What a happy day! You have welcomed a brand-new puppy home, and it’s time to pick a name. Pet name ideas come from diverse places, and many pet owners look to their favorite forms of entertainment for inspiration. Anime, a Japanese animation style, has become wildly popular worldwide in the last several decades. Anime dog names can be original, intriguing, and exquisitely beautiful.
The first few days and weeks of bringing home a new puppy are full of excitement. Even before your puppy comes home, the brainstorming about names begins. Sometimes, the name ideas start before a specific puppy is picked out. The anime genre is vast, and pet owners can go in a wide range of directions.
Before you pick out a new dog name, consider your puppy’s breed, size, age, appearance, and personality. Finding the perfect anime dog name is a process, and owners should remember to enjoy this time. Let’s jump a little further into the anime world, learn precisely what it is, and explore some awesome naming ideas.
What Is Anime?
The term anime refers to the Japanese animation style and works influenced by the style. Anime is also based on the Japanese word “animēshon,” which refers to cartoons or animation. Historically, it has been called Japanimation or Japanime, but those words are less used in modern times. The term is used to describe all cartoon work when used in Japan. Outside of the country, it refers to animation works crafted in the Japanese style.
There is an ongoing debate regarding anime. Put simply, in Western culture, some view it as animation that has come specifically from Japan. However, the definition has changed as more American and other artists become skilled in the style and collaborate with Japanese animation artists. Some refer to the genre as all the works in that style, regardless of country of origin.
History Of Anime
The Japanese animation style has been around a lot longer than most people realize. The first anime on record dates to 1917, meaning it is over a century old. The first one was titled Namakura Gatana and ran for just 4 minutes. More recent and recognizable classic examples are the Pokémon series and movies, Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, Sailor Moon, Demon Slayer, Attack on Titan, Cowboy Bebop, Mobile Suit Gundam Wing, Fundamental Alchemist, Death Note, My Hero Academia, Bleach, One Piece, Berserk, Hunter X Hunter, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, Golden Boy, The Vision of Escaflowne, Fooly Cooly (FLCL), Yu Yu Hakusho, Revolutionary Girl Utena, Howl’s Moving Castle, My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Princess Mononoke, and more.
Anime vs Manga
Anime and manga are not the same things, though they were once used interchangeably. Manga refers to graphic novels and comic books, whereas anime refers to animated films and television shows. Several beloved manga series have been given animated adaptations. While most Western and American-based work is geared towards children and younger viewers, a growing number are directed towards adults. In Japan, many animation fans are adults in their 40s and 50s, and the content may be more adult-oriented.
Other, more well-known examples include Avatar: The Last Airbender, Digimon, and Beyblade.
Anime Styles
Anime stands out for a specific artistic style. Bodies tend to be proportional, but hair, heads, and facial features are highly exaggerated. Eyes are often large and very expressive. Plots are action-filled, often full of fantasy, romance, comedy, and slice-of-life scenarios. There are many different stylistic schools within the genre. Most contain vibrant colors, with strong, dramatic lines emphasizing the action. Some focus on sharp facial features, with great exaggeration. Others have wildly exaggerated proportions between characters. Vivid images and enchanting art styles are woven throughout the many different branches of the genres. Some are more cartoonish, while others are realistic or very fantastical.
Anime Dog Names
The world of anime is vast, and the list of names would topple the tens of thousands if we were to try and discuss them all. We have looked into some of the most popular animations and some of the most influential characters in the industry to develop our list of over 300 anime dog names.
Dog Names Based On Anime Styles & Genres
Japanese animation styles and genres vary greatly. There are several revered artists throughout the history of the craft. To honor those who have made this vast and beautiful art form what it is, we have listed some naming conventions and ideas inspired by Japanese animation history.
| Araki | Mecha |
| Ghibli | Seinen |
| Idol | Shojo |
| Isekai | Shonen |
| Josei | Shounen |
| Kawaii | Toriyama |
| Kodomo | Yaoi |
Most Popular Anime Character Dog Names
Of course, the most popular or best characters are a long-standing debate, as people worldwide fall in love with different animation artists and universes. That said, some characters stand out for their popularity. We will start our list by presenting some classic and beloved character names. Any of these will make a fitting, regal, and unique name for your sweet puppy. Some of these names include a first and a last, so owners will want to pick one to use. Double names for dogs are too much for them to understand.
