Aztec Dog Names: 120+ Unique & Meaningful Ideas for Your Pup

Echoes of an Empire: Aztec Dog Names with Soul

I once met an old, hairless dog on a dusty road in New Mexico, and the silence in his gaze felt ancient. His owner called him ‘Xolotl,’ and the name fit him perfectly. It wasn’t just a sound; it was a story, a whisper from a world long gone. A dog’s name is more than a command; it is the first word in a long, beautiful story we write with them. It’s a piece of our heart, a reflection of what we value, and sometimes, a connection to a history that stirs our soul. The Aztec civilization, with its fierce gods, deep cosmology, and reverence for nature, offers a wellspring of names that are anything but ordinary. They are powerful, poetic, and steeped in meaning.

K-Pop Dog Names for Fun)

Choosing an Aztec name for your dog is for the owner who sees a universe in their companion’s eyes. It’s for the person who values symbolism, history, and the quiet power of a name that carries the weight of an empire. These names are not just for the noble Xoloitzcuintli, the sacred Aztec dog; they are for any dog, big or small, who carries a spark of the wild, a touch of the divine, or the steady, grounding presence of the earth itself. It is a way to honor the profound spirit that our dogs bring into our lives, a spirit the Aztecs knew well and revered. wikipedia

Aztec Dog Names from the Spirit World

The Aztecs had a deep and complex understanding of the afterlife. The soul’s journey was not a simple passage but a four-year trek through the nine levels of the underworld, Mictlan. Dogs, specifically the Xoloitzcuintli, were believed to be essential guides, psychopomps who would help the deceased navigate the treacherous path. These names are for the dog who is your steadfast companion, your guide through dark times, and the keeper of your secrets. They suit a dog with a wise, old soul and an unwavering loyalty.

Xolotl (SHOH-lohtl): The god of lightning, fire, and death, who was also the divine canine companion. Perfect for a powerful, protective dog.
Mictlan (MEEKT-lahn): The name for the Aztec underworld itself, a mysterious and sacred place. A fitting name for a dog with a dark coat and a quiet, enigmatic presence.
Nagual (nah-WAHL): A protector or a spirit double that could take animal form, often a dog. For the dog who feels like your other half, your guardian.
Teyolia (teh-YOH-lee-ah): Meaning “spiritual heart,” the part of the soul that holds memories and emotions. A beautiful name for a deeply intuitive and sensitive companion.
Tonalli (toh-NAH-lee): The life force or spiritual energy given to a being at birth. Ideal for a vibrant, energetic pup who brings light into your life.
Itzcuintli (eets-KWEENT-lee): The Nahuatl word for “dog,” specifically used in the name of the sacred Xoloitzcuintli breed. A simple, authentic choice.
Yohualli (yoh-WAH-lee): Meaning “nighttime”. A name for a dark-coated dog who is calm and comforting, like the quiet of the night.
Ihiyotl (ee-HEE-yotl): The part of the soul related to breath, spirit, and dreams. For a dog with a gentle, almost ethereal nature.
Cicuil (see-KWEEL): A Nahuatl term for a guide or someone who shows the way. A lovely choice for a loyal friend who leads you on new adventures.
Anca (AHN-kah): Meaning “spirit” or “breath,” for the dog who is the very soul of your home.

Nahuatl Words for the Earth

There’s a certain kind of dog that feels fundamentally connected to the earth. They love rolling in the grass, digging in the dirt, and lying in a patch of sun like they’re soaking up the planet’s energy. The Aztec language, Nahuatl, is rich with words that describe the raw, beautiful elements of the natural world. These names are for the grounded, steady, and resilient dog who reminds you to plant your feet firmly on the ground and appreciate the simple strength of the world beneath you.

Tetl (TET-ul): The word for “stone” or “rock”. A fantastic name for a strong, sturdy, and dependable dog with a solid presence.
Tlalli (TLAH-lee): Meaning “earth” or “land”. Perfect for a dog who is your entire world or one who simply loves the outdoors.
Xalli (SHAH-lee): The Nahuatl word for “sand.” A great name for a light-colored dog, perhaps one you met on a beach or who loves sandy shores.
Tepetl (TEH-pet-ul): Meaning “mountain” or “hill.” An excellent choice for a large, majestic breed or a dog who loves to hike and explore high places.
Oztotl (OHZ-tohtl): The word for “cave.” A unique and intriguing name for a dog who loves to curl up in cozy, den-like spaces.
Texcali (tesh-KAH-lee): Meaning “volcanic rock”. For a dog with a fiery spirit and a dark, textured coat.
Atl (AHT-ul): The simple, powerful word for “water”. Wonderful for a dog who loves to swim or has a fluid, graceful way of moving.
Ameyalli (ah-meh-YAH-lee): Meaning “spring” or “fountain.” A beautiful, flowing name for a dog who brings endless joy and refreshment to your life.
Iztac (EES-tahk): Meaning “white,” often used in compounds like “Iztaccihuatl” (White Woman mountain). A crisp, clean name for a white-furred dog.
Tenamitl (teh-NAH-meetl): Meaning “wall” or “enclosure,” often of stone. For a dog that is your protector, your fortress of solitude.

