**Pets Across the UK Take on Human Names as Owners Embrace Quirky Trends for 2025**
In a noticeable shift from whimsical or animal-inspired names, pet parents across the United Kingdom are embracing a new trend in 2025: giving their cats and dogs unmistakably human names. From Dennis and Kevin to Barbara and Dorothy, the country’s four-legged companions are increasingly sharing monikers more commonly seen on birth certificates than in the park or cattery.
According to fresh analysis conducted by Pet Health Club, which examined data from more than 800 veterinary practices nationwide, this rise in human names is occurring alongside a notable spike in pet ownership anticipated over the summer. The research reflects the growing significance people place on their animals, viewing them as not just pets but integral family members, complete with names that are conversation starters in their own right.
Classic options still have their appeal, with Bella topping the list for dogs and Luna reigning supreme for cats. However, this year’s fascinating insight is how often traditional and even slightly outmoded names have made their way into the top choices. Names such as Norman, Gary, Dennis, Dorothy, and Barbara have all become surprisingly prevalent among puppies and kittens alike.
The report also highlights the cultural influence evident in the names chosen for new pets. Many owners have looked to celebrities for inspiration, naming their beloved animals after stars such as Elvis, Drake, Shakira, Taylor Swift, and Miley Cyrus—some even opting for the full names of contemporary icons. The phenomenon extends further, with a wealth of pop culture references from film, fiction, and even video games entering the fray; favourites include Loki, Thor, Zelda, Batman, Hermione, and Pikachu.
Demonstrating a playful side, British pet owners showcased a flair for wit with puns and creative spins on famous names. The register of recent name choices is peppered with clever inventions such as Albus Dumbledog, Artemus Growl, Sherlock Bones, and Bartholomeow—puns that are sure to bring a smile to fellow animal lovers and veterinary staff alike.
Speaking about the findings, Holly McKinley, Senior Vet at Pet Health Club, remarked, “It’s always wonderful to witness the affection behind the names owners choose for their pets. Over the warmer months, we often see an influx of new animals as families take advantage of the time together. Some of the names do raise eyebrows—Bulldozer and Mozzarella were memorable arrivals—but every name says something unique about the bond between the pet and the household.”
A pet’s name, experts say, is often an extension of its owner’s personality or interests, reinforcing the sense of belonging and playing a vital role in training and socialisation. “Naming a pet marks an important early step in helping that animal feel like part of the family—it’s a tradition as old as animal ownership itself, but seeing human names in such dominance this year is quite heartwarming,” McKinley added.
As the season for new adoptions swings into full gear, the team at Pet Health Club indicates they are eager to meet many more new faces—be they Franks, Dorothys, or Chewbaccas—over the coming months.
For those curious about the most popular options, the leading puppy names for 2025 are Bella, Poppy, Luna, Teddy, Daisy, Charlie, Willow, Milo, Alfie, and Buddy. Among kittens, Luna and Bella stand out, followed by Milo, Poppy, Lola, Daisy, Coco, Molly, Ruby, and Tilly.
Rounding out the ‘human’ category, puppies and kittens are frequently being called Ralph, Frank, Norman, Dennis, Gary, Dorothy, Barbara, and Geoffrey. Celebrities also feature heavily, with names such as Elvis, Miley, Taylor, Drake, Kylie, and Shakira chosen for both puppies and kittens. Meanwhile, character names like Loki, Thor, Leia, Zelda, Bilbo, Frodo, and Hermione add a touch of fantasy and fun to the pet population.
What is clear from this year’s data is that, regardless of whether a new pet is called Kevin or Pikachu, naming remains one of the most joyful aspects of welcoming a new companion into the home—a tradition that continues to evolve with every new set of paws and whiskers.