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Pugs are one of the most charming and instantly recognizable dog breeds out there. With their round faces, expressive eyes, and goofy personalities, these little dogs win hearts the moment they waddle into your life. They’re great apartment companions, loyal family pets, and full-time mood boosters.
So it’s no surprise that many new owners start searching for the best name for a pug as soon as they bring their puppy home. The right name doesn’t just sound cute – it highlights your pug’s personality and makes bonding even more fun. Whether you’re looking for cute dog names for pugs, something classic, or a funny name that fits their playful vibe, you’ll find plenty of inspiration ahead.
When you’re picking between all the cute and popular pug names out there, it helps to keep the breed’s unique traits in mind. Pugs may be small, but their personalities are anything but tiny. They have charm, attitude, and a whole lot of character – and the right name should match that energy.
Appearance
A pug’s look is iconic: the wrinkly face, big round eyes, and that signature flat nose. Their appearance alone inspires countless fun and creative name ideas. Some owners go with cute or funny names for pugs that play off their expressive faces, while others prefer elegant or classic options. Either way, your pug’s look can be a great starting point.
Intelligence
In Stanley Coren’s well-known study on canine intelligence, pugs ranked 108th in trainability. But don’t mistake that for a lack of smarts. Pugs are clever – they’re just a little strong-willed and sometimes prefer doing things their own way. Because of that, choosing a short, easy-to-learn name can make training smoother and help your puppy respond faster.
Personality
Pugs are beloved for their blend of humor, loyalty, and affection. They’re social dogs who love attention and thrive on being part of the family. If your pug is playful and goofy, a lighthearted name can be a perfect fit. If they’re calm and cuddly, something softer or sweeter might suit them better. Their personality is one of the best clues when deciding on a name.
Activity Level
While pug puppies can be full of energy, adult pugs usually prefer naps and cozy cuddles over intense exercise. This laid-back nature can inspire gentle, peaceful names – though their quirky moments still lend themselves to plenty of funny or cute name ideas, too.
Picking the right name for your pug is a big deal – it’s something you’ll say dozens of times a day, and your dog will hear it even more. A good name should be easy to pronounce, memorable, and feel natural for you and your pup. The simpler and clearer it sounds, the faster your pug will learn to respond to it.
Experts also suggest paying attention to how the name is built: the letters, the number of syllables, and whether it accidentally sounds like words you use around the house all the time. This helps avoid confusion, especially during training.
Sound Matters Most
Dogs react better to sharp, distinct sounds, so a name that includes letters like R, L, M, or N tends to work well. Clear pronunciation makes it easier for your pug to recognize their name in everyday conversation – whether you're calling them from across the room or during playtime.
Keep It Short and Sweet
Long or complicated names often get shortened anyway, and they can slow down training. Most trainers recommend sticking to one- or two-syllable names, three at most. Short names are not only easier for your pug to learn but also more practical when you need your dog’s attention quickly.
Aim for Something Unique
Choosing a name that isn’t overly common among the dogs in your neighborhood or at your local dog park can help avoid mix-ups. A unique name also highlights your pug’s personality – whether you’re leaning toward something cute, funny, classic, or truly one-of-a-kind.
A great name for a female pug should feel just as adorable and expressive as she is. Some pugs are sweet and gentle, others are sassy and full of attitude – and the right name can highlight exactly that. Short, easy-to-pronounce names usually work best, especially for families with kids. Most importantly, choose something that sounds good to everyone at home and feels natural in everyday life.
Since pugs originally come from China, many owners love choosing names that reflect the breed’s heritage. These names tend to be graceful, meaningful, and timeless – a perfect fit for female pug puppies with a soft, elegant vibe.
