The results are in! Every year we dig into Rover’s database of over a million pet parents to uncover pet name trends, including the most popular dog and cat names of 2021 in Chicago and across the US.
While the trends change, one thing remains the same: The names dog owners choose to give their pets are often a direct reflection of who they are, what they like, and what’s going on in the world at the time. As pet parents ourselves, we know how important a pet’s name is and how much thought goes into finding just the right one—which makes sense, considering it’s likely to be hollered across the house about a million times. Whether you’re basing a new pet’s name on their personality, your favorite musician, celebrity, snack food, or your current obsession, it’s got to be just perfect.
So, which dog and cat names are popular this year in Chicago? Did your dog’s name make the top 5 locally? Or maybe even the top 100 in the country? What about your cat’s name? As the world’s largest network of dog walkers and pet sitters, Rover has heard just about every pet name there is. We dug through our data to find the most popular cat and dog names in Chicago this year, along with trending picks. Check ‘em out.
Chicago’s Top Dog and Cat Names
Did your dog or cat’s name make the list?
Top 5 Male Dog Names
- Charlie
- Max
- Milo
- Rocky
- Leo
Top 5 Female Dog Names
- Bella
- Luna
- Daisy
- Lucy
- Lola
Top 5 Male Cat Names
- Leo
- Charlie
- Max
- Oliver
- Milo
Top 5 Female Cat Names
- Luna
- Bella
- Lily
- Nala
- Zoe
What’s Trending
These cat and dog names have jumped up most in popularity this year. They showcase what’s gaining traction in Chicago.
- #1 Trending Dog Name: Peach (+1,597%)
- #1 Trending Cat Name: Stormy (+1,436%)
Chicago Pet Name Trends for 2021
- Chicago is all about Mario Kart and its characters. Dogs named Peach are trending up 1,597% and Luigi is trending up 597%.
- Shakespeare-inspired names are having a moment in Chicago. Specifically, Brutus and Caesar are both trending up 286% and 222%, respectively.
- Raya, of the 2021 Disney flick Raya and the Last Dragon, is trending up in dog names by 697%.
- Chicago pet parents are also Schitt’s Creek fans. The most popular Schitt’s Creek-inspired dog names are Rose, Twyla, Alexis, Moira and David. 2021 put both Alexis and Moira on the map.
More Fun for Chicago’s Dogs
Chicago pet parents have plenty of options for dog-friendly activities, indoors and out. Check out some of our favorite options below.
- The Top Dog Beaches in Chicago
- 8 Best Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Chicago
- Where Can I Take My Dog Swimming Near Chicago?
- Dog’s Day Out: Chicago
- Chicago’s Dog Owner Showdown
Need Care for Your Cat or Dog?
Thanks to Rover, it’s never been easier to find a trusted dog walker or pet sitter in your neighborhood. Search and book the perfect sitter to take care of your Max. Or Luna. Or Bella. Or Kitty. Or Oliver. Or Jack….
Interested in learning more about services Rover provides?
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