Names from Aztec Astronomy

The Aztecs were master astronomers, their lives and rituals guided by the movements of the stars, moon, and sun. They saw the cosmos as a divine tapestry woven with gods and portents. A dog with a celestial name is one who shines a light in your life, a creature of wonder and mystery. I once had a neighbor with a bright-eyed husky named Citlalli, and she truly seemed to carry a bit of starlight in her fur. These names are perfect for a dog with a sparkling personality or a coat that reminds you of the night sky.

Citlalli (seet-LAH-lee): The beautiful Nahuatl word for “star”. One of the most popular and meaningful dog names from this culture.
Metztli (METS-tlee): The goddess of the moon. A mystical name for a female dog with a calm, glowing presence.
Tonatiuh (toh-nah-TEE-uh): The god of the sun, the fifth and final sun in the Aztec creation story. A powerful name for a male dog with a golden coat and a warm heart.
Coyol (COY-ol): A shortened form of Coyolxauhqui, the goddess of the moon, whose name means “Golden Bells”. For a dog with a beautiful, ringing bark.
Ilhuicatl (eel-hwee-KAHT-ul): The Nahuatl word for “sky” or “heaven.” A grand, sweeping name for a dog with a spirit as wide as the open sky.
Xonecuilli (sho-neh-KWEE-lee): The name for a constellation, possibly the Little Dipper. A wonderfully unique name for a special pup.
Citlalpol (seet-lahl-POHL): The name for the planet Venus as the “Great Star.” For a dog that outshines all the others.
Mixcoatl (meesh-COH-atl): Meaning “Cloud Serpent,” the god of the hunt and the stars, associated with the Milky Way. A strong name for a sighthound or a hunting breed.
Ollin (OH-leen): The symbol of movement, earthquakes, and the center of the Aztec calendar. It represents the current era, the “Fifth Sun”. For a dog that is the center of your world.
Xihuitl (SHEE-weetl): Meaning “comet” or “year”. A great name for a fast dog who streaks through your life, leaving a trail of light.

Mighty Aztec Gods & Goddesses

Xoloitzcuintli in machu picchu. Aztec Dog Names

Xoloitzcuintli Names

The Aztec pantheon was a formidable collection of deities who controlled every aspect of life, from war and agriculture to love and art. Naming a dog after a god or goddess is a way of honoring its powerful personality, whether that power is in its protective instincts, its nurturing soul, or its joyful spirit. These names have an inherent authority and a deep, resonant quality that’s hard to ignore.

Male Dog Names

Huitzil (WEET-zeel): A shortened form of Huitzilopochtli, the god of war and the sun. For a fierce, energetic, and loyal male dog.
Ehecatl (eh-HEH-kahtl): The god of the wind. A perfect name for a swift, fast-running dog like a Greyhound or Whippet.
Paynal (PIE-nahl): The messenger to Huitzilopochtli, known for his speed. For the quick-witted dog who is always a few steps ahead.
Omacatl (oh-mah-KAHT-ul): The god of feasts and joy. A wonderful name for a happy-go-lucky dog who loves food and celebrations.
Tezcat (TEZ-kaht): From Tezcatlipoca, the “Smoking Mirror,” a powerful creator god of the night and destiny. For a mysterious, intelligent dog, perhaps with a dark coat.
Tlaloc (TLAH-lock): The god of rain and fertility. A good name for a dog who loves splashing in puddles or has a life-giving presence.
Xochipilli (sho-chee-PEE-lee): The “Flower Prince,” god of art, love, and beauty. An ideal name for a beautiful, gentle male dog.
Cinteotl (sin-TEH-ohtl): The god of maize (corn), a staple of life. For a dog who is essential to your happiness and wellbeing.
Mixcoatl (meesh-COH-atl): “Cloud Serpent,” the god of the hunt. A strong, evocative name for any hunting breed.
Ppillimtec (pee-peel-EEM-tek): The god of music and poetry. For a dog whose bark sounds like a song or who has a lyrical soul.

