Choosing a name for your dog is one of the first and most important decisions you’ll make as a pet owner. But not every name will bring out the best in your pup (or avoid raised eyebrows from friends and neighbors). Some names are overly common, impractical, hard to say, or even embarrassing. Here’s a list of 100 of the worst dog names and why they’re not the best choice for your four-legged friend.
1. Mr. Poops - Too self-explanatory and likely to cause giggles at the vet.
2. Sir Barksalot - Guaranteed to be shouted ironically if your dog is loud.
3. Stinky - Unless you want to make an impression with every introduction.
4. Drooly - Might be a little too honest if your dog really does drool a lot.
5. PeeWee - Funny but risky if your dog grows into a giant breed.
6. Chaos - Predicts exactly the kind of behavior you don’t want.
7. Sniffy - It’s a dog, they sniff. No need to announce it.
8. Diablo - Spanish for “devil,” which could set a bad tone.
9. Tiny - Cute for a small dog, but awkward if they’re a Rottweiler.
10. Sir Licks-a-Lot - Accurate, but a little too on the nose.
11. Shredder - Sounds more like a wrestler than a pet.
12. Gassy - You’ll have to explain this one too often.
13. Destroyer - Not the energy you want to invite into your home.
14. Fatso - Could be seen as rude, and it’s not great for the dog’s self-esteem.
15. Dirtbag - No one wants to call out "Dirtbag!" at the park.
16. Psycho - An unfortunate choice for any dog.
17. Thanos - A powerful name, but a lot for a dog to live up to.
18. Trash - Degrading and confusing for commands.
19. Whiner - Too negative, even if it’s accurate.
20. Satan - A name that’s bound to raise eyebrows at doggy daycare.
21. Fluffy - Very generic and overused.
22. Itchy - Why focus on a problem?
23. Cheeto - Cute, but odd if your dog’s not orange.
24. Vomit - Disgusting in every context.
25. Fartknocker - This one just doesn’t work, anywhere.
26. Chubs - Sounds unflattering and could be misinterpreted.
27. Rager - Better suited for a party, not a dog.
28. Puppy - Not ideal once they grow up.
29. Ugly - Really harsh, no matter how it’s meant.
30. Monster - A bad impression for such a loving animal.
31. Grumpy - Especially misleading if your dog is friendly.
32. Yeller - Predictive names like this may backfire.
33. Beast - Feels a bit aggressive and doesn’t fit all breeds.
34. Puke - Like “Vomit,” it’s not pleasant.
35. Scratches - Reinforces bad habits.
36. Fleabag - Reinforces a stereotype no dog deserves.
37. Crazy - Has a negative connotation.
38. Rascal - Can sound disobedient.
39. Blob - Unflattering for even the laziest dogs.
40. Booger - Brings up an image no one wants.
41. Spike - Overused and feels aggressive.
42. Skunk - Odd, even for black and white dogs.
43. Crash - Not ideal for a coordinated dog.
44. Hiccup - Cute in theory, but impractical.
45. Old Man - Awkward for a young pup.
46. Dufus - A bit harsh, even if meant affectionately.
47. Squirrel - Confusing for both dogs and people.
48. Bimbo - Not appropriate for any pet.
49. Clumsy - Negative for dogs with energy.
50. Bully - Sets the wrong expectation.
More Names to Avoid (51–100)
- Noodle
- Slobber
- Gremlin
- Mad Max
- Jaws
- Porkchop
- Sloth
- Chicken
- Scab
- Blubber
- Flop
- Burp
- Maggot
- Snappy
- Muddy
- Weirdo
- Barnacle
- Slob
- Puddles
- Pickle
- Spike
- Buster
- Twinkle
- Snort
- Beastie
- Flimsy
- Stubborn
- Stubs
- Bubba
- Wiggles
- Bulge
- Dork
- Bugger
- Snitch
- Biscuit
- Flake
- Gravy
- Cranky
- Stumpy
- Tofu
- Bonehead
- Grover
- Blobby
- Grody
- Stubby
- Porky
- Butthead
- Brutus
- Squish
- Grump
Final Thoughts
While naming your dog can be a fun and creative process, keep in mind that names are a reflection of their personality and your bond with them. A name should bring out the best in your pet and show respect for the joy they bring into your life. When in doubt, go with something that makes you smile, but keep it appropriate for the many interactions you’ll have with friends, family, and other pet owners. After all, a good name is the first step to creating a great relationship with your pup.