Small dogs have a long history of being pampered by royalty and celebrities across the globe. From ancient times when tiny dogs snuggled in the laps of Egyptian pharaohs to the modern era of purse-sized pups in Hollywood, these little furballs have always been adored.
Whether you have the rebellious Chihuahua or the playful Pomeranian, each one comes with its own unique features. These small dogs can also further be classified as toy, miniature, and small dogs. We’ve got some interesting names for each one of these. Let’s get started!
Little Dog Names
We’ll talk about Miniature dog breeds here. Before getting to the names, let’s get to know these breeds a little bit.
First of all, we know we used the word ‘miniature’ here, but it isn’t an official size. It is often used for dogs that are smaller than the small-sized breeds. They can also be smaller versions of the small breeds. Poodle, for example, comes in sizes like standard, miniature and toy.
These dogs are usually up to 15 inches tall and not more than 20 pounds in weight. They may be small in size, but their personalities are big. Some popular miniature dog breeds include Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Dachshunds, Miniature Schnauzers, Shih Tzus, Havanese, etc. Names now? Here they are –
Name | Description |
Chico | Spanish for small boy. |
Chichi | For the little Chihuahuas but not bad even for other breeds. |
Nacho | For your bite-sized playful pup. |
Taco | If you’re not a Nacho fan. |
Fluffernutter | The sandwich is made up of peanut butter, and doesn’t your pup resemble a peanut? |
Pom-Pom | For the small Pomeranians. |
Weenie | Popular name for Dachshunds. |
Sausage | Your Dachshund may look exactly like one. |
Cupcake | Sweet and small. Just that this one would be healthy for you. |
Button | The switch for your happiness. |
Sir Barksalot | Do not underestimate the energy in these dogs. |
Names for Small Dogs
Let’s talk about a size slightly bigger than the miniature dogs we talked about above. These dogs weigh not more than 30 pounds. Some examples here include Yorkshire Terriers, Poodles (they come in multiple sizes), Pug, etc. While you could go for one of the names from the above list as well, here are some more names for your small dog –
Name | Description |
Nugget | Just as fun. |
Pipsqueak | For the little one with a big personality. |
Atom | Small in size and big in explosion, just like your small dog. |
Scooter | Reflecting their energy. |
Bean | Or Mr. Bean for the Rowan Atkinson fans. |
Twinkle | For the small and bright star of your life. |
Bubble | For the burst of energy. |
Want to go humorous? How about -
Name | Description |
Bark Twain | A witty name inspired by Mark Twain. |
Chewbacca | Perfect for a furry, lovable companion. |
Biscuit Bandit | For the pup who loves stealing treats. |
Teeny Houdini | For the small escape artist in your life. |
Yoda | Wise and adorable, like the Star Wars icon. |
By the way, ‘teacup’ is also not a bad name.
Best Tiny Dog Names
Let’s go to the smallest size out there – Teacup dogs. When we say teacup, it may sound like a metaphor but these dogs are actually the size of one. These are not separate breeds in themselves but a size variation of existing breeds. For them to qualify as one, they need to be between 2-5 pounds of weight, with a length not more than 17 inches. Given these standards, there are six true teacup breeds: Teacup Chihuahua, Teacup Maltese, Teacup Poodle, Teacup Pomeranian, Teacup Yorkie and Teacup Shih Tzu.
Here are some great names for your tini-tiny dog –
Name | Description |
Sprout | Perfect for a tiny dog with a growing personality. |
Pebble | Small, cute, and sturdy, just like a pebble. |
Chickpea | A fun, tiny name for your little companion. |
Minnie | Ideal for a small female dog (pair with Mickey for a male). |
Doodle | Great for a playful and artistic pup. |
Proton | Tiny but full of energy, just like its namesake particle. |
How about you go the opposite way?
Name | Description |
Hagrid | The half-giant from Harry Potter . |
Giant | A simple and bold name for a large or imposing dog. |
Titan | Reflecting strength and greatness. |
Thor | Inspired by the Norse god of thunder. |
Mammoth | Perfect for a massive, fluffy dog. |
Kong | Like the legendary King Kong, mighty and strong. |
Tank | For a sturdy and powerful pup. |
Mufasa | Noble and majestic, like the lion king from The Lion King . |
Gargantua | A name fit for something enormous and awe-inspiring. |
There’s no compulsion to name your dog according to the size, right?
