Pet Study: The Most Popular Dog Names In Illinois And Nationally

How popular is your dog's name? I know it's probably very popular in your home, but what about statewide, nationwide, or internationally?

You call your dog’s name hundreds of times a year. But have you ever wondered how many other dogs around Illinois, or even around the world, are answering to the same name?

If you live in Illinois, chances are you know a dog named Max, Bella, Luna, or Charlie. In fact, if you head to a dog park and yell one of those names, there’s a pretty good chance more than one pup will come running.

Two dogs playing tug of war with each other

A New Study Takes A Look At What We're Naming Our Dogs In 2026, And Things Have Changed

A U.S. News & World Report study looking at America’s most popular dog names found that some of the favorites in Illinois include Bella, Luna, Max, Charlie and Daisy.

These names are a reflection of a bigger trend across the country that shows dog owners are giving their four-legged family members names that sound less like traditional pet names and more like names you’d find on a classroom attendance sheet.

Looking beyond Illinois, the biggest dog-name trends in 2026 show that Luna has become a worldwide superstar. Across the United States and other countries, names like Luna, Daisy, Teddy, Charlie, Bella, Milo and Cooper continue to dominate.

The days of every dog being named Fido or Rover are long gone. Today’s dogs are more likely to be hanging out with a neighbor’s Lucy, Rosie or Winston.

Four dogs sitting on a path outdoors together

Here Are The Dog Names Topping The Charts Globally

Here in the US, Luna in number-one, followed closely by Charlie, Daisy, Teddy, and Bella.

In Canada, it's also Luna, with Charlie and Milo right behind.

In the UK, the top female dog name is Poppy, and the top male dog name is Teddy. Luna ranks second in female dog names.

Australia has Luna in the top position. Teddy, Charlie, Lucy, and Coco are also extremely popular.

In France, for females Nala is the favorite, and Rio is tops for males.

In Spain, it's Luna for the girls, and Coco for the boys.

Ireland also has Luna as its overall top dog name. Teddy, Riley, Milo and Bailey round out the top five.