Mei– “beautiful”
Ling – “delicate, gentle spirit”
Lan – “orchid”
Qing – “clarity, purity”
Fang – “fragrant”
Hui– “wise, intelligent”
Fei – “fairy” or “fly/light”
Ting – “graceful”
Wen – “literature, cultured”
Liu – “willow”
Ning – “peaceful”
Ping– “calm, balanced”
Zhao – “shine, brightness”
Shu – “kind, warm-hearted”
Dai – “to wear / adorn”
Bao – “precious”
Nuò (Nuo) – “promise”
Pei – “admire”
Xue – “snow”
Shi – “poetry”
Min – “quick, clever”
En – “grace”
Lin – “forest, jade"
Zhou – “helping, gentle”
Jing – “quiet, refined”
Li – “beautiful, strong”
If you want your female pug’s name to sound graceful – almost like the name of a tiny princess – this list is for you. These elegant, timeless names work beautifully for calm, gentle pups as well as for show-quality pugs with a regal vibe. Short, melodic names tend to sound especially cute on pugs and are easy to use in everyday life.
Alice, Amber, Amelia, Angel, Ashley, Aurora, Ava, Avery
Bella, Betsy, Bianca, Bonita (Bonnie), Brooke
Cara, Cecile / Cecily, Chanel, Chloe, Cleo, Coco, Courtney
Daisy, Dakota, Delilah, Dolly
Edith, Eleanor, Ellie, Ella, Eloise, Emily, Enya, Estelle, Esther
Felicia, Fiona, Flora, Francesca, Freya
Gigi, Ginger, Giselle, Genevieve, Gloria, Goldie, Grace, Greta
Hailey / Haley, Hazel, Heather, Hermione, Hikari
Iris, Isabelle / Isabel, Ivy
Jasmine, Jenna, Juliet
Kaya, Kayla, Kelsey, Kira
Lacey, Lady, Layla, Lena, Lexi, Lily, Linda, Lindsey, Lottie, Luna
Mabel, Madeline, Maisie, Margo / Margot, Maple, Megan, Mia, Minnie, Miranda, Mona
Naomi, Nicole, Nirvana, Nola
Odessa / Odette, Olivia, Opal, Ophelia
Patricia (Patti / Patty), Paulina, Pearl, Phoebe, Pippa, Poppy
Rachel, Raina, Ramona, Rosie, Ruby
Sabrina, Sadie, Scarlett, Selena, Serena, Shelby, Sienna, Sierra, Sophia / Sophie, Starla, Stella
Tessa, Tilly
Ursula
Violet
Whitney, Willow
Yara, Yumi, Yuna
These names are perfect for energetic, silly, always-on-the-move pugs who love attention and bring a spark of joy everywhere they go. Playful names are usually short, bouncy, and full of personality – ideal for pups who never stop wiggling their curly tails.
Aya / Aiko, Ayo
Bean, Birdie, Bloom, Bonnie
Casey, Cherry, Chili, Chloe, Coco, Cosmo
Dolly, Dottie
Fae / Faye, Fita, Flick / Flicka, Flo, Foxy, Frankie
Gigi
Hailey / Haley, Hattie, Honey
Kiki, Kinsley / Kinsey, Kona
Lulu
Maisie, Mimi, Minnie
Nala, Nani, Nita, Nola
Olly / Ollie, Opal, Oprah
Pepper, Peppy, Pepsi, Pinky, Pippi / Pippy, Poppy
Rainy / Rain, Rina, Roxy
Saga, Sandy, Siri, Sissy, Starla, Suki, Suki / Suki-Chan, Sunny
Trixie, Tutti / Tootsie
Uma, Umi
Vivi
Whoopie / Whoopi, Winnie
Yuki, Yumi, Yuna
Zara, Zoe / Zoey, Zola, Zuri
And if your pug girl is the definition of chaos, comedy, and nonstop mischief, these playful options always get a laugh:
Monkey, Ninja, Pixel, Hippie, Bullet, Crazy, Chewie, Honda, Vista, Simka, Pipa
These names have a calm, soothing sound – perfect for sweet, affectionate pug girls who love curling up next to their owners. Soft vowels, smooth consonants, and an overall warm tone make these names especially fitting for relaxed, cuddly pups.
