Biblical Dog Names: 100+ Meaningful & Unique Ideas

Choosing a name for a dog is one of the first, most intimate acts of our life together. It’s a word we will say thousands of times—in moments of joy, in calls from across a field, in soft whispers at the end of the day. A name is more than a label; it’s a story, a wish, a piece of our heart given to another living being. When we reach into the ancient, resonant world of the Bible for a name, we are doing something profound. We are connecting our modern companions to stories of faith, struggle, devotion, and grace that have shaped human culture for millennia. These aren’t just names; they are echoes of history, carrying a weight and beauty that can give our dogs a legacy from the moment they enter our lives.

I once met a quiet, soulful Border Collie on a farm in upstate New York whose name was Amos. His owner, a thoughtful older man, told me he named him after the prophet who spoke for the poor and voiceless. The name fit him perfectly. Amos didn’t bark much, but his gaze was deep and knowing, a silent advocate for the simple truths of the world: a warm patch of sun, a good scratch behind the ears, the loyalty of a friend. That is the power of a biblical name. It offers a narrative, a depth of character that can beautifully mirror the soul we see in our dog’s eyes. These unique dog name ideas are for those who seek not just a sound, but a story.

Labrador dog names

Kings and Warriors of Old

These are names that carry the weight of leadership, courage, and unyielding strength. They are drawn from the kings, judges, and warriors of the Old Testament—figures who led armies, built nations, and faced down giants. A name from this list is perfect for a dog with a powerful presence, a protective spirit, and a heart full of valor. Whether it’s a German Shepherd watching over your home or a determined little terrier with the spirit of a lion, these names bestow an air of nobility and fortitude. They speak of ancient battles and timeless bravery, ideal for a dog who is the steadfast king of your castle.

These names are more than just regal; they are rooted in tales of complexity and humanity. David wasn’t just a king who defeated Goliath; he was a poet and a shepherd. Solomon was known for his wisdom, but also for his deep love of life and creation. Gideon, a reluctant hero, rose to greatness through faith. These stories give the names a rich texture, reflecting the multifaceted personality of a dog—brave one moment, gentle the next. Choosing one of these meaningful male dog names is a nod to the quiet strength and noble spirit you see in your companion, the protector of your family and keeper of your heart.

Asa (A king of Judah known for his faith and reforms; perfect for a dog with a pure heart).
Boaz (A wealthy and honorable landowner who showed great kindness; for a noble and gentle dog).
Caleb (One of two spies who brought back a good report of the Promised Land, symbolizing faith and perseverance).
David (The shepherd who became a great king, known for his courage and poetic soul).
Gideon (A reluctant judge who became a mighty warrior; for a dog who grows into his confidence).
Hezekiah (A righteous king of Judah; a noble name for a dignified dog, can be shortened to “Kiah”).
Isaac (Son of Abraham, his name means “he will laugh”; for a dog that brings endless joy).
Jedidiah (The name given to Solomon by the prophet Nathan, meaning “beloved of the Lord”).
Jesse (The father of King David; a name that signifies roots and strength).
Joah (A Hebrew name meaning “God is his brother,” representing a bond of loyalty).
Josiah (A revered king who restored the law of God in Judah; for a dog with an old soul).
Judah (From the Hebrew for “praised,” the name of one of Jacob’s sons and a great tribe).
Levi (A son of Jacob whose descendants became the priestly tribe; for a dog with a dignified and set-apart nature).
Samson (Known for his incredible strength, but also his deep passion and vulnerability).
Saul (The first king of Israel, a name that carries an air of tragic power).
Solomon (A king famed for his immense wisdom and wealth; ideal for a calm, knowing dog).
Uzziah (A powerful king of Judah whose name means “my strength is Yahweh”).
Zadok (The high priest who anointed King Solomon, symbolizing loyalty and spiritual authority).