What to Name a Small Fluffy Dog
Looks like you’ve got a Pomeranian or a Bichon Frise. Or is it a Poodle? Maltese? Okay no more guessing game. We’ll work with the information – fluffy dog. Here are some great names for your small fluffy dog –
Name | Description |
Furball | Perfect for a fluffy, cuddly dog. |
Fluffmaster | For the ultimate fluff-covered companion. |
Marshmallow | Soft, sweet, and irresistible, just like your pup. |
Cotton Candy | Light, fluffy, and sugary-sweet in personality. |
Snow | Ideal for a white or winter-loving dog. |
Teddy | As cuddly and lovable as a teddy bear. |
Didn’t like any? How about an obvious but cute one - Fluff?
More Small Dog Names Ordered Alphabetically
A
Name | Description |
Alfie | A charming name for a playful and friendly little pup. |
Angel | Perfect for a sweet and gentle dog. |
Archie | A classic, fun name for a cheerful small dog. |
Aspen | For a pup as fresh and beautiful as a mountain breeze. |
Ava | A graceful name for a refined small dog. |
Axel | A cool and edgy name for a spunky dog. |
Azula | Inspired by the color blue, perfect for a unique pup. |
Acorn | Small and sturdy, like the seed of an oak tree. |
Apple | Sweet and small, just like your adorable pup. |
B
Name | Description |
Bailey | A friendly and versatile name for any small dog. |
Bella | A classic name for a beautiful and elegant small dog. |
Biscuit | Perfect for a little dog who loves treats. |
Bitsy | Adorable and tiny, ideal for a pocket-sized pup. |
Blu | A trendy name for a cool and calm little dog. |
Bolt | For a speedy and energetic pup. |
Buttercup | For a sweet and delicate little pup. |
Buzz | For a dog with an energetic and adventurous spirit. |
C
Name | Description |
Charlie | A classic and friendly name for your small companion. |
Chloe | For a small dog with a calm and elegant demeanor. |
Clover | A lucky name for your little furball. |
Cupcake | Cute and sweet, just like your fluffy little friend. |
Comet | For a dog that zooms through life with energy and joy. |
Crumbs | Perfect for a small dog who loves treats. |
Cutie | For a dog that’s nothing short of adorable. |
D
Name | Description |
Dash | A fun and speedy name for a dog that moves fast. |
Dot | A tiny, cute name for your small dog. |
Dottie | Perfect for a dog with adorable spots or a charming personality. |
Dusty | For a dog that’s down-to-earth and full of life. |
Dexter | A clever and quirky name for a small dog. |
Domino | For a dog with a bold, black-and-white pattern. |
Dinky | A cute name for a very small pup. |
Dixie | A sweet, southern-inspired name for a small dog. |
E
Name | Description |
Echo | A cool name for a small dog that’s always heard. |
Eden | A peaceful and natural name for your small dog. |
Ellie | A cute, classic name for a tiny dog with a big heart. |
Elfie | For a dog with magical charm and a small stature. |
Ember | A fiery name for a dog with a bright, lively personality. |
Emmy | A sweet, short name for a dog that deserves awards. |
Enzo | A stylish and unique name for a small dog with a strong character. |
Ernie | For a dog who’s fun and always up for adventure. |
Eve | A simple and elegant name for your small dog. |
Eclair | For a sweet and delectable pup, like a delicious pastry. |
F
Name | Description |
Fifi | A sweet and feminine name for a tiny dog. |
Finn | A playful name for a dog with a spirited personality. |
Fiona | A classic and elegant name for a small, graceful pup. |
Foxy | For a dog with a clever, cheeky personality. |
Freya | A strong and mystical name for a small dog. |
Frodo | For a tiny pup with a big heart and adventurous spirit. |
Fudge | A sweet name for a dog that’s as lovable as a treat. |
Fizz | For a lively and effervescent pup. |
Flora | A beautiful, nature-inspired name for a small dog. |
G
Name | Description |
Gemma | A sparkling name for a dog with a shining personality. |
Gigi | A cute, chic name for a stylish small dog. |
Gizmo | For a dog with a quirky, fun-loving character. |
Goldie | A bright and sunny name for a small dog with a golden heart. |
Goose | A funny, adorable name for a small dog with a goofy personality. |
Gracie | A delicate and graceful name for a sweet small dog. |
Griffin | For a dog that’s brave and bold, with a majestic presence. |
Gus | A short, snappy name for a spunky little dog. |
Giggles | Perfect for a dog that’s always laughing and making everyone smile. |
Glitter | For a dog that sparkles and shines with personality. |
H
Name | Description |
Happy | For a joyful dog that brings positivity to everyone around. |
Hazel | A warm, earthy name for a small dog with soulful eyes. |
Honey | Sweet as honey, this name is perfect for your affectionate pup. |