Adele, Alma, Astra, Ayla
Carol, Connie
Daphne, Dora, Dory
Hayden
Ilona
Judy
Leah, Lina, Lucy
Maya, Molly
Nina
Salma, Sarah / Sara, Shannon, Sheila, Shelly
Tara, Tina
Some pug owners love choosing names based on their dog’s coat color – and with pugs, it works beautifully. Their shades range from deep black to warm fawn, silvery gray, and even peachy apricot tones. Below are playful, cute, and pretty name ideas arranged by color, each fitting naturally for female pugs of different shades.
Names inspired by night, shadows, and dark tones often sound bold yet adorable – a perfect match for glossy black pug girls.
Midnight
Shadow
Raven
Smokey
Onyx
Stormy
Night / Knight
Kuro
Gothic / Gothika
Mouse
Soft, warm tones pair perfectly with gentle, “sunny” names.
Sunny
Honey
Sugar
Caramel
Maple
Momo
Sandy
Mocha
Muffin
Bounty
Oreo
Nutty / Nuts
Milky
Butterscotch
Peaches
Cool-toned pugs look great with names inspired by metal, moonlight, and soft gray shades.
Ash / Ashy
Smokey
Mouse
Silver
Gin
Pearl
Grey / Greya
Luna Gray
Apricot pugs look stunning with names inspired by fruity shades, fire, and warm golden hues.
Peaches
Sunny
Apricot
Fire / FiFi Fire
Goldie
Ember
Pumpkin
Marigold
Marmalade
Donut
Eclair
Muffin
Toffee
Short names with one or two syllables are often the easiest for pugs to learn – and just as convenient for the whole family to use. These names sound clear, friendly, and work great for puppies who respond better to quick, snappy calls. Below are cute, simple options that feel natural and memorable without being repetitive.
Mia
Lulu
Nala
Cleo
Kiki
Coco
Poppy
Pixie
Dolly
Dora
Mimi
Mona
Mocha
Nola
Nita
Ollie / Olly
Pearl
Pippa
Peps
Rina
Ruby
Rosie
Siri
Sadie
Sofie / Sophie
Sandy
Tina
Taya / Tia
Trixie
Uma
Umi
Foxy
Flo
Fae
Chili
Chika
Cherry
Elle / Ellie
Eva
Enna
Yue
Yara
For the smallest pug girls, soft and sweet names work especially well. Diminutive, playful, and “edible” names feel adorable on tiny pups who still wobble when they walk. These short, gentle-sounding names match their baby-like charm and grow beautifully with them.
Minnie
Mimi
Winnie
Poppy
Pixie
Pippa
Dolly
Bean
Bubbles
Bonnie
Coco
Kiki
Cleo
Lacey
Lina
Lottie
Lily
Maisie
Maeve
Miko
Momo
Honey
Peach / Peaches
Sunny
Nani
Nala
Nana
Nollie
Ollie
Pinky
Peppy
Chili
Chika
Cherry
Chappy
Tilly
Tutu / Tootsie
Taffy
Trudy
Uma
Umi
Fifi
Fae
If you want a name that truly stands out – something rare, meaningful, or beautifully unusual – this list is for you. These names are perfect for pug owners who don’t want the typical choices and prefer something with personality, story, or surprising charm. Unique names work especially well for expressive, one-of-a-kind pug girls.