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| Ash | Akame |
| Astro | Askua |
| Dante | Asuna |
| Gray | Chihiro |
| Guts | Darkness |
| Hikaru | Himiko |
| Itachi Uchiha | Kira |
| Kakashi Hatake | Leafa |
| Karma Akabane | Mai |
| Ken Kaneki | Makima |
| Killua | Mikassa |
| Kyo Sohma | Miki |
| L. Lawliet | Misty |
| Lancer | Mitsuri |
| Levi Ackerman | Morgiana |
| Light Yagimi | Nobara |
| Monkey D. Luffy | Noelle Silva |
| Naruto | Petra |
| Reigen Arataka | Saber |
| Rem | Sailor Moon |
| Renji | Shinobu Kochu |
| Roronoa Zoro | Shoko |
| Roy Mustang | Suzu |
| Saitama | Tenten |
| Satoru Gojo | Violet Evegarden |
| Son Goku | Virgo |
| Spike Spiegel | Wendy |
| Taiga Kagami | Yoko |
| Tesuro | Yuuk |
| Totoro | Zeke |
Dog Name Ideas From One Piece
One Piece is a series based on the manga by Eiichiro Oda. It is the tale of a young boy who eats a Devil Fruit, causing his body to develop rubber-like properties. This young man, Monkey D. Luffy, a pirate captain, navigates adventures in the fanatical land full of creatures, magic, and adventures. The series has been around for 20 seasons and has aired 1,075 episodes to date. Netflix has recently turned the series into a live-action adaptation. We ran through some top characters from the One Piece universe that make awesome dog monikers.
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| Arlong | Ahiru |
| Bellamy | Alvida |
| Brook | Aswa |
| Choo | Azuki |
| Chopper | Banshee |
| Chuchun | Brocca |
| Daruma | Curly |
| Diamante | Ginia |
| Django | Ginko |
| Farul | Hana |
| Hachi | Hibari |
| Hanzo | Hina |
| Hatchan | Hiramera |
| Ideo | Ikkaku |
| Jimbei | Kasa |
| Juki | Kaya |
| Kaido | Koito |
| Kuja | Kujaku |
| Kuro | Kunyun |
| Kuro | Lily |
| Kuroobi | Makno |
| Nami | Mani |
| Nangi | Mero |
| Nico | Muret |
| Osun | Nojiko |
| Robin | Noriko |
| Rokki | Okame |
| Sai | Pascia |
| Sanji | Raki |
| Sarquiss | Rint |
| Siam | Roji |
| Tony | Sadi |
| Usopp | Saki |
| Vinsmoke | Tashigi |
| Wapol | Uta |
Pokémon-Inspired Dog Names
Pokémon has been a long-time favorite for generations of children and adults. It is the story of Ash Ketchum, a Pokémon trainer who works through obstacles to become the best Pokémon Master ever. His friend and steadfast companion, Pikachu, accompanied Ash on his quest. The two meet friends and make rivals as they work on this goal.
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| A.C. | Agata |
| A.j. | Alanna |
| AArune | Ariana |
| Abe | Aurea |
| Alain | Aya |
| Alder | Bea |
| Andreas | Betie |
| Aron | Corina |
| Arven | Cynthia |
| Bede | Dawn |
| Blaine | Elesa |
| Blue | Elita |
| Bonji | Eri |
| Cassius | Gardenia |
| Cheren | Gemma |
| Cilan | Haruka |
| Colress | Hibana |
| Dakim | Hikari |
| Dario | Intha |
| Faba | Io |
| Futoshi | Iono |
| Goh | Iris |
| Grusha | Isis |
| Guzma | Janny |
| Hala | Jessie |
| Hau | Joy |
| Hiroshi | Juniper |
| Jan | Kira |
| Jinga | Lena |
| Jolt | Liko |
| Kaminko | Lorelei |
| Kiley | Lotus |
| Laki | Nazuna |
| Nanu | Oichi |
| Pumpka | Sabirina |
| Rawly | Serena |
Dragon Ball & Dragon Ball Z-Inspired Dog Names
Dragon Ball and its sequel, Dragon Ball Z, are another big and favorite storyline in this style. Goku, a warrior with a monkey tail, sets off on a quest to find the Dragon Balls. The magical set of crystal balls will grant the one who has them anything they want. In Dragon Ball Z, Goku is a warrior defending the planet from invading alien threats.
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| Bardock | Aeos |
| Beerus | Akai |
| Botamo | Akina |
| Broly | Annin |
| Buu | Banya |
| Cabba | Bikal |
| Champa | Bon |
| Chao-Zu | Chao |
| Dyspo | Cheelai |
| Frost | Chi-Chi |
| Ginyo | Dercori |
| Gohan | Doola |
| Goku | Ein |
| Goten | Ena |
| Jiren | Forte |
| Kai | Galena |
| Kami | Haishi |
| Krilin | Lisee |
| Majin | Lody |
| Moro | Mai |
| Piccolo | Majon |
| Popo | Mamba |
| Roshi | Midori |
| Tao | Minlee |
| Toppo | Mirami |
| Trunks | Monna |
| Vgata | Nazz |
| Yakon | Neryl |
| Yamcha | Ogma |
| Zamasu | Paozu |
Sailor Moon-Inspired Dog Names
Sailor Moon is a popular classic animation from the 1990s. The storyline follows a teenager named Usagi Tsukino and her path to becoming Sailor Moon, a heroine and powerful guardian who protects the earth with a talking cat named Luna. The story continues to captivate fans, and the world of Sailor Moon offers plenty of unique doggy name ideas.