Female Dog Names

Chantico (chan-TEE-ko): The goddess of the hearth, home, and volcanoes. Perfect for a female dog who is the warm, protective heart of the family.
Coatlicue (koh-at-LEE-kway): The “Serpent Skirt,” a powerful earth-mother goddess. For a strong, maternal, and fiercely protective female.
Xochiquetzal (sho-chee-KET-zahl): The goddess of flowers, beauty, and love. An absolutely beautiful name for a lovely female pup.
Chalchiu (chal-CHEE-oo): From Chalchiuhtlicue, the goddess of rivers, lakes, and jade. For a dog who loves water or has stunning, gem-like eyes.
Coyolxauhqui (coy-ol-SHAU-key): The goddess of the Moon, a powerful warrior figure. For a luminous, spirited female dog.
Izel (ee-ZEL): This name is often cited as meaning “unique” or “one of a kind”. A beautiful and popular choice for a special female companion.
Citlalicue (seet-lah-LEE-kway): “Star Skirt,” the goddess who created the stars in the Milky Way. For a dog with a speckled coat or a celestial beauty.
Tlaltecuhtli (tlahl-teh-KOO-tlee): A powerful earth goddess associated with creation. For a dog with a grounding and life-affirming presence.
Mayahuel (mah-yah-WEL): The goddess of the maguey plant and fertility. For a dog that is nurturing and resilient.
Cihuatl (see-WAH-tul): The Nahuatl word for “woman” or “lady”. A simple, elegant, and powerful name.

Fierce Aztec Warrior Names

The Aztec Empire was built on the strength of its legendary warriors, organized into elite societies like the Eagle and Jaguar knights. Their names were synonymous with courage, strength, and honor. For the dog that is your loyal defender, who stands bravely at your side and faces the world with fearless resolve, a warrior name can be a perfect match. These are more than just cute puppy names; they are titles of respect for a noble spirit.

Male Aztec Dog Names

Yaotl (YOW-ohtl): The classic Nahuatl word for “warrior”. A strong, direct, and meaningful name for a male protector.
Cuauhtli (KWAOW-tlee): Meaning “eagle.” The Eagle warriors were among the most elite. A great name for a sharp-eyed, noble dog.
Ocelotl (oh-SEH-lohtl): Meaning “jaguar.” The Jaguar warriors were another elite class, known for their strength and ferocity. For a powerful, spotted, or stealthy dog.
Chimalli (chee-MAH-lee): The word for “shield.” A perfect name for a guardian dog who protects you from harm.
Tupac (TOO-pahk): A powerful name meaning “warrior” or “noble”. While also associated with the Inca, it was used in the broader region.
Ilhicamina (eel-hee-kah-MEE-nah): “He who shoots arrows at the sky,” a name for a famous emperor and warrior. For an ambitious and high-reaching spirit.
Milintica (mee-leen-TEE-kah): A striking name meaning “he waves fire”. Fantastic for a reddish-colored dog with a fiery personality.
Tecpatl (TEK-pahtl): Meaning “flint” or “flint knife,” a symbol of war and sacrifice. For a dog with a sharp wit and a steely resolve.
Tlacoch (tlah-COSH): Short for Tlacochcalcatl, a high-ranking warrior title. A short, strong-sounding name.
Xiuhcoatl (shee-uh-COH-atl): “Fire Serpent,” a mythological weapon of destruction wielded by the god Huitzilopochtli. For a dog with immense power and presence.

Female Aztec Dog Names

Malinche (mah-LEEN-chey): The name of the famous indigenous woman who was an interpreter and guide during the conquest. A name for a highly intelligent and resourceful female dog.
Azteca (az-TEK-ah): The female form of “Aztec,” a proud and historic name.
Teyacapan (teh-yah-CAH-pan): Meaning “the first-born.” A name for a natural leader, the alpha female of your pack.
Itzpapalotl (eets-pah-PAH-lohtl): The “Obsidian Butterfly,” a fearsome warrior goddess. For a female dog who is both beautiful and deadly strong.
Xoco (SHO-ko): Meaning “youngest sister,” but with a strong, punchy sound. A cute name for a feisty little female pup.
Atlatl (AHT-lahtl): The name of the spear-throwing weapon used by Aztec warriors. A unique and powerful name for a female.
Tochtli (TOSH-tlee): Meaning “rabbit.” While seemingly gentle, the rabbit was also associated with pulque and a certain unpredictability, suiting a fast and clever dog.
Quetzalli (ket-ZAH-lee): Meaning “precious feather,” but also associated with the magnificent Quetzal bird, a symbol of royalty and power.
Chimalma (chee-MAHL-mah): The name of a mythological mother of a great leader, her name related to “shield.” For a protective motherly figure.
Izelt (EE-zelt): A variation of Izel, meaning “unique”. For a female warrior who stands alone in her strength and character.