Arden, Astrid, Astra, Atta / Anatta, Ayo / Ayova
Birdie, Bixie, Blake, Bounty, Bullet
Citra / Citrah, Civetta, Cosmo, Cynthia
Delta
Felis / Fellis, Fidelia, Fronde / Fronda
Goar / Goara, Gothika / Gothica, Grow
Hayden, Helma, Hikari, Hime, Hotaru
Indira, Irida / Iria, Ivory
Jardin, Justin / Justine
Maple, Mocha, Muffin
Nacho / Nacha, Nevada, Ninja, Northis / Nortis, Nuts, Nympha / Nymfea
Olsi / Olsie, Oprah
Pigeon
Ray
Saga, Snickers, Sparrow, Sparta, Syrup
Tequila, Tsuki / Tsukiko, Tsuna / Tsuma
Unia, Urania
Varda, Vasa / Vaisi, Vista
Woopie / Whoopi
Yume / Yumeko, Yurei, Yuniko / Yunika, Yuzo
Zeya, Zola, Zula
A great name for a male pug should capture everything that makes this breed special – their charm, their humor, and their unmistakable personality. Short, bold names tend to sound especially good on male pugs, adding a touch of confidence without losing their playful vibe. And of course, the name should be easy to call out, easy to remember, and something the whole family enjoys saying. A good rule of thumb: pick a name that feels natural in everyday conversation and doesn’t sound too similar to common commands.
Since pugs originally come from China, many owners love giving their male puppies names that reflect the breed’s history. These names are short, strong-sounding, meaningful, and wonderfully unique – a great choice if you want something stylish that honors the pug’s roots.
Kai– “ocean; victory”
Lei – “thunder”
Tao – “way; path”
Long – “dragon”
Bo – “wave”
Ming – “bright; clear”
Hao – “good; brave”
Wei– “great; powerful”
Bao – “treasure”
Jun
Ren – “benevolence”
Peng – “rock; strength”
Qiang – “strong”
Zhen / Zen
Fan – “mortal; ordinary”
Fei – “to fly; swift”
Feng – “wind”
Guo – “nation; homeland”
Han – “Chinese; man”
Hui – “intelligent”
Jin – “gold”
Ling – “spirit”
Rui – “lucky; auspicious”
Shuai – “handsome”
Song – “pine tree”
Sun – “grandchild”
Tian – “sky; heaven”
Dun (from Dung simplified)
Kun – “earth; universe”
Lin – “forest”
Qin – “musical instrument; elegant”
Zong – “ancestor; respected”
Chao – “surpass; beyond”
Zhi – “wisdom”
Chen – “morning”
Yang – “sun; light”
Xue
Bing – “soldier; ice”
Nan – “southern”
These timeless names work beautifully for male pugs of any personality. They’re easy to pronounce, familiar, and fit the charming, slightly comedic character of the breed. Think of them as dependable, crowd-favorite options – the names that sound great whether your pug is calm, playful, or a little mischievous.
Adam, Adrian, Angus, Archer
Barney, Baxter / Baks, Bruno, Brutus / Bruce, Buddy
Charles / Charlie, Chester
Dale, Dante, Dexter, Diego, Douglas, Dustin
Edward, Eric, Eustace, Evan
Felix, Finn, Fred / Freddy
Gilbert
Hamlet, Hank, Harley, Hector, Hugo
Jason, Julius
Kevin, Kent, Kieran, Kobe, Kurt
Lukas / Lucas, Ludwig
Marco / Marko, Martin, Merlin, Milo, Max, Morris
Nelson, Nemo, Neville, Nico, Noah
Oscar, Oliver (Ollie)
Patrick, Parker, Paul, Plato
Ramirez, Raphael, Ralph, Ray, Remy, Romeo, Ron / Ronnie, Rufus, Rusty
Scooter, Shawn / Sean, Sherlock, Simon, Snoopy, Spencer, Stitch, Sven
Teddy, Tom / Tommy, Toby, Trey, Troy, Tyler
Vincent
Walter / Walt, Watson, Winston, Wolf / Wolfe, Woody
Zephyr, Zeus
Some male pug names feel especially fitting when they play off your dog’s coat color or distinctive markings. Whether your pug is jet-black, warm fawn, silver-gray, or has a charming dark mask, choosing a name that reflects his appearance can make it even more meaningful – and fun. Below are color-themed name ideas sorted by popularity and American naming trends.
Dark-colored pugs look great with bold, mysterious, or shadow-inspired names. These choices balance strength and humor – perfect for a compact, expressive little guy.
