Labrador Names: 500 Unique, Cool & Funny Names for Labs

When I brought my two Labradors home, I remember spending hours thinking of the perfect names. Then I settled for names that suited their personalities. One pet was the more adventurous one, while the other had a gentle and calm nature right from the start.

Labs make one of the greatest canine companions because of their loyal and gentle nature. It also helps that they’re super cute too! So, it comes as no surprise that Labradors are the #1 most popular dog breed in America.

In this article, we explore a variety of names suited for Labradors. We look at popular names, classic choices, and even some unique and creative ideas. And, I also share some tips on how to pick a name that’s just right for your furry friend.

So, if you’re on the hunt for the perfect name for your Labrador Retriever, keep reading!

Best Labrador Names

Gender-Specific Lab Names

Choosing a gender-specific name for your Labrador can be a great idea for a few reasons. In my experience, it often helps people understand your dog’s gender right away, which can be really useful. For example, when I take Max, my male Labrador, to the dog park, people immediately know he’s a boy from his name. It helps avoid any confusion, especially when you’re meeting new people or other dog owners.

Another reason is that gender-specific names can sometimes feel more fitting or appropriate for your dog’s personality. We often associate certain characteristics with male or female names.

However, it’s also totally okay to choose a gender-neutral name if that’s what you prefer. I’ve met plenty of Labradors with names that could fit either a male or a female dog, and they work just as well. For instance, one of the favorites has to be Bailey — it’s perfect for a girl or a boy.

The key is to pick a name that you feel connects with your Labrador’s unique personality, regardless of whether it’s gender-specific or not.

Male Labrador Names

Are you looking for a marvelous title for your male Lab?

A fantastic way to choose a Labrador name is to use words that reflect their unique personality.

Another brilliant way to choose a moniker is to look for a title based on your loveable Lab’s coat color — we love the name Hershey for a Chocolate Lab.

Marley is also a classic choice for a Lab. It’s the name of the famous Labrador owned by John Grogan who wrote about Marley’s awesome adventures. Hershey can also make a perfect choice for a male Chocolate Lab.

Whatever you are looking for, we have a range of paw-some names that are bound to get your tail wagging… there’s bound to be one that’s a great fit for your very own ‘good boy’! Check out our list below to find a name you’ll woof:

• Augie
• Amigo
• Alvin
• Aero
• Barney
• Boots
• Baxter
• Buddy
• Barret
• Benson
• Boris
• Champ
• Clancy
• Carson
• Carter
• Calvin
• Corky
• Dylan
• Dustin
• Danny
• Diego
• Emmet
• Ernie
• Espresso
• Francis
• Flynn
• Fargo
• Garret
• Greyson
• Gunner
• Gabe
• Gizmo
• Harvey
• Harry
• Herbie
• Harrison
• Homer
• Isiah
• Isaac
• Ike
• Irwin
• Jerry
• Jasper
• Jimmy
• Juno
• Joel
• Jakey
• Kiko
• Kyle
• Kaleb
• Khan
• Kingston
• Leo
• Loki
• Lotus
• Leon
• Maxwell
• Merlot
• Milo
• Mason
• Mickey
• Noah
• Nixon
• Nash
• Nate
• Nelson
• Ollie
• Oreo
• Ozzy
• Owen
• Pablo
• Phillip
• Preston
• Pace
• Rascal
• Rosco
• Rico
• Ruben
• Ralph
• Sampson
• Sonny
• Silas
• Stanley
• Sawyer
• Timothy
• Tommy
• Trent
• Todd
• Victor
• Vann
• Vito
• Wade
• Watson
• Wylie
• Warren
• Xavier
• Zayn
• Zeus
• Zaki

Female Labrador Names

Finding a name for your fab-fur-lous female lab is easy, there are so many fantastic names you can choose from.

For instance, Sansa is a great choice for a sassy dog. It’s the name of one of the strong female characters in Game of Thrones.

Whether your dog is sassy and fearless, or sleepy and laid-back, there’s bound to be a name for her in the list below, why not take a look?

Unique Labrador Names

Opting for a unique name for your Labrador can be a lot of fun and really rewarding. Labradors are incredibly popular, and it’s not uncommon to hear common names like Buddy or Bella being called out in parks and vet offices. I remember when a friend named her Labrador Daisy and met three other Daisys at the dog park in just one week.

Choosing a unique name helps your Labrador stand out. It gives them a bit of extra personality and flair. Think about it — when you’re out for a walk and you call out a name like “Jupiter” or “Zelda,” it’s a conversation starter. When I meet a Labrador with an unusual name, it always makes me curious about the story behind it.

