto
Naruto can refer to a whirlpool or spiral, often seen in a fish cake served with ramen. This playful name suits an energetic, fun-loving dog with a spirited nature.
66. Goku (悟空) – From Dragon Ball
Goku means “awakened to emptiness” or “awakened to understanding,” rooted in Buddhist philosophy. A name for a dog with a wise and adventurous spirit.
67. Levi (リヴァイ) – From Attack on Titan
This name doesn’t have a direct Japanese meaning, as it’s a Western name used in the anime. It’s strong and crisp, perfect for a disciplined, brave pup.
68. Nezuko (禰豆子) – From Demon Slayer
Nezuko combines “ne” (禰) meaning “ancestral shrine” and “zuko” (豆子) meaning “bean child.” A unique name for a sweet yet protective dog with a calm exterior and fierce loyalty.
69. Hinata (ヒナタ) – From Naruto
Meaning “sunny place” or “towards the sun,” this name is perfect for a kind, warm-hearted dog who brings light into your life.
70. Sailor (セーラー) – From Sailor Moon
While Sailor in English refers to someone who navigates the sea, in Sailor Moon, it symbolizes strength, friendship, and protection. Ideal for a pup who’s brave and loyal.
Japanese Food-Inspired Dog Names
For food lovers, these names are inspired by traditional Japanese cuisine and are perfect for dogs with flavorful personalities!
71. Mochi (餅) – “Rice Cake”
A cute and soft name, perfect for a sweet, round, or fluffy dog.
72. Soba (そば) – “Buckwheat Noodles”
A fun, quirky name for a slim, energetic pup who’s always running around.
73. Tempura (天ぷら) – “Fried Batter”
Ideal for a lively and crisp dog with a bubbly personality.
74. Udon (うどん) – “Thick Noodles”
For a chubby or sturdy pup, this name is playful and endearing.
75. Miso (味噌) – “Fermented Soybean Paste”
A savory and rich name, perfect for a dog with a warm and comforting personality.
76. Onigiri (おにぎり) – “Rice Ball”
A fun name for a dog who’s round, cute, and easy to love.
77. Sake (酒) – “Rice Wine”
For a classy and refined dog, this name has a smooth and elegant vibe.
78. Sushi (寿司) – “Vinegared Rice with Fish”
A fresh and popular name, great for a trendy, beloved pup.
79. Wasabi (わさび) – “Japanese Horseradish”
For a dog with a bit of spice and boldness, this name packs a punch.
80. Gyoza (餃子) – “Dumpling”
A cute and playful name for a dog that’s full of personality and fun.
Names for White Dogs
These names are perfect for dogs with a white or light coat, reflecting purity, snow, and serenity.
81. Shiro (白) – “White”
A classic name that simply means “white,” ideal for a white-coated dog.
82. Fuyu (冬) – “Winter”
A lovely name for a pup that loves the cold or has a wintry appearance.
83. Yukiko (雪子) – “Snow Child”
Perfect for a dog that loves winter or has a pure white coat.
84. Kumo (雲) – “Cloud”
Soft and fluffy like a cloud, this name is ideal for a white, puffy dog. For example, it can be an ideal name for a Bichon Frise.
85. Shirayuki (白雪) – “White Snow”
A poetic name for a dog as pure as freshly fallen snow.
86. Gin (銀) – “Silver”
For a dog with a glossy or shining white coat, resembling silver.
87. Haku (白) – “Pure, White”
A simple and elegant name for a dog with a calm and pure presence.
88. Koyuki (小雪) – “Little Snow”
Great for a small, white-coated dog with a gentle and soft nature.
89. Mizuho (瑞穂) – “Fresh Ear of Rice”
A serene, calming name for a peaceful dog.
90. Shiranui (不知火) – “Mysterious Fire”
For a white dog with a mysterious or enigmatic personality.
Names for Black Dogs
These names embody elegance, mystery, and strength, perfect for dogs with a striking black coat.
91. Kuro (黒) – “Black”
A straightforward, classic name for any black-coated dog.
