28 December 2025

Canberra's most popular 2025 pet names get tongues wagging

28 December 2025 | By Claire Fenwicke

Luna will be back to claim her spot as top dog name in 2026. Photo: Shayna Siakimotu.

Dogs named Luna might have their tails between their legs after last year’s second-placed Daisy came out on top as Canberra’s most popular dog name for 2025.

But Luna still remains the top favourite for Canberrans to name their cats.

Whether they are dog- or cat-lovers, Canberra pet owners clearly have one thing in common: a love of literature.

From popular fantasy worlds through to classics, Canberrans have brought beloved characters to life with their cat and dog names.

Some of the standouts include Frodo and Samwise from Lord of the Rings, Geralt from The Witcher, Agatha Christie’s very own Captain Hastings and Mr Darcy from Pride and Prejudice, and a special mention to Harry Potter-inspired Albus Dumbleclaw.

It seems like a few Canberra book clubs read Percy Jackson this year as well, with a lot of names inspired by gods and heroes from Greek mythology, such the king of gods Zeus, his favourite daughter Athena, hero Hercules and even Styx (named after the river that winds its way through the underworld).

Looking now at the breeds of dogs and cats registered in Canberra for 2025, cavoodles have defended their crown as Canberra’s most popular dog breed for the fourth consecutive year.

City and Government Services Minister Tara Cheyne thanked everyone who registered or renewed their pets’ registration this year.

“Not only does pet registration provide an insight into the most popular pet names and breeds, more importantly it helps reunite lost pets with their owners,” she said.

Annual registration is compulsory for all cats and dogs over the age of eight weeks. It’s free for owners to renew or update their registration details.

Ms Cheyne also reminded Canberrans that pet ownership was extremely rewarding, but also came with responsibilities.

“Our pets rely on us to keep them happy, healthy and safe. To keep your pet comfortable and cool over summer, ensure they have access to fresh drinking water and shade all day,” she said.

“It’s important to avoid walking your pet in the middle of the day during the warmer months. Early mornings and evenings are best to help protect your pet’s paws from burning. You can easily tell if the pavement is too hot to walk your dog by placing the back of your hand on the ground.

“If you can’t comfortably keep it there for 10 seconds, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.

“If you’re enjoying a holiday away from home, arrange for someone to care for your pet while you are interstate or overseas. Don’t leave your pet unattended and ensure your pet’s carer is familiar with its feeding and exercise requirements, as well as their medical needs.”

Of dogs currently registered in the ACT, the top 10 dog names and breeds for 2025 are: