If you go to the dog park and call out to your pup Luna, don’t be surprised if several furry heads turn your way. According to recent data from national pet insurance provider Petsy, Luna has claimed the top spot as the most popular pet name in Australia for 2025, and not just for dogs, but for cats as well.
When it comes to naming the family pet, many are opting for names that mirror their furry friend’s charm and personality. In short, playful, and affectionate names are very much ‘in’.
According to Petsy co-founder Monica Limanto, “Pet names say a lot about how Australians view their pets, they’re part of the family.” This sentiment is reflected in the continued popularity of names that could just as easily belong to a child as to a beloved animal companion.
Following Luna, the most popular dog names include Coco, Charlie, and Poppy, while for cats, names like Nala, Milo, and Mochi join Luna at the top. Interestingly, names such as Teddy, Charlie, and Leo appear on both lists, reflecting how classic human names are becoming favourites for pets.
So what are Australia’s favourite pet names in 2025?
Top 10 Dog Names
Luna
Coco
Charlie
Poppy
Teddy
Bella
Archie
Lola
Daisy
Leo
Top 10 Cat Names
Luna
Nala
Milo
Mochi
Teddy
Millie
Charlie
Simba
Lily
Leo
Choosing the right pet for your lifestyle
We all know our pets aren’t just animals. They’re companions, confidants, a part of the family. So while you might be dreaming up the perfect name for your four-legged friend, it’s just as important to ask: is the pet you’ve chosen the right match for your lifestyle?
If you’re thinking about bringing a new pet into your home, here are a few key things to consider:
- Time and attention: Some pets need more daily interaction and care than others. Dogs, for example, usually need regular exercise, training, and company, while some cat breeds or smaller pets may be more independent.
- Space: Does your living space suit the pet you’re considering? A large dog may not be ideal for an apartment, while a cat or smaller breed might adapt more easily to indoor life. Your yard, if you have one, can also influence your decision.
- Existing pets: If you already have a pet, think about how introducing a new animal could affect your current pet’s behaviour, comfort, or routine.
- Ongoing expenses: Pets come with ongoing expenses—from food and grooming to toys, training and vet care. It’s a good idea to think ahead about these costs when bringing a new furry friend into your home. You might want to check how much pet food typically costs, as well as consider how regular vet visits can add up over time.
Pet insurance can be useful for managing unexpected medical bills, and if you’re adopting a senior pet, it’s worth keeping in mind that insurance premiums may be higher due to age-related health risks.
What are Australia’s best pet stores?
Welcoming a new puppy or kitten can mean purchasing a lot of supplies, from bedding to food bowls to leads and harnesses, not to mention food to support a healthy diet. If you’re looking to stock up, you may be curious about the best-rated pet stores in Australia.
Each year, Canstar Blue surveys Aussies to find the pet store with the most satisfied customers, in categories ranging from value for money to checkout experience, store and website layout and presentation, product range and overall satisfaction, and this year, Pet Circle came out on top.
If you love to spoil your furry friend, you might even consider a pet supply subscription service, a box that includes treats, toys and grooming products for your pet, that arrives every few weeks, depending on the subscription you have.
Cover image source: Patryk Kosmider/Shutterstock.com