Naming a dog is serious business. You want something cool, something that sticks, and ideally something that doesn’t make you cringe yelling it at the park.
Now if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you already know that universe is packed with some of the most badass, wild, and oddly adorable names out there.

I mean, why go with “Max” when you could go with “Ghost”? Or skip “Bella” and go straight for “Arya”? If you’re raising a little direwolf in your living room, you may as well give them a name worthy of the Iron Throne.
Dog Names Inspired by Game of Thrones Characters
There’s something oddly satisfying about naming your fluffy goofball after a hardened warrior or a queen with dragons. It gives off this cheeky contrast that just works.
Arya is perfect for a feisty, fearless little female pup. Quick on her paws, always snooping where she shouldn’t be, and probably too clever for her own good.
Tyrion suits the small dogs with big personalities. You know the type. Loud bark, sharp stare, maybe knocks over a mug or two just for fun.
Brienne? Give that name to your loyal protector. The one who guards your front door like it’s the gates of Winterfell, even if it’s just the mailman.
Then there’s Jon, simple and brooding, good for the quiet dog who somehow always ends up leading the pack at the dog park.
And of course, Cersei. Honestly, if you’ve got a dramatic diva on your hands who loves attention and always gets her way, this one’s golden.
Names from Direwolves, Dragons, and the Creatures Beyond the Wall
Let’s be real, the direwolves in Game of Thrones were probably the most consistent and loyal characters in the entire series. Naming your dog after one of them? Legendary move.
Ghost is a top pick for a white dog or one that sneaks around silently like a fluffy ninja. Great for huskies, American Eskimos, or that sneaky little rescue that disappears the moment it’s bath time.
Nymeria sounds elegant but still has this wild energy. Perfect for the independent, stubborn dogs who disappear under the couch with your sock and come back when they feel like it.
If your dog is dramatic and a bit of a showoff, consider Drogon, Rhaegal, or Viserion. These names suit bigger breeds like German Shepherds or anything with a dragon-sized presence. Or even a Chihuahua with the confidence of a T. rex.
One guy at my local pet shop named his Rottweiler The Hound. Said it fit because the dog growled at everything except his daughter. Honestly, it worked. That dog had a real “don’t mess with my family” vibe.
Names Based on the Great Houses
If you’re not into naming your dog directly after a character but still want that Thrones flair, the houses have some solid inspiration.
Stark is sharp, simple, and strong. Great for a steady, no-nonsense dog who’s cool even in chaos. Bonus points if they like snow.
Targaryen is a mouthful, but it sounds regal as heck. You could also shorten it to Targ or Tari. Works for a dramatic-looking dog with a flowing coat or one that acts like they rule your sofa.
Baratheon fits a chunky, loud dog who charges around the yard like a runaway horse. Full of power, little coordination.
Lannister might be a bit cheeky if your dog’s a bit of a snob or likes the finer things. Imagine a pup who refuses to sleep anywhere but the fluffiest blanket.
And then there’s Greyjoy, which just has this moody edge to it. Might be good for a rescue who’s been through it all and still stands tall.
Picking a Name That Actually Fits Your Dog
Yeah, you want something clever, but it also needs to feel right. Don’t name your laid-back labrador Daenerys if she sleeps 20 hours a day and only wakes up to snack. Give that name to a dog that stares at you like she’s plotting her next move.
A good name matches your dog’s vibe. Think about how they walk, how they play, and what weird habits they’ve picked up. You know that dog who spins in circles before every nap? That’s a Littlefinger if I’ve ever seen one.
Also, say the name out loud. If it makes you laugh, grin, or feel just a bit cooler shouting it across the street, it’s probably the one.
Funny, Bold, and Just Plain Brilliant
Not every Game of Thrones name has to be dark and dramatic. There’s room for silliness too.
Hodor is ideal for a big dog with one brain cell and a whole lot of heart. The kind that bumps into walls but makes your day anyway.
Joffrey, and hear me out, is hilarious if your dog is a total brat. Like a little gremlin that acts royal but still chews your socks. Obviously only if you’ve got a good sense of humour.
Melisandre works for a red-coated pup. Spaniels, Vizslas, Irish Setters. Bonus if she has that slow, mysterious walk like she’s always thinking up a spell.
You could also go with Westeros, Valyria, or Winterfell if you want something location-based that still screams Thrones. These feel more fantasy and are perfect if you’re looking for something unusual.
A Name Fit for the Throne (or the Couch)
At the end of the day, choosing a name for your dog should be fun. Whether you want something fierce, funny, or full of fantasy flair, the world of Game of Thrones has a name for every type of dog out there.
Just make sure you love saying it. You’ll be repeating it a hundred times a day, and you don’t want to cringe every time you call them back from rolling in a puddle.
Picking the right name is just one part of the adventure of raising a dog. So enjoy it. Play with ideas, try a few out loud, and maybe even get a few laughs from friends when you tell them your tiny pug is called The Mountain.
Who knows, maybe your dog’s name will be the one that rules them all?