Names from Nahuatl Flora & Fauna

The natural world was sacred to the Aztecs, a living embodiment of the gods’ power. Flowers, animals, and birds were not just part of the landscape; they were symbols, messengers, and sources of profound meaning. These nature-inspired names are perfect for the dog whose spirit feels connected to the wild—the graceful, the swift, the beautiful, and the strong. They offer a softer, more poetic side to the Aztec world, ideal for a variety of breeds and personalities.

Male Aztec Dog Names

Huitzilin (weet-ZEE-leen): The Nahuatl word for “hummingbird”. A wonderful name for a small, energetic dog who zips around with endless joy.
Coyotl (COY-ohtl): The Nahuatl word for “coyote.” For a clever, crafty, and resilient dog, a true survivor.
Mazatl (MAH-zahtl): The word for “deer.” A gentle, graceful name for a swift and elegant male dog.
Necuametl (neh-KWAH-metl): Meaning “maguey” or “agave,” the plant of life. For a dog that is resilient, strong, and central to your life.
Miztli (MEEZ-tlee): The Nahuatl word for “puma” or “cougar.” A powerful and dignified name for a cat-like, muscular dog.
Papalotl (pah-PAH-lohtl): Meaning “butterfly.” A surprisingly lovely name for a male dog who has undergone a great transformation or has a light, joyful spirit.
Tochtli (TOSH-tlee): The word for “rabbit,” a symbol of fertility and swiftness. Perfect for a quick and agile dog.
Quauhtli (KWOW-tlee): An alternate spelling of Cuauhtli, meaning “eagle.” For a dog with a regal bearing and sharp senses.
Picietl (pee-SEE-etl): The Nahuatl word for tobacco, a sacred plant. A unique name for a dog with a calming, grounding presence.
Tenoch (TEN-och): From Tenochtitlan, the name means “fruit of the rock prickly pear cactus,” a symbol of the founding of the great city. For a dog who is the foundation of your home.

Female Aztec Dog Names

Xochitl (SOH-cheet): The classic Nahuatl word for “flower,” a symbol of beauty and life. A universally beautiful and popular female dog name.
Yoloxochitl (yo-lo-SOH-cheet): Meaning “heart flower.” A deeply romantic and meaningful name for the dog you love with all your heart.
Quetzal (ket-ZAHL): After the vibrantly colored bird with precious feathers, associated with divinity and royalty. For a stunningly beautiful female dog.
Ixchel (ee-CHEL): While often associated with the Maya, this name for the goddess of the moon and weaving was known in the region. For a creative and nurturing soul.
Nelli (NEL-lee): A Nahuatl name meaning “truth.” For a dog with honest eyes and a pure heart.
Amancay (ah-mahn-KAI): The name of a beautiful lily-like flower. A delicate and pretty name for a female pup.
Cempasuchil (sem-pah-SOO-cheel): The Nahuatl name for the marigold, the “flower of the dead,” that guides spirits home. For a golden-colored dog who is your guide.
Ahuiliztli (ah-weel-EES-tlee): Meaning “joy” or “happiness.” A perfect name for a cheerful dog who brings smiles to everyone she meets.
Patli (PAHT-lee): Meaning “medicine” or “healing.” For a therapy dog or a companion who has healed your heart.
Tlacotl (TLAH-kohtl): Meaning “twig” or “rod.” A cute, nature-inspired name for a slender, delicate dog.

Conclusion: A Name to Build a World

Choosing a name for a dog is an act of creation. In that single word, we plant a seed of identity, a hope for a shared future, and a bond that will grow deeper with every call. An Aztec name is a powerful choice because it does more than just identify; it connects. It links your modern-day companion to a world of mythic proportions, a civilization that saw the divine in the stars, the earth, and the loyal heart of a dog.

Whether you choose a name like Yaotl for your brave protector, Citlalli for the star-eyed pup who lights up your nights, or Xochitl for the little flower who blossoms in your care, you are giving them more than a label. You are giving them a legacy. You are acknowledging that this small, furry creature in your home is a being of immense spirit, a guide, a warrior, and a source of life-affirming joy. The final, perfect name is not found on any list, but in that quiet moment of recognition when you look at your dog and simply know.