Harlow | A stylish and trendy name for your cute little dog. |
Harper | For a creative and independent small dog. |
Hercules | A strong name for a small dog with a big heart (ironic fun!). |
Holly | A festive and cheerful name for a small dog, perfect for the holidays. |
Hope | For a small dog that brings comfort and light to your life. |
Hiccup | A funny and adorable name for a small dog with a quirky personality. |
Hugo | A dignified name for a small dog with a noble presence. |
I
Name | Description |
Icy | For a cool and calm small dog with an icy demeanor. |
Iggy | A playful name for a small dog with a spunky personality. |
Indie | A trendy name for an independent and unique dog. |
Iris | A beautiful and colorful name for a small dog. |
Isla | A serene and lovely name for a small dog with a peaceful nature. |
Ivy | A nature-inspired name for a small dog who loves adventure. |
Izzy | A fun, spunky name for a small dog with loads of energy. |
Impy | A mischievous name for a small dog with a playful spirit. |
Itsy | For a tiny pup who’s small but full of personality. |
Inky | A cute name for a small, dark-colored dog. |
J
Name | Description |
Jack | A timeless and friendly name for a small dog. |
Jax | A modern and edgy name for a bold little pup. |
Jade | A cool and vibrant name for a small dog with a sparkling personality. |
Jellybean | For a sweet dog with a colorful, joyful spirit. |
Jet | A fast and sleek name for a small dog with boundless energy. |
Jewel | A name for a precious and beautiful small dog. |
Joey | A playful and fun name for a dog that’s always bouncing around. |
Josie | A sweet and friendly name for a small dog with a loving heart. |
Juno | For a dog with an energetic and lively nature. |
Jingles | A festive name for a small dog who loves the holiday season. |
K
Name | Description |
Kai | A strong name for a small dog with a calm, collected demeanor. |
Kiki | A fun, quirky name for a small dog that loves attention. |
King | For a little dog with a royal presence. (Ironically cute!) |
Koda | A cool, trendy name for a small dog with a powerful personality. |
Kona | A tropical-inspired name for a fun and adventurous small dog. |
Kylie | A playful and cute name for a small dog who loves to run around. |
Karma | For a dog who always seems to get back what they give to the world. |
Kiwi | A quirky name for a small dog with a unique personality. |
Koko | For a stylish and fun small dog who loves attention. |
Knick-Knack | Perfect for a dog that’s always up to something fun and mischievous. |
L
Name | Description |
Larkspur | A nature-inspired name for a small dog that loves to explore. |
LuluBelle | For a tiny pup with an elegant and charming personality. |
Lysander | A unique name with a hint of mystery for your bold little dog. |
Lemmy | A quirky name for a small dog with a rock-and-roll personality. |
Lynx | A cool name for a small, sleek dog with an adventurous spirit. |
Larkin | A distinctive name for a playful and energetic dog. |
Lunette | For a small dog with a celestial charm, like a crescent moon. |
Lavender | For a delicate and fragrant dog, soft as the flower it’s named after. |
Liro | A short, snappy name for a small dog with a fierce spirit. |
M
Name | Description |
Mistral | A gentle breeze, perfect for a small dog with a free-spirited nature. |
Marigold | A vibrant and sunny name for a cheerful and bright dog. |
Mochi | A cute name inspired by the soft, sweet Japanese treat. |
Maverick | For a dog that’s independent and doesn’t follow the crowd. |
Mimosa | A refreshing and sparkling name for a lively, joyful dog. |
Monet | For a small dog with an artistic, graceful presence. |
Moxie | A name for a dog with an energetic and spunky attitude. |
Morrison | For a dog that marches to the beat of their own drum. |
Muse | For the dog that inspires creativity and joy in everyone they meet. |
N
Name | Description |
Nebula | For a small dog that’s out of this world, with a cosmic personality. |
Nyx | A dark, mysterious name perfect for a small dog with a unique aura. |
Nox | For a small dog with a mysterious or nocturnal side. |
Navi | A cute, adventurous name inspired by explorers. |
Nessa | A refined and elegant name for a small dog with poise and charm. |
Noble | For a dog with a dignified presence despite their small size. |
Neri | A short and unique name for a quiet, calm dog with a deep personality. |
Nip | For a small dog with a spunky, feisty personality. |
Noodle | Quirky and fun, perfect for a little dog that’s always wriggling around. |
O
Name | Description |
Oberon | A majestic name for a small dog with a regal air. |
Osiris | A strong and powerful name for a small dog with ancient grace. |
Odyssey | For a dog that’s always ready for adventure and discovery. |