92. Yami (闇) – “Darkness”
For a mysterious dog with a calm and quiet presence.
93. Kage (影) – “Shadow”
Perfect for a dog that loves to follow you closely or has a stealthy nature.
94. Anko (餡子) – “Red Bean Paste”
While traditionally a food item, the dark red color makes this name perfect for a black dog.
95. Amaya (雨夜) – “Night Rain”
A soft, peaceful name for a dog that loves the quiet and calm of nighttime.
96. Raven (レイヴン) – “Raven”
A sleek and powerful name, borrowed from the English word, for a bold black dog.
97. Kurumi (胡桃) – “Walnut”
A fun, earthy name for a playful black dog.
98. Tsukiyo (月夜) – “Moonlit Night”
For a dog that embodies the stillness and beauty of a moonlit night.
99. Kokoro (心) – “Heart”
A name that symbolizes a dog’s loving and loyal nature, regardless of color.
100. Gurei (グレー) – “Gray”
A name perfect for a dog with a dark, smoky coat.
Names for Golden Dogs
For dogs with a golden or yellow coat, these names evoke warmth, brightness, and richness.
101. Kin (金) – “Gold”
A simple, regal name for a dog with a golden coat.
102. Hoshi (星) – “Star”
For a dog that shines brightly, just like a golden star.
103. Taiyo (太陽) – “Sun”
Perfect for a dog with a sunny, warm personality and golden fur.
104. Hinode (日の出) – “Sunrise”
For a dog that brings light and energy into your life.
105. Kohaku (琥珀) – “Amber”
A beautiful name for a golden dog, inspired by the warm hues of amber.
106. Kinka (金貨) – “Gold Coin”
For a precious and valuable dog with a golden glow.
107. Akari (灯り) – “Light”
A name for a dog that brings brightness and joy into your life.
108. Yuzuki (柚月) – “Citrus Moon”
For a dog whose coat glows like a warm, golden moon.
109. Tsubasa (翼) – “Wings”
A graceful name for a dog with an agile, light presence.
110. Kogane (黄金) – “Golden”
A luxurious name for a dog with a rich, golden coat.
Japanese Dog Names for Brown Dogs
These names are perfect for dogs with brown or earthy-toned coats, inspired by nature and warmth.
111. Kona (粉) – “Powder”
A light, playful name for a dog with a soft brown or beige coat.
112. Chairo (茶色) – “Brown”
A straightforward name, simply meaning “brown,” great for any brown-coated dog.
113. Kurumi (胡桃) – “Walnut”
A cute name for a dog with a rich, warm brown coat, like the color of a walnut.
114. Kaki (柿) – “Persimmon”
A bright, fruity name for a dog with a reddish-brown coat.
115. Tsuchi (土) – “Earth”
Perfect for a dog with an earthy brown coat, symbolizing stability and grounding.
116. Mame (豆) – “Bean”
A cute, earthy name for a small brown dog.
117. Kabocha (カボチャ) – “Pumpkin”
A fun and playful name for a dog with a soft, warm brown coat.
118. Renga (レンガ) – “Brick”
For a sturdy, reliable dog with a reddish-brown coat.
119. Roku (六) – “Six”
A simple, clean name for a brown dog, reflecting harmony and balance.
120. Tannin (丹忍) – “Cinnabar”
A deep, warm name for a brown-coated dog with rich hues.
Wrapping Up: Find the Perfect Japanese Name with Meaning for Your Dog
Choosing a name for your dog is an exciting and personal experience, and Japanese dog names offer a perfect mix of beauty, culture, and meaning. Whether you’re inspired by food names like Mochi, elegant names like Shiro, or bold names like Kuro, there’s something here for every type of dog and personality.
Take your time, try saying the names aloud, and see which one feels right for your pup. The perfect name will not only capture their essence but also create a special bond between you and your new best friend.
And if you are still looking for unique names in foreign languages, take a look at this fun list of Korean names for dogs and their meanings and at this collection of cool Spanish dog names.
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