America’s Top Trending Pet Names for 2026 Are Ridiculous. And We Love Them!

Dog parents have always had a creative streak when it comes to naming their four-legged family members. But America’s trending dog names for 2026 show just how far that creativity can go. From animated movie characters to favorite musicians and even unusual foods, some of this year’s fastest-rising names are anything but ordinary. Rover’s annual pet names report, released October 20, reveals how entertainment, internet culture and changing trends are influencing what Americans name their pets. While familiar favorites like Charlie and Luna remain at the top of the popularity charts, a new collection of names is capturing the attention of dog lovers across the country. Credit: Instagram Movie and TV Characters Are Inspiring America’s Dog Names The top-trending dog name in the United States for 2026 is Rumi, up 71% from the previous year. The name comes from the animated musical fantasy film KPop Demon Hunters, proving that a memorable character can influence more than just movie fans. And Rumi isn’t the only entertainment-inspired name catching on. Lumi, inspired by the animated series Lumi and the Great Big Galaxy, claimed the second spot among trending dog names. Sports and music ...