Coco is the seventh most popular name for a dog. Photo: RSPCA ACT.
Luna is the most popular pet name in 2024 for both cats and dogs in the ACT.
According to the pet website Daily Paws, it’s a popular name for pets worldwide because it’s easy to say at just two syllables, ends in an a and is the name of a Harry Potter character. The word means moon in Latin languages such as Spanish and Italian.
Meanwhile, the capital’s love affair with the Cavoodle continues, as it’s the most popular dog breed for the third consecutive year, while domestic short hair cat remains the most popular cat breed.
“Thanks to everyone who registered or renewed their pet’s registration this year,” Minister for City and Government Services Tara Cheyne said.
“Annual registration is compulsory for all cats and dogs over the age of eight weeks and pet owners can update their pet’s registration details for free. Having access to up-to-date information, not only helps reunite lost pets with their owners, it also gives us an insight into the most popular pet names and breeds.”
Canberra is known as a foodie city, so it’s not surprising that food and drink names remained popular for both our feline and canine companions, including Baguette, Chickpea, Cabbage, Liquorice, White Chocolate Brownie, Meatball, Miso, Sushi Roll, Affogato, Schnapps, Schooner and Mimosa.
One of the more creative pet names for 2024 is Stroobie Baloo First of his Name, King of the Pittospuram, Chaser of Birds. Other honourable mentions include Vivienne Westwoof, Field Marshal Bernadette Montgomery, Archibald Catsby and Admiral Fuzzy Paws.
Of dogs currently registered in the ACT, the top 10 dog names and breeds for 2024 are:
Names:
- Luna
- Daisy
- Charlie
- Teddy
- Milo
- Ruby
- Coco
- Frankie
- Bella
- Rose.
Breeds:
- Cavoodle
- Labrador
- Border Collie
- Groodle
- Golden Retriever
- German Shepherd
- Jack Russell
- Greyhound
- Labradoodle
- Kelpie.
Of cats currently registered in the ACT, the top 10 cat names and breeds for 2024 are:
Names:
- Luna
- Pepper
- Misty
- Coco
- Shadow
- Rosie
- Jasper
- Daisy
- Charlie
- Ash.
Breeds:
- Domestic Short Hair
- Domestic Medium Hair
- Ragdoll
- Domestic Long Hair
- Burmese
- British Short Hair
- Bengal
- Russian Blue
- Maine Coon
- Siamese.
“Being a pet owner is an enjoyable and rewarding experience; however, it involves responsibilities. Our pets rely on us to keep them happy, healthy and safe, especially as the temperature rises,” Ms Cheyne 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.
“To keep your pet comfortable and cool over summer, ensure they have access to fresh drinking water and shade all day. You can also visit one of the dog swimming spots or fill a kids splash pool with water to help your pooch cool down.
“If you’re one of many Canberrans enjoying a well-deserved holiday away, arrange for someone to care for your pet if you are heading interstate or overseas. Don’t leave your pet unattended and ensure your pet’s carer is familiar with its feeding and exercise requirements. There are also several boarding kennels located around the ACT that can care for your pet.”
City Services has more information on responsible pet ownership, including how to register your pet.