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| Atremis | Ami |
| Chiba | Artemis |
| Endou | Beryl |
| Furuhata | Chibi |
| Guiro | Galaxia |
| Helios | Haruka |
| Kunzite | Hotaru |
| Mamoru | Juppiter |
| Mask | Kaioh |
| Motoki | Kamoto |
| Nephrite | Kino |
| Pharaoh | Michiru |
| Rubeus | Minako |
| Ryo | Mistress 9 |
| Saphir | Neptune |
| Seiya Kou | Rei Hino |
| Shingo | Saturn |
| Star Fighter | Setsuna |
| Tomoe | Star Healer |
| Tuxedo | Taiki Kou |
| Urawa | Tenoh |
| Yusuke | Venus |
Dog Naming Trends
Pet naming trends are very interesting. They provide data and information about what other people are naming their fur babies. For owners who need ideas, pet naming trends are a terrific starting place. Pet parents looking for more unique ideas may use this information as a list of what to avoid.
One thing to remember about naming trends is that they can change quickly. Trends often follow entertainment subjects like cartoons, films, popular franchises like Marvel, and fashion fads. They can vary by age group, geographic location, and personal interest. Among animation genre fans, for example, certain artists, styles, and storylines may be popular at different times. Social media also plays a role in naming fads and is an intriguing place to find ideas.
Fads can change quickly. Your pup will be with you for many years. Keep that in mind when picking an idea. You want something that can stand the test of time.
Dog Naming Tips
Naming a new puppy is one of the great joys of pet parenthood. This word represents your interest as well as your pup’s personality. It is one of the most pivotal communication tools owners have with their pets. We have a few naming tips owners should keep in mind that help make the process smoother for both pup and new pet parents.
- Stay patient and lead with understanding. A new name is a learning process. Your pup will need time to be trained to respond to their name. Do not be upset if they do not react or seem interested at first. Use positive reinforcement methods like treats, toys, extra cuddles, and verbal praise.
- Consider your interests and wants, but also take the time to get to know your new puppy. Consider the size, age, breed, coat color, and personality. It is okay to use a generic temporary name for your pup, like “Buddy,” “Baby,” or even ‘Puppy.” In fact, come up with a list of nicknames you may want to use long-term and try them out.
- Shorter, one to two-syllable words are easier for canines to recognize. The shorter sounds are also easier for owners to say and for others to remember.
- Along with shorter words, dogs can pick up hard consonant sounds better. For example, words that start with letter sounds like C, D, G, K, P, R, S, and T all have these hard consonant sounds. Double-syllable words are often also easier for canines to distinguish, just like “Lassie,” Slugger,” and “Maddie.”
- Canines respond to words that end in vowels better than those that do not. We often raise the tone of our voice slightly with these words, making them easier to pick out. I know this firsthand. My dog’s names are Falkor and Daisy. Falkor rarely responds to his name. However, he responds to Baby and Bubba far quicker than his actual name. My pup Daisy, on the other hand, comes running right away every time. I rarely, if ever, have to call her twice.
- Avoid words resembling common commands or names of other people and pets. This is wise as it helps avoid confusion, chaos, and hurt feelings.
- Dogs will not understand the deeper connection or meaning of their name. They will learn to understand that this term means more than other words. But canines cannot understand the emotional significance of a word like humans do. This word is special to canines because it means their owner wants them or that it is time for food, a walk, a treat, or another event.
- Always stay appropriate. Do not pick a term that can be interpreted as offensive or inappropriate. It is especially important for an entertainment platform like anime. Some genres are risqué or on the adult side. Additionally, some of the older works may have viewpoints and references that are no longer considered appropriate or are considered offensive to some. Get to know the culture and the specific term you pick before officially naming your pet. Remember that other people have to use this word, too, and you do not want to embarrass them, your pup, or yourself. If you cannot go outside and yell it in a crowded dog park or street with confidence and without embarrassment, the name is not appropriate.
Feel free to change gears if an idea is not working out. As long as this is done positively and not when a pooch is an adult, renaming or changing a name is perfectly fine.
Final Thoughts
Finding a name for your pup can be an enjoyable process for pet owners who are anime fans. Anime dog names can vary in degrees of unusual, beautiful, and unique. Whether they come from a classic story, a revered artist, or a newer franchise, there is no end to the ideas owners can select. Remember to be patient and get to know your pup a little before deciding on a name. We are so excited for you and your pup on this new journey.
