Picking the perfect name for a dog can feel like picking a tattoo. You want it to mean something, sound cool, and definitely not make you cringe five years down the line.
If you’re leaning toward a Chinese name, maybe because of the meaning, the sound, or your own connection to the culture, you’re in for a treat.
But where do you even start when you want something meaningful and not just trendy?
Picture this: someone’s scrolling through name ideas at midnight while their new puppy is chewing the corner of their phone charger for the third time.
That pup still has no name, but they’ve already been called “No,” “Stop That,” and “Oi!” all day. Sound familiar?
Here’s a giant list of Chinese names that don’t just sound beautiful but also carry some thoughtful meanings. Whether your dog is soft and squishy or bold and bouncy, there’s something here for them.
Female Chinese Names for Dogs
Sometimes you just want a name that feels gentle or elegant. Other times, you want something that sounds like your pup could lead a warrior clan.
- Mei (美) – means “beautiful”
- Xiao (小) – means “small” or “little one”
- Lian (莲) – means “lotus”
- Bai (白) – means “pure” or “white”
- Hua (花) – means “flower”
- Ling (玲) – means “delicate” or “charming”
- Niu Niu (妞妞) – playful and girly, kind of like saying “cutie”
- Yu Yan (玉燕) – “jade swallow,” very graceful sounding
- Fen (芬) – means “fragrance”
- Ai (爱) – means “love”
Male Chinese Names for Dogs
Got a dog with a bit of swagger or one that struts around like he owns the place? These names carry a bit more edge or strength.
- Jin (金) – means “gold”
- Da Wei (大卫) – Chinese version of “David”
- Qiang (强) – means “strong”
- Bao (宝) – means “treasure”
- Shen (神) – means “spirit” or “godlike”
- Lei (雷) – means “thunder”
- Long (龙) – means “dragon”
- Hu (虎) – means “tiger”
- Wei (伟) – means “great” or “mighty”
- Chen (晨) – means “morning”
Cute and Quirky Picks
You know that kind of dog that runs into furniture and keeps wagging? Or the one that flops over like a pancake mid-walk? These names just fit that lovable goofball energy.
- Dumpling – not traditionally Chinese, but c’mon, it fits
- Mochi – same as above, sweet and chewy energy
- Xiao Bao (小宝) – means “little treasure”
- Le Le (乐乐) – means “happy happy”
- Dou Dou (豆豆) – means “little bean”
- Mi Mi (咪咪) – a cutesy name that sounds like a kitten’s purr
- Tiantian (甜甜) – means “sweet sweet”
- Xing Xing (星星) – means “star”
- Bao Bei (宝贝) – means “baby” or “darling”
- Chou Chou (臭臭) – sounds like “stinky” but used playfully
Names with Strength and Power
For the dogs that walk like they were born to guard an emperor. Or maybe they just bark like their opinion really matters.
- Zhen (震) – means “shock” or “quake”
- Yun (云) – means “cloud” but can imply mystery and strength
- Guang (光) – means “light” or “glow”
- An (安) – means “peace” but used in many strong names
- Fei (飞) – means “to fly”
- Zhao (召) – means “to summon”
- Rui (锐) – means “sharp” or “clever”
- Han (寒) – means “cold” but has a crisp ring to it
- Bo (波) – means “wave”
- Jing (劲) – means “force” or “power”
Traditional or Symbolic Picks
These names carry cultural depth or nods to nature, history, and meaning beyond just sound.
- Tao (道) – from Taoism, meaning “the way”
- Shui (水) – means “water”
- Feng (风) – means “wind”
- He (鹤) – means “crane,” a symbol of longevity
- Lan (兰) – means “orchid”
- Yu (玉) – means “jade,” prized for beauty and strength
- Zhu (竹) – means “bamboo,” symbol of resilience
- Ying (鹰) – means “eagle”
- Mo (墨) – means “ink”
- Xue (雪) – means “snow”
How To Choose The Right Name
If you’ve ever named a dog before, you know it’s a weird mix of gut feeling and what your pup responds to. Some dogs practically name themselves. Others take a week or two of trying things out loud like a weirdo at the park.
Try saying the name out loud while tossing them a treat. Or call it out like you’re calling them back from chasing a squirrel. If it rolls off the tongue and gets their tail wagging, that’s your sign.
One family tried out five different names on their new rescue pup, but he only responded to “Hu Hu,” which means “tiger roar” when whispered. Ironically, he was the quietest one in the shelter.
Quick Pronunciation Tips
Don’t stress too much about being perfect with tones, especially if you’re not a Mandarin speaker. The effort is what matters most.
- X is pronounced like “sh” in English
- Q sounds kind of like “ch”
- Zh is a buzzy “j” sound
- Ai sounds like “eye”
- Ou sounds like “oh”
A quick YouTube listen to a native speaker can go a long way if you’re unsure. Or just pick one that feels natural for you and your pup.
Finding the right name should be fun, not stressful. Whether you’re drawn to a name because it reminds you of a place, a feeling, or just sounds flippin’ cool, that’s enough of a reason. Go with what makes your heart feel warm and what your dog seems to vibe with.
So, got one in mind already or are you still testing out your top five names on your pup during treat time?