If you're a book lover and a dog owner, what better way to celebrate your new furry companion than by giving them a name inspired by your favorite literary works? Literary dog names are not only creative and meaningful but also a great way to showcase your love of reading. From classic novels to modern-day adventures, there's an abundance of literary characters, authors, and themes to choose from when naming your dog. Below is a collection of literary dog names that span various genres, from classic literature to beloved children's books.
Popular Literary Dog Names
Many beloved dog names come straight from literature, and these names are often timeless and beloved by bookworms everywhere. Some of the most popular literary dog names in the United States include:
Bella (From Twilight)
A name popularized by the young-adult series Twilight, Bella is perfect for a gentle and graceful dog.
Charlie (From Charlie and the Chocolate Factory)
A charming name for a sweet and well-loved dog, inspired by the classic children's novel.
Finn (From Adventures of Huckleberry Finn)
For the adventurous dog with a free spirit, Finn is an ideal choice.
Luna (From Harry Potter)
Luna is a mystical and magical name, great for a dog with a quirky, curious nature.
Marley (From Marley and Me)
If your dog brings joy and mischief into your life, Marley is a fitting name, made famous by the tearjerker novel.
Oliver (From Oliver Twist)
A classic name for a kind-hearted dog who might have a bit of a scrappy or mischievous side.
Romeo (From Romeo and Juliet)
For the romantic dog who loves attention and affection, Romeo is a poetic and classic name.
Scout (From To Kill a Mockingbird)
A name for the curious, brave, and independent dog, inspired by the strong-willed protagonist in this literary classic.
Winnie (From Winnie the Pooh)
Perfect for a sweet and cuddly dog who loves to be surrounded by friends and fun adventures.
Literary Names for Female Dogs
There are many strong, adventurous, and inspiring female characters in literature. Naming your dog after one of these iconic literary figures is a great way to honor their courage and wit. Here are some great options for female dogs:
Arya (From Game of Thrones)
A fierce and determined name for a dog with a strong and independent personality.
Charlotte (From Charlotte's Web)
For a sweet, nurturing dog, Charlotte is the perfect name, inspired by the wise and caring spider from the beloved children’s novel.
Jane (From Jane Eyre)
A classic name for a brave and self-assured dog with a strong sense of loyalty and love.
Jo (From Little Women)
For the lively, spirited dog who loves adventure and is always on the go, Jo is a name that embodies independence.
Katniss (From The Hunger Games)
A powerful name for a brave and courageous dog, Katniss reflects strength and resilience.
Lizzie (From Pride and Prejudice)
For a smart, witty dog who loves to charm those around her, Lizzie is a clever and timeless name.
Lucy (From The Chronicles of Narnia)
A name full of magic and wonder, perfect for a curious and adventurous dog who loves exploring.
Matilda (From Matilda)
A whimsical name for a clever and quirky dog, Matilda reflects intelligence and a love for adventure.
Nancy (From Nancy Drew)
For a dog who’s always solving mysteries or loves to lead the charge, Nancy is an adventurous name.
Ramona (From Ramona Quimby)
A fun and energetic name for a spunky dog, Ramona reflects a lively spirit and a sense of curiosity.
Literary Names for Male Dogs
If your boy dog would rather curl up with a book than chase after a ball, then one of these literary-inspired names might be the perfect fit:
Atticus (From To Kill a Mockingbird)
A name of wisdom, justice, and strength, Atticus is perfect for a dog who is calm, brave, and morally steadfast.
Binx (From The Moviegoer)
A quirky and cool name for a dog with a laid-back, introspective personality.
Frankie (From The Man With the Golden Arm)
For the dog with a larger-than-life personality, Frankie is an energetic name that reflects resilience.
Gatsby (From The Great Gatsby)
Ideal for a dog who loves to be the center of attention, Gatsby represents glamour, charisma, and mystery.
Holden (From Catcher in the Rye)
For a dog that’s a bit of a rebel, Holden is a great name that evokes individuality and curiosity.
Huckleberry (From Adventures of Huckleberry Finn)
A name for an adventurous, free-spirited dog, perfect for one who loves the great outdoors.
Milo (From Catch-22)
A name for the dog with a sharp mind and a sense of humor, Milo is quirky and thoughtful.
Moby (From Moby-Dick)
For a big-hearted dog, Moby is a strong, symbolic name that reflects adventure and loyalty.
Robinson (From Robinson Crusoe)
A name for a dog who is independent, resourceful, and loves solitary adventures.
Watson (From Sherlock Holmes)
A clever and insightful name for a dog with an inquisitive nature or detective-like tendencies.
Dog Names Inspired by Classic Authors
If you’re an admirer of the literary greats, you may want to name your dog after one of these famous writers. These names pay tribute to their works and literary legacies:
Austen (Author Jane Austen)
A name full of elegance and wit, perfect for a dog with a charming and refined personality.
Bram (Author Bram Stoker)
A dark and mysterious name for a dog who’s bold and captivating.
Dodie (Author Dodie Smith)
A lovely and whimsical name, perfect for a dog who’s sweet and creative.
Fitzgerald (Author F. Scott Fitzgerald)
For a dog with a sophisticated and classy demeanor, Fitzgerald is a name with a touch of vintage charm.
Harper (Author Harper Lee)
A name that symbolizes bravery and justice, perfect for a dog who is protective and loyal.
Hemingway (Author Ernest Hemingway)
For a strong and adventurous dog, Hemingway reflects strength, simplicity, and exploration.
Huxley (Author Aldous Huxley)
A great name for an intellectual and philosophical dog, Huxley is perfect for one who has a deep sense of curiosity.
Jack (Author Jack London)
A rugged and adventurous name for a dog who loves the great outdoors, Jack embodies a spirit of exploration.
Shelley (Author Mary Shelley)
For a creative, daring dog, Shelley honors literary history and a love for the bold and unusual.
Virginia (Author Virginia Woolf)
A name that carries grace and depth, ideal for a thoughtful and elegant dog.
Conclusion
Whether your dog is a strong adventurer like Katniss or a thoughtful philosopher like Watson, literary names are a great way to celebrate their unique personality while honoring beloved literary works. From classic novels to contemporary tales, literature offers a wealth of inspiration for naming your dog. Choose a name that reflects your dog’s character and one that will stand the test of time—after all, the stories behind these names are as enduring as the bonds you share with your furry friend.