Choosing a foreign name for your dog can give them a global flair and capture a bit of another culture’s charm. From French sophistication to Japanese serenity, foreign names offer unique sounds and special meanings that highlight your pup's personality. Here are ten categories of foreign-inspired dog names, each with names for male and female dogs that come with meaningful translations.
1. French-Inspired Dog Names
Known for their elegance and romance, French names are perfect for dogs with refined, lovable personalities.
Male
- Gaston: "Guest"
- Pierre: "Stone"
- Marcel: "Little warrior"
- Remy: "Oarsman"
- Claude: "Lame" (symbolizing humility)
Female
- Belle: "Beautiful"
- Chérie: "Dear" or "beloved"
- Fleur: "Flower"
- Colette: "Victorious"
- Étoile: "Star"
2. Japanese-Inspired Dog Names
Japanese names often reflect nature, strength, and spirituality, ideal for calm or majestic dogs.
Male
- Hiro: "Generous"
- Kuma: "Bear"
- Riku: "Land"
- Taro: "Eldest son"
- Jiro: "Second son"
Female
- Yuki: "Snow"
- Sakura: "Cherry blossom"
- Aiko: "Child of love"
- Hana: "Flower"
- Emi: "Blessed beauty"
3. Italian-Inspired Dog Names
Italian names are musical and expressive, bringing a sense of passion and joy—perfect for a lively companion.
Male
- Luca: "Bringer of light"
- Enzo: "Ruler of the estate"
- Paolo: "Small"
- Romeo: "Pilgrim to Rome"
- Giovanni: "God is gracious"
Female
- Luna: "Moon"
- Bianca: "White"
- Francesca: "Free one"
- Rosa: "Rose"
- Vita: "Life"
4. Spanish-Inspired Dog Names
Spanish names are vibrant and full of personality, suitable for spirited dogs with bold characters.
Male
- Diego: "Supplanter"
- Pablo: "Humble"
- Rico: "Brave ruler"
- Toro: "Bull"
- Santiago: "Saint James"
Female
- Carmen: "Song"
- Esperanza: "Hope"
- Isla: "Island"
- Lola: "Sorrows"
- Paloma: "Dove"
5. German-Inspired Dog Names
German names often have strong meanings and are fitting for dogs with protective instincts or loyal hearts.
Male
- Klaus: "Victory of the people"
- Axel: "Father of peace"
- Bruno: "Brown"
- Hans: "God is gracious"
- Fritz: "Peaceful ruler"
Female
- Greta: "Pearl"
- Elke: "Noble"
- Hilda: "Battle woman"
- Liese: "God is my oath"
- Uta: "Prosperity"
6. Russian-Inspired Dog Names
Russian names can be fierce and full of grandeur, ideal for big-hearted or resilient dogs.
Male
- Ivan: "God is gracious"
- Yuri: "Farmer"
- Misha: "Who is like God"
- Nikolai: "Victory of the people"
- Lev: "Lion"
Female
- Anya: "Gracious"
- Nina: "Dreamer"
- Kira: "Leader"
- Sasha: "Defender"
- Zoya: "Life"
7. Irish-Inspired Dog Names
Irish names are known for their musicality and are perfect for dogs with a joyful, free-spirited nature.
Male
- Finnegan: "Fair"
- Connor: "Lover of hounds"
- Bran: "Raven"
- Aidan: "Little fire"
- Rory: "Red king"
Female
- Saoirse: "Freedom"
- Maeve: "She who intoxicates"
- Bridget: "Strength"
- Niamh: "Bright"
- Orla: "Golden princess"
8. Indian-Inspired Dog Names
Indian names often have deep spiritual meanings, suitable for gentle or wise dogs with soulful gazes.
Male
- Raj: "King"
- Ravi: "Sun"
- Arjun: "White, clear"
- Sanjay: "Triumphant"
- Deva: "Divine"
Female
- Priya: "Beloved"
- Anaya: "Caring"
- Lakshmi: "Goddess of wealth"
- Kiran: "Ray of light"
- Leela: "Play, divine drama"
9. Nordic-Inspired Dog Names
Nordic names bring a touch of ancient mythology and are perfect for strong, adventurous dogs.
Male
- Bjorn: "Bear"
- Sven: "Young warrior"
- Thor: "Thunder"
- Odin: "Frenzy, inspiration"
- Leif: "Heir, descendant"
Female
- Freya: "Lady"
- Astrid: "Divinely beautiful"
- Saga: "Seeing one"
- Ingrid: "Fair, beautiful"
- Kari: "Pure"
10. Arabic-Inspired Dog Names
Arabic names are often poetic and elegant, great for dogs with a dignified or regal personality.
Male
- Amir: "Prince"
- Bashir: "Bringer of good news"
- Hassan: "Good"
- Malik: "King"
- Rafi: "Noble"
Female
- Layla: "Night"
- Zara: "Princess"
- Nadia: "Hope"
- Aisha: "Living"
- Fatima: "Captivating"
Whether you're inspired by the elegance of French names, the boldness of German names, or the mystery of Japanese names, these foreign-inspired names offer a perfect way to honor a culture or give your dog a unique, meaningful identity. Let these names inspire you to find the ideal match for your furry friend’s personality and heritage!