Pug wearing a yoda costume

Lifestyle

Magical Disney dog names for your new best friend

Bringing a new pup home is a core memory in the making. As you get to know your dog’s personality, you might find they have the heart of a lion, a mischievous streak or the grace of a princess — prompting you to look to Disney movies for inspiration. From the old animated classics to newer Pixar hits, Disney movies provide tons of fodder for the perfect dog name.

Classic Disney dog names

Sometimes the best inspiration comes from the dogs who paved the way on the silver screen. Choosing a name from this list is a sweet nod to moves and the bond between humans and their canine companions.

  • Pongo: The hero from 101 Dalmatians
  • Perdita: A sophisticated and brave choice for a steady, loving female dog
  • Nana: Perfect for a gentle giant or a dog that takes its role as a family protector seriously
  • Copper: A classic for hounds or any pup with a reddish-brown coat
  • Lady: Ideal for a refined Spaniel or a dog with a particularly graceful gait
  • Tramp: For the scruffy, charming rescue who won your heart
  • Pluto: The most iconic pal in the world, great for a cheerful and loyal companion
  • Dodger: For the street-smart pup
  • Bruno: The loyal bloodhound from Cinderella who is always dreaming of chasing Lucifer the cat
  • Bolt: A high-energy name for a dog who thinks they have superpowers
  • Peg: For the sassy, fluffy pup with a big voice and a bigger personality
  • Slinky: A fun choice for Dachshunds or any pup with a bit of a stretch

Heroic & adventurous names

If your pup is always the first one out the door and ready for a hike, they might need a name that matches their bold spirit. Disney’s lineup of heroes and adventurers offers plenty of options for dogs that are small in stature but big on courage.

  • Hercules: For the dog that seems to have no fear
  • Naveen: If you’re pup’s a bit of a dreamer
  • Flynn: For the dog with a touch of roguish charm 
  • Merida: An excellent name for a pup that loves to explore
  • Simba: A fitting name for a natural-born leader
  • Tarzan: For the pup who loves the outdoors
  • Buzz: If your dog is a truly cosmic adventurer

Whimsical sidekicks & comic relief

We all know that dog — the one who tilts their head at every sound and does a little dance when the treat bag rustles. These pups deserve names that reflect their joyful, often silly nature. Sidekick names are often short, punchy, and easy for a dog to recognize during training.

  • Olaf: A go-to for white-coated dogs or anyone who just loves warm hugs
  • Pascal: Great for a small, feisty dog that sticks to your side like glue
  • Gus: A short, sweet name for a lovable pup
  • Meeko: Perfect for the dog that is always trying to sneak a snack from the counter
  • Stitch: For the pup who is a little bit chaotic but entirely lovable
  • Mushu: A fiery name for a small dog with a big personality
  • Flounder: Ideal for a nervous but devoted best friend
  • Dug: The ultimate dog name for the pup who "just met you and loves you"
  • Timon: For the small dog with a witty personality and a fast pace
  • Pumbaa: A lovely choice for a happy-go-lucky companion
  • Sven: For the loyal, hardworking pup who loves the snow
  • Hei Hei: For the dog who is a little bit confused but very happy to be here

Tips for picking the right name

When you are narrowing down your list, try saying the names out loud. A name like Buzz or Woody is easy to call out across a yard, while longer names might eventually get shortened to nicknames anyway. That said, names with 2 syllables (like "Flounder" or "Copper") are often easier for dogs to recognize and respond to. Think about your dog’s physical traits — a Baloo might be a big, fluffy bear of a dog, while a Dot is a perfect fit for a smaller breed. Most importantly, choose a name that makes you smile every time you say it. After all, you will be saying it for many years to come. Take your time, enjoy the process, and soon enough, your pup will be responding to their new, magical name with a wagging tail.

The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.

Save up to 90% on unexpected vet bills

Use any veterinarian in the U.S. or Canada

Rated 'Excellent' on Trustpilot

The most comprehensive pet insurance

Sign up for our newsletter

Get your price