Moreover, a unique name can enhance the connection between you and your Labrador. It’s a name that you’ve carefully chosen, which means it’s likely to be a better reflection of their traits or your personal interests. For example, if you’re a music lover, naming your Lab “Lyric” could be a nod to your passion while also being a distinctive name for your dog.

Beano is another great example of a unique Lab name for a pup who loves to party! Beano literally means ‘party’ or ‘celebration.’

Here are more ideas.

• Abba
• Apricot
• Acorn
• Aristotle
• Arizona
• Aries
• Bones
• Baron
• Beanie
• Bliss
• Busby
• Buzz
• Cha-Cha
• Chai
• Chops
• Clue
• Chalky
• Cheddar
• Cashew
• Deeds
• Duck
• Disco
• Esker
• Eureka
• Eclipse
• Easton
• Flame
• Frazzle
• Fluke
• Fry
• Gator
• Guinness
• Gidget
• Goose
• Haribo
• Happy
• Hermione
• Harlow
• Hardy
• Ike
• Inka
• Indigo
• Inez
• Jumbo
• Jeeves
• Jorah
• Jello
• Jaguar
• Jadie
• Jazzy
• Jury
• Karma
• Kenobi
• Killian
• Khaleesi
• Khal
• Lilo
• Lemon
• Lala
• Maggiemae
• Magnus
• Marble
• Mascot
• Meeko
• Merry
• Momo
• Nougat
• Napoleon
• Otter
• Ouija
• Orion
• P-Nut
• Panda
• Pascal
• Perry
• Plato
• Purdy
• Rajah
• Ringo
• Ripley
• Sage
• Satin
• Shea
• Snickers
• Socks
• Teagan
• Tequila
• Taco
• Tova
• Tuba
• Tweetie
• Valentino
• Wesley
• Woodrow
• Woody
• Wanda
• Zeb
• Zulu
• Zazu

Cool Labrador Names

Is your pet the coolest canine around?

Then your Lab certainly deserves a title that gives them the respect they deserve. For example, imagine a Lab with a name like Banksy — the name of the famous and anonymous street artist. The names below are sure to blow your mind because they are just that cool.

Funny Labrador Names

Are you still having a hard time picking the perfect name for your Labrador? I’ve been there, and I know it can be tricky. But here’s a fun idea: why not pick a funny name that gets everyone in your family laughing? I remember how we all cracked up when my neighbor named her Labrador “Sir Barksalot.” It was not only hilarious but also really memorable.

Dogs, especially Labradors, are natural comedians. They have a way of making us laugh with their goofy antics and joyful energy. Naming your Lab something funny is a wonderful way to capture this spirit. I’ve seen Labradors named “Waffles” and “Noodle,” and these names always seem to bring an extra dose of cheer whenever they’re called out. R-2 DOG-2 is another favorite funny Labrador name that will go down a treat with Star Wars fans.

Choosing a funny name can be a great family activity too. Sit down with everyone and brainstorm the silliest, most amusing names you can think of. It’s a chance to be creative and have some fun together. And when you finally land on that perfect funny name, it becomes a source of daily smiles for everyone.

Check out our list below and see if any of these names tickle your funny bone.

• Armadillo
• Apple
• Boney
• Bottom
• Boo
• Bubble
• Bustamove
• Clown
• Chewbacca
• Coffee
• Chickpea
• Chicken
• Dog
• Doodles
• Droolius Ceaeser
• Dobby
• Elephant
• Ewok
• Edgar
• Earwig
• Enchilada
• Eeyore
• Frazzle
• Fabio
• French fry
• Frodo
• Fuzzy
• Gorilla
• Guacamole
• Gonzo
• Gummy bear
• Hats
• Hashbrown
• Hobbit
• Horton
• Hashtag
• Iggy
• Isembard
• Inky
• Indiana Bones
• Igloo
• Jellybean
• Jenga
• Juicy Poochure
• Jimmy Chew
• Kanga
• Kelp
• Kitty
• King Kong
• Labradore
• Lilo
• Langston
• Mary Pawpins
• Meatloaf
• Mcdoggins
• Mushroom
• Mango
• Mozzarella
• Nemo
• Noodle
• Napster
• Nutella
• Noddy
• Octopus
• Ozzie
• Poochkins
• Patchy
• Pusheen
• Quack
• Quiz
• Rusty
• Ratster
• Rufus
• Ron Weasley
• Snake
• Sniffy
• Scary spice
• Scrabble
• Toad
• Tootsie
• Tattle
• Umbrella
• Virginia Woof
• Weasel
• Wiz Bam
• Wizard
• Yoyo
• Zebadee

How to Pick a Name for Your Lab

Picking a name for your dog is a ruff job, sorry for the dog puns, they’re just so fun.

The following tips can help:

Match the Name with Your Labrador’s Personality

Consider their unique personality traits. For example, if your Lab is always on the move, bursting with energy, a name like ‘Zippy’ or ‘Bolt’ might be fitting. Conversely, if your Lab has a calmer, more laid-back demeanor, a name like ‘Snooze’ or ‘Chill’ could be more appropriate. I remember when choosing a name for my own Labrador, I observed his behavior for a few days.

Also, think about the little quirks and characteristics that make your Labrador special. Does your dog have a funny way of tilting their head when curious? Maybe ‘Scout’ or ‘Snoop’ could capture that trait.

Consider Their Color

The color of your Labrador can be a great source of inspiration for their name. For a black Lab, names like ‘Coal,’ ‘Midnight,’ or ‘Shadow’ can be a nod to their sleek, dark coat. Similarly, a golden or yellow Lab might suit names like ‘Sunny,’ ‘Goldie,’ or ‘Butterscotch,’ reflecting their warm, bright coloring. When I met a chocolate Lab named ‘Cocoa,’ it instantly struck me as the perfect fit.

This approach can also extend to unique markings or patterns your dog might have. A Lab with a white patch could be named ‘Blizzard’ or ‘Snowflake.’ The key is to be observant and creative.

Keep It Short and Sweet

A short and sweet name is often the best choice for your Labrador. Not only are these names easier for your dog to recognize and respond to, but they are also more convenient for you to use on a daily basis. Long names like ‘Alexander’ or ‘Bellatrix’ are beautiful, but in the hustle and bustle of daily life with a dog, shorter names like ‘Alex’ or ‘Bella’ are more practical. They’re easy to call out in the dog park and simple for your dog to understand.

I learned this when looking for names for my Labs, as I initially thought of ‘Maximilian.’ It quickly became clear that a shorter name like ‘Max’ was much more effective, especially when calling him back during walks. Additionally, shorter names are less likely to get muddled with other words, reducing confusion for your dog.

FAQs on Lab Names

Is it okay to change my Labrador’s name if I adopt an older dog?

Absolutely! Dogs are adaptable and can learn a new name fairly quickly, especially if it’s used consistently. When adopting an older Lab, a new name can symbolize a fresh start and a new chapter in their life. To help them adjust, use their new name often, accompanied by positive reinforcement like treats and affection. Over time, they’ll start to associate the new name with positive experiences and respond to it.

How can I test if a name suits my Labrador?

Observe their reaction when you use it. Call out the name in a happy, excited tone and see if your dog shows a positive response, like wagging their tail or looking alert. You can also try using the name in various situations, like during playtime, at meal times, or when calling them for a walk. If the name feels natural to say and your Lab responds well, it’s likely a good fit. Sometimes, you might need to try a few names before finding the perfect one.

What should I consider when naming a Labrador with a unique coat color?

Consider names that reflect or play off their distinctive coloring. For example, a Labrador with an unusually light coat might suit names like ‘Ghost,’ ‘Ivory,’ or ‘Blizzard.’ For a Lab with a distinctively dark coat, names like ‘Eclipse,’ ‘Onyx,’ or ‘Midnight’ could be fitting. The key is to be creative and think of names that not only acknowledge their unique color but also feel right for their personality. Remember, while the coat color can be a starting point, the name should also resonate with the dog’s character and temperament.

Can I name my Labrador after a famous dog from movies or books?

Yes, it’s a fun idea. Names like ‘Marley’ from “Marley & Me” or ‘Buddy’ from “Air Bud” can be great choices, especially if you’re a fan of those stories. These names can add a bit of character and story to your dog’s identity. However, consider if the name fits your dog’s personality and whether you’re comfortable with any associations that come with it.

Short and Unique is Perfect for Your Lab

Labradors are incredibly loyal and lovable, and they deserve a name that’s as wonderful as they are. Choosing the right name can be a bit of a challenge, but there’s definitely a perfect name for your Lab.

From my experience, the key is to consider your Lab’s personality, their coat color, and go for something that’s easy to call out. You can even think about funny or unique names to make your pet stand out. It’s all about finding a name that fits your dog and feels right to you.

The lists above include all sorts of names, from the classic to the creative. My personal favorites are Beano and Banksy, but what about you? What names do you love for a Labrador? Whatever name you choose, it’s bound to be the perfect match for your furry friend.