Bella tops the British charts for female dog names with Alfie once again the favourite for male pooches but it’s Rover and out for traditional monikers, a survey shows.
Bella is the most popular overall name in a list compiled by MoneySuperMarket.com from more than 165,000 dogs’ names supplied for pet insurance quotes.
The name takes the lead from Poppy, which drops to third, with Alfie remaining at second and Charlie at fourth.
Traditional dog names such as Rover and Fido no longer even make the top 20, as owners select names such as Molly (in fifth place) and Max (sixth).
Names on the up include Lola, up one place to seventh in the list, and Archie, up to 13th from 15th.
Teddy enters the top 20 at 17, while Barney drops out.
“Deciding to have a dog is a big family decision,” a MoneySuperMarket spokeswoman said.
“As well as researching which breed is right for you, and checking you can afford food, creature comforts, insurance and other pet-related expenses, the fun bit is getting to choose the most suitable name for your four-legged friend.”
She said that Charlie is also among the three most popular baby boys’ names in 2015, along with Oliver and Jack.
However, parents have largely avoided giving popular dog names to their baby daughters, choosing Charlotte, Amelia and Olivia as their top three this year.