Onyx
Shade
Phantom
Batman
Blade
Vader
Grizzly
Shadow
Zero / Zerro
Zorro
Kuro
Noir
Draco
Drago
Atticus
Aslan
Riddle
Twist
Tox / Toxx
Goth / Gothik
Checker / Checkers
Flintstone
Edgar
Warm-colored pugs fit beautifully with sunny, caramel, or dessert-inspired names
Rusty
Dusty
Cash
Goldie / Gold
Nugget
Mocha
Muffin
Twix
Taffy
Oreo
Snickers
Fudge
Benedict
Budge / Budgie
Panko
Pie / Piro
Finnigan / Finnegan
Cream / Creem
These names draw inspiration from metal, ash, and cool gray tones – ideal for pale or smoky-coated boys.
Silver
Smoky / Smoke
Flint
Apollo
Zephyr
Dusty
Veles
Grey / Gray
Pugs with expressive facial masks look amazing with names inspired by disguises, heroes, or dramatic characters.
Bandit
Vader
Zorro
Mascot
Panda
Robin
Secret
Phantom
If your pug carries himself like a little gentleman – confident, charming, and full of quiet dignity – an elegant name can suit him perfectly. These refined names sound sophisticated without feeling too serious, making them ideal for show dogs or for owners who prefer something classic and stylish.
Apollo
Atticus
Adrian
Achilles
Aristotle
Ares
Bentley
Benedict
Bruce
Barney
Gatsby
Harold
Hamlet
Dominic
Dorian
Dante
Dexter
Julian
Jerome
Zeus
Zephyr
Icarus
Xander
Christopher
Ludwig
Leonardo
Magnus
Merlin
Monty
Mozart
Orion
Oliver
Perseus
Plato
Percival
Rafael / Raphael
Renoir
Rembrandt
Theodore
Tiberius
Frederick
Philip
Hugo
Cherub
Charles
Edward
Elio
Emmanuel
Short names work incredibly well for male pugs – they’re easy to call out, quick for dogs to learn, and perfect for training. These one-syllable and two-syllable names sound clean, friendly, and natural in everyday use. If you want something practical, memorable, and fun, this list is a great starting point.
Ace, Al, Art, Ash
Baz, Ben, Bob
Chase, Chaz, Coby / Koby, Cole
Dan, Dex, Doug
Ed, El / Elle
Finn, Fitz, Fox
Gus
Hal, Hank
Jan / Yann
Kai, Knox
Locke, Luke
Mack, Max, Moe
Ned, Nick, Noah
Ollie, Ozzy / Ozz
Pat / Paul, Pip, Pip / Pippo
Quick / Qwik
Ray, Rem, Rob, Ron
Sam, Scott, Sean, Skitt
Tad, Taz, Ted, Tom, Ty
Uno
Zag, Zed
If you want a name that truly stands out – something bold, quirky, or unmistakably one-of-a-kind – this list is made for you. Unique names work especially well for expressive male pugs with big personalities, unexpected habits, or a comedic streak. These rare, eye-catching options guarantee your pug won’t share his name with every other dog at the park.
Aero, Aesop, Arlo, Atlas
Batman, Blade, Bumblebee
Ceres, Ceylon, Chief, Citrus, Corsair, Crook / Krok, Cronos / Kronos
Dash, Draco, Dragon / Drago, Dream
Elar / Ellar, Eros, Esmo / Esmar
Fabio, Favor, Fudge, Flint, Flintstone, Freeway, Frost
Gatsby, Goofy, Gunner / Günter
Hachiko, Hake / Haki, Hobbit, Hercule, Hiro, Hiroko, Hong
Iolite / Iolai
Kiff / Kif
Lupin
Macho / Machete, Maverick, Moby
Narcisso, Neon, Nimbus, Noodle
Onyx, Orion, Oreo, Orwell
Pickles, Pippin, Pixel, Puzzle
Quark, Quasar, Quinn
Remains? no R? Rowan, Roosevelt, Rui / Rue
Saffron, Sensei, Shrek, Sheikh, Simpson, Snickers, Spock, Sumi
Tamerlane, Titus / Tybalt, Twix
Varne, Viper
Winter
Yak, Yukon, Yukon Jack, Yuma, Yuno
Zen, Zero, Zorg, Zuko
These soft, playful names are perfect for affectionate, cuddly pug boys who melt hearts just by waddling across the room. They often have a gentle, baby-like sound – short, sweet, and full of charm. If your pug has a warm temperament and loves attention, these adorable names will fit him like a glove.