Olivier | A unique and elegant name for a small dog with sophistication. |
Ollivander | For a magical little dog with a sense of mystery and wonder. |
Oona | A playful and light-hearted name for a dog with a whimsical nature. |
Octave | For a small dog with a deep, resonant bark and musical soul. |
P
Name | Description |
Pasha | A unique name with a touch of royalty for your elegant little pup. |
Pesto | For a small dog with a flavor for life, spunky and fresh. |
Peregrine | A name for a small dog with adventurous and soaring energy. |
Phantom | For a dog that’s mysterious and tends to sneak around. |
Pipkin | A small, sweet, and playful name for a tiny dog with a big heart. |
Pippin | For a dog that’s full of energy and always ready to explore. |
Proust | A quirky, intellectual name for a dog with a creative spirit. |
Pompadour | A regal name for a small dog that has a flair for fashion. |
Pumpernickel | For a dog with a delightful and quirky nature. |
Puffin | For a small, cute, and round little dog that’s always waddling around. |
Q
Name | Description |
Quixote | A whimsical and adventurous name for a dog with an idealistic spirit. |
Quantum | For a dog with a mysterious energy that can’t be fully explained. |
Quest | For a dog that’s always on a journey, discovering new things. |
Quincy | A classic, elegant name for a small dog with charm and wit. |
Queenie | For a small dog that rules your heart with a regal presence. |
Quasar | A name for a small dog that shines brightly with energy and charm. |
Quinn | A strong and unique name for a dog with a bold and independent spirit. |
Quill | For a small dog with a sharp mind and a creative personality. |
Quizzy | For a playful, brainy dog that loves to figure things out. |
Quibble | For a small dog that loves to make noise and raise a little ruckus. |
X
Name | Description |
Xeno | A distinctive name for a small dog with an out-of-this-world charm. |
Xara | A unique and powerful name for a small dog that stands out from the crowd. |
Xenith | A name for a small dog that’s always reaching new heights. |
Xander | A bold, adventurous name for a small dog that’s destined for greatness. |
Xylo | For a small dog with a musical spirit and a love for rhythm. |
Ximena | An elegant and graceful name for a small dog with a sophisticated vibe. |
Xandra | A striking name for a little dog with a bold and commanding presence. |
Xypher | For a small dog that brings a mysterious energy wherever they go. |
Xoey | A cute and playful name for a small dog with a joyful personality. |
Xotic | A one-of-a-kind name for a dog that’s truly unique. |
Y
Name | Description |
Yara | A name with an exotic, mystical touch for a small dog with an enchanting presence. |
Yeti | For a small dog that’s mysterious and elusive, just like the creature. |
Yuki | A name for a small dog with a gentle nature, inspired by the snow. |
Yen | For a small dog with a desire for adventure, always on the lookout for something new. |
Yolo | For a dog that’s full of life and lives for the moment. |
Yogurt | A quirky name for a small dog that’s smooth and sweet. |
Yonder | For a small dog that’s always curious, looking beyond the horizon. |
Yolanda | For a small dog with a soulful, loving spirit. |
Yarn | A playful name for a small dog that loves to tug and chase. |
Z
Name | Description |
Zephyr | A gentle breeze, perfect for a small dog with a calm and peaceful demeanor. |
Zelda | A name for a small dog that’s adventurous and full of spirit. |
Ziggy | A funky name for a dog with a fun, playful personality. |
Zorro | For a small dog with a mysterious and dashing character. |
Zigzag | A name for a dog that’s always darting around, full of energy. |
Zuna | A short and sweet name for a small dog with a unique vibe. |
Zuri | For a small dog with a noble and elegant presence. |
Zion | A strong and regal name for a small dog with a commanding aura. |
Zara | A beautiful and striking name for a small dog with a bold and unique presence. |
Audrey Halfen: Beta fish whisperer - whopping 9 months and counting! Once had a dog named Max, who I assertively claim is the cutest dog ever. Ready to throw down in a cute-off, if necessary.
Hill’s Pet Nutrition. (2022, August 30). Typical health problems in small breed dogs. https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/healthcare/common-health-problems-in-small-dogs?lightboxfired=true#
Hitchcock, K. (2024, May 29). 22 Popular Miniature Dog Breeds (With Pictures) – Dogster. Dogster. https://www.dogster.com/dog-breeds/miniature-dog-breeds
Conklin, L. M. (2024, May 31). 31 Toy Dog Breeds that Stay Puppy-Sized Forever. Reader’s Digest. https://www.rd.com/article/toy-dog-breeds/
