105 Small Dog Names for Little Pups

Need big inspiration for your small dog's name? As any small dog lover knows, your pup’s size on paper doesn’t define their personality. Plenty of little dogs boast a bold, confident presence—even if they need a step stool to jump up onto your bed. The name you choose is a joyful way to celebrate all the wonderful, tiny-but-mighty facets of your furry friend.

A cheerful Chihuahua and Pomeranian sitting side by side on a sunlit windowsill

Whether you lean into their petite stature or highlight their outsized charm and spirit, the best small dog names are those that feel just right for your individual pup. Below, you’ll find 105 thoughtfully curated names—categorized for easy browsing—with options for every personality, from sweet and delicate to spunky and unforgettable.

Top Small Dog Names

Small dogs are beloved worldwide—and it’s easy to see why. Breeds like Chihuahuas, Papillons, Dachshunds, Pugs, and Yorkies (plus countless charming mixes) bring boundless energy, intelligence, and heart in compact packages. They’re loyal companions, travel-ready, and endlessly expressive. But before you settle in with your new pal curled up beside you—or in your lap—you’ll want to choose a name that truly fits.

Here are some of the most popular and versatile small dog names:

  • Ace
  • Baby
  • Bean
  • Cleo
  • Cosmo
  • Dash
  • Dolly
  • Gatsby
  • Kiki
  • Milo
  • Minnie
  • Nemo
  • Pippen (Pip)
  • Roo
  • Shorty
  • Sprout
A fluffy Pug puppy wearing a tiny bandana, looking curiously at the camera

Tips for Naming Your Dog

There are no hard-and-fast rules—but there are smart, practical guidelines that help ensure your dog learns their name quickly and responds reliably. Since this name will be part of your daily life (and theirs!) for years to come, thoughtful selection pays off.

  • Start strong: Names beginning with crisp consonants—like S, T, or R—are often easier for dogs to distinguish during training.
  • Keep it short: One or two syllables work best for clarity and recall. If you love a longer name, use it on official paperwork but adopt a snappy nickname for everyday use.
  • Avoid command rhymes: Steer clear of names that sound like common cues—e.g., “May” (rhymes with “stay”), “Bo” (“no”), or “Kitt” (“sit”). Confusion slows learning.
  • Test it out loud: Say the name in different settings—your living room, the vet’s office, the dog park. If you hesitate or cringe, keep looking.
  • It’s okay to pivot: Try a name for a few days. If it doesn’t click—for you or your pup—switch it up. A smooth transition is always better than sticking with a mismatch.

Female Small Dog Names

Small female dogs often radiate grace, sass, or quiet confidence—sometimes all at once. These names reflect that delightful duality: short and sweet, elegant and spirited, or playfully whimsical.

  • Ada
  • Bella
  • Bitsy
  • Brinkley
  • Coco
  • Daisy
  • Dot
  • Gigi
  • Kali
  • Libby
  • Luna
  • Mae
  • Mitzy
  • Opal
  • Pixie
  • Rosie
  • Ruby
  • Snowball
  • Sunny
  • Tulip
  • Zara
  • Zoey
A dainty Shih Tzu with soft curls, sitting upright with gentle eyes

Male Small Dog Names

What your small male dog lacks in inches, he more than makes up for in charisma, curiosity, and cheeky charm. These names honor his boldness, wit, and undeniable cuteness—all while staying easy to call and remember.

  • Archie
  • Bandit
  • Bear
  • Boo
  • Dobby
  • Flick
  • Jett
  • Mac
  • Milo
  • Moose
  • Newt
  • Ollie
  • Pepe
  • Peyton
  • Romeo
  • Stevie
  • Tad
  • Toby
  • Webster
  • Winston
  • Zeke
  • Ziggy

Famous Small Dog Names

Draw inspiration from beloved characters who prove that great things come in small packages. These names carry personality, nostalgia, and instant recognition—perfect for a pup with star power.

  • Benji
  • Blue
  • Diddy (inspired by Kong)
  • Eddie
  • Gizmo
  • Jip
  • Lady
  • Milou
  • Napoleon
  • Pikachu
  • Simba
  • Sirius
  • Snoopy
  • Spyro
  • Toto
  • Tramp
  • Wishbone
  • Yogi (Berra)
  • Yoshi

Food-Inspired Small Dog Names

Nothing captures the irresistible charm of a tiny pup quite like a playful food-themed name. Whether it’s a nod to their round cheeks, velvety coat, or insatiable curiosity about snack time, these names add warmth and humor.

  • Blueberry
  • Champagne
  • Chef
  • Chip
  • Clementine
  • Cupcake
  • Fish Stick
  • Gnocchi
  • Lentil
  • Mango
  • Mochi
  • Noodle
  • Oatmeal
  • Olive
  • Pancake
  • Peanut
  • Penne
  • Popcorn
  • Portobello
  • Ramen
  • Raspberry
  • Rollo
  • Pork Chop
  • Sausage
  • Starburst
  • Tuna
A playful mix of terrier and poodle breeds mid-tumble on a cozy rug, surrounded by scattered treats

For more personalized naming support—including breed-specific suggestions and pronunciation guides—visit furpetvo.com, where FurPetVo’s naming tools and expert advice help you find the perfect match for your new companion.