Bubbles
Binky
Beans / Beanie
Nugget
Pebbles
Pixie
Pips / Pip
Moppet
Twig
Tiny / Tini
Tinkle
Skip
Swift
Shrimp
Gizmo
Glitch
Woody
Quirk
Nibbles
Moxie / Mixy
Bonzy / Bonsie
Muffin
Pookie
Puddles
Tiff / Tiffy
Twiggy
Fuzzy
Bumble
Button
Noodle
Goofy
Zuko
Baby Bean
Chirpy
Chewie
Skippy
Scoot
Toto
Yuki
Yumo / Yumo-Bear
Some pugs are tiny energy bombs – always bouncing around, always curious, always ready to play. For spirited, fun-loving male pugs, a lively and upbeat name fits perfectly. These short, punchy, and energetic names capture that joyful, mischievous vibe.
Ace
Sparky
Dash
Zippy
Chase
Fidget
Flick
Flint
Sprout
Snap
Skip
Swift
Bingo
Bongo
Bumblebee
Bubbles
Gizmo
Glitch
Maverick
Moxie
Moppet
Nugget
Nibbles
Pebbles
Pip / Pips
Pixie
Twig
Twist
Tiny / Tini
Tinkle
Trinks
Tox
Vibe
Whirl
Wiggle / Wiggs
Skit / Skitty
Skitzo
Smog
Snick / Snickers
Drago
Dreamer / Dream
Dinky
Dot
Harley
Hutch
Chief
Chompy
Sharky
Pugs have the perfect face for comedic names – that serious expression mixed with total clown energy makes humor a natural fit. These funny, quirky options create a charming contrast and highlight everything we love about pug personality. If your dog makes you laugh every day, this list is for you.
Goofy
Gizmo
Glitch
Bubbles
Bingo
Bongo
Nugget
Nibbles
Pickles
Pebbles
Pips / Pip
Nacho
Dorito
Sprout
Snickers
Snick / Snicko
Snap
Squirt
Twig
Twist
Tiny
Tinkle
Trinx
Toxx
Fidget
Flick
Flex
Elvis
Ace
Shrimp
Chewie
Chirpy
Wiggles
Zoomie / Zooms
Whirl
Buzz / Bumble
Brix
Tater Tot
Moxie
Button
Muffin
Waffles
Goober
Peanut
Gordo
Wobble
Choosing a name for your pug – whether it’s a tiny puppy or a grown companion – should feel exciting, meaningful, and fun. The right name isn’t just something you say every day; it becomes part of your dog’s personality, your routines, and the bond you share. To make the decision easier, take a moment to observe how your pug behaves, how they move, and what makes them unique. Their temperament, quirks, or even the way they tilt their head can spark the perfect idea.
Try saying the name out loud a few times. Pugs respond especially well to short, clear sounds, and a name that’s easy to repeat will feel much more natural in daily life. Whether you prefer cute names, classic choices, playful options, or something completely one-of-a-kind, make sure it’s a name you’ll enjoy calling for many years.
And remember – naming a pug can be a team effort. Invite your family to join in, ask children for their most imaginative ideas, and don’t hesitate to bring in creative friends. A simple group brainstorming session often leads to unexpected, funny, or truly charming suggestions you wouldn’t come up with alone. The more ideas you collect, the easier it becomes to spot the one that just feels right.
In the end, the best pug names are the ones that make you smile, match your dog’s spirit, and feel comfortable in everyday use. Trust your instincts, enjoy the process, and let your new companion’s personality guide you toward the perfect choice.
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