Whether you have Japanese heritage, a Japanese dog breed like an Akita or Shiba Inu, or you’re just an anime fan (who, us?), a Japanese dog name can be a great way to reflect your interests and passions. So how do you find the perfect Japanese dog name? Rover has you covered.

These names are handpicked from a variety of sources, including our Rover.com database of dog names. We’ve added others from history, art, and pop culture to fill out your options. Have fun and best of luck choosing the perfect name!

Fun fact: the first known Akitas to enter the U.S. belonged to Helen Keller, and were given as a gift. They were named Kamikaze-go and Kenzan-go. 

Top Japanese Dog Names

1. Adzuki (red bean)
2. Aki (spring)
3. Akira (intelligent)
4. Amaya (night rain)
5. Asami (morning beauty)
6. Chiyo
7. Emi (blessing)
8. Emiko
9. Hana (flower)
10. Haru (sunlight)
11. Hiro
12. Kenzo
13. Kimi (noble)
14. Koko
15. Kurumi (walnut)
16. Maki
17. Masumi (clarity)
18. Megumi (blessing)
19. Miyu (gentle)
20. Momo (peach)
21. Nori (seaweed)
22. Pochi (a classic dog name like “Spot”)
23. Rina (jasmine)
24. Ryuu (dragon)
25. Shinju (pearl)
26. Sora (sky)
27. Sushi
28. Tadao (loyal)
29. Toshiko (clever)
30. Wasabi
31. Yoshi
32. Yuki (good fortune)
33. Yuko
34. Yumi (beautiful)
35. Yuri (lily)

Dog Names Popular in Japan

Sora News reported on the top ten dog names in Japan for 2017, which could be a great source of inspiration. The top male dog names in Japan are:

1. Kotaro (small boy)
2. Koro (roly-poly)
3. Choco (as in the English word chocolate!)
4. Cookie (another English choice)
5. Crea
6. Leo
7. Leon
8. Taro
9. Maron (chestnut)
10. Lucky

The top female dog names in Japan are:

1. Momo (peach)
2. Sakura
3. Choco
4. Hana (flower)
5. Nana (seven)
6. Maron
7. Mocha
8. Kurumi (walnut)
9. Koko
10. Runa

Tips for Choosing a Japanese Dog Name

So how do you find the perfect Japanese name for your dog? Think about personality—yours AND theirs!

For example, in this list, there’s variety to fit any type of dog, from a tiny Momo to an elegant Asami.

Don’t worry if you don’t stick to your chosen theme, either. The best dog names fit the individual dog and make you smile. Because dogs are part of our family, and their names reflect what’s important to us as well as our love for them.

For more inspiration and ideas, check out our list of unique names for dogs, along with Irish choices, tough dog names, and many more.