68 German Dog Names

From Schnitzel to Bach, Germany provides lots of inspiration for dog names

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Updated on 02/28/22

German Shepherd lying on a pier in front of water — Jody Trappe Photography / Getty Images

If you have a German dog breed, like the little Dachshund or the smart German Shepherd, you may want to give them a name inspired by their country of origin. Maybe you have German heritage or you just like the language or the culture?

Whether you want to give your dog a traditional German name which has significance for you, or you want to name them after a favorite food or landmark, the list below will hopefully offer up some ideas.

Keep reading to see our list of 65 German dog names.

10 Best Dog Breeds From Germany

Top German Dog Names

Max (m)
Clara (f)
Felix (m)
Frieda (f)
Hans (m)
Greta (f)
Otto (m)
Lotta (f)
Walter (m)
Gertrud (f)
Klaus (m)
Heinz (m)
Ursula (f)
Wolfgang (m)
Helga (f)

Tips for Naming Your Dog

Taking the time to select a name that everyone in the household agrees on is so important. Selecting something without a consensus or rushing into a decision and then changing your mind a few weeks down the line isn't ideal. During this crucial settling in period for your dog, suddenly calling them by a different name could be confusing and set your training back.

Whatever name you do go for, make sure it's easy to pronounce, or at least that it can be abbreviated to something simple. Going too complicated will be a pain when your practising recall in the park. It also increases the likelihood that your dog walker could end up calling your dog the wrong name.

If you're selecting a German word for a name, always double-check the meaning before you settle on it. If you get it wrong, you could be shouting something embarrassing or even offensive.

Whatever you opt for, make sure it rolls off the tongue nicely and that it makes you smile whenever you think about it.

German Dog Names Inspired By a Dog's Temperament or Appearance

Owners often like to choose a name that complements their dog's personality or physical characteristics. Maybe your dog is super snuggly, bouncy or stubborn. Do they have a distinctive coat color, are they a fluffy dog breed, or do they have droopy ears?

Below are a few German words that could inspire you, if you think any match up to your dog's unique attributes.

Flaumig (meaning fluffy)
Fuzzi (meaning weirdo)
Gauner (meaning rascal)
Krümel (meaning little one or crumb)
Kumpel (meaning buddy)
Kuschel (meaning cuddles)
Orkan (meaning hurricane)
Panzer (meaning tank)
Sanft (meaning gentle)
Zuckerpuppe (meaning sweet little thing)

Dog Names Inspired by Famous German People

Naming your dog after an admired German philosopher, poet, composer or leader might seem fitting for your dog. Maybe you'll want to name them after your favorite German footballer or musician.

We've listed a few famous Germans whose names might be a fun choice for your dog.