Queens and Matriarchs of Grace

The women of the Bible are figures of immense courage, grace, and resilience. Their stories are not always ones of power in a traditional sense, but of quiet strength, unwavering faith, and fierce devotion that shaped the course of history. These female dog names are for the pup with a dignified spirit, a gentle soul, or a heart full of protective love. I think of the quiet wisdom in an older rescue dog’s eyes or the graceful loyalty of a Golden Retriever. These names are imbued with elegance and meaning.

From Esther, the queen who risked everything for her people, to Ruth, whose loyalty is a story for the ages, these names carry a profound narrative. They are perfect for a dog who is the heart of the home, whose presence is both comforting and powerful. A dog named Abigail, for instance, might be a peacemaker, wise and diplomatic. A dog named Miriam might have a spirited, celebratory nature. These are not just pretty names; they are tributes to the matriarchs of history and legend, a beautiful choice for the queen of your heart.

Abigail (A wise and discerning woman whose name means “my father is joy”).
Bathsheba (Wife of King David and mother of Solomon, a name of beauty and royalty).
Deborah (A prophetess and judge who led Israel, symbolizing wisdom and leadership).
Dinah (The daughter of Jacob, a quiet name with a deep history).
Esther (A Jewish queen of Persia who showed immense bravery; for a beautiful and courageous dog).
Eve (The first woman, her name means “to live”; a primal, powerful name for a dog full of life).
Hannah (A woman of deep faith whose name means “grace” or “favor”).
Jael (A heroic woman who defeated an enemy commander; a name for a surprisingly fierce and clever pup).
Jemima (One of the beautiful daughters of Job, her name means “dove”).
Leah (Jacob’s first wife, a matriarch whose name is thought to mean “weary” but symbolizes devotion).
Lois (The grandmother of Timothy, praised for her sincere faith; a sweet name for a gentle dog).
Martha (A friend of Jesus, known for her hospitality and hardworking nature).
Miriam (The sister of Moses, a prophetess who led the women in song and dance).
Naomi (A matriarch who endured loss but found joy again, her name means “pleasantness”).
Prisca (A short form of Priscilla, a leader in the early church; for a clever and loyal companion).
Rachel (A beloved wife of Jacob, her name means “ewe,” symbolizing gentleness).
Rebekah (A matriarch known for her kindness and decisiveness at the well).
Ruth (A symbol of loyalty and devotion, a perfect name for a faithful companion).
Sarai (The original name of Sarah, meaning “my princess”).
Tirzah (A Hebrew name meaning “she is my delight,” found in the Song of Solomon).

Angel Yorkshire Terrier - biblical names

Yorkshire Terrier names

The Faithful Shepherds

In the biblical world, a shepherd was a symbol of unwavering care, protection, and gentle guidance. It was a role of immense responsibility, watching over the flock through long days and dark nights. Many of the Bible’s most important figures, from Abel and Moses to King David himself, were shepherds. These names are perfect for dogs with a natural instinct to watch over their family, for herding breeds, or for any loyal companion who is your constant shadow. They evoke a sense of quiet authority and steadfast love.

A dog with a shepherd’s name seems to carry an ancient wisdom. I think of a sturdy Bernese Mountain Dog named Abel, watching over the children in the yard, or a quick-witted Australian Shepherd named Micah, guiding his human on a hike. These names are grounded and earthy, connected to the land and to the profound bond between a protector and those they love. They are humble yet strong, making them some of the most meaningful dog names for a true and faithful friend.

Abel (The second son of Adam, a shepherd whose offering was favored by God).
Amos (A shepherd from Judah who became a prophet, speaking for justice and righteousness).
Asaph (A musician and leader in David’s court, his name is associated with many psalms).
Ethan (A wise man in the court of Solomon, his name means “strong” or “enduring”).
Ezra (A priest and scribe who helped lead the people back to their faith; a name of wisdom).
Jabal (Described in Genesis as “the father of those who dwell in tents and have livestock”).
Jethro (Moses’ father-in-law, a priest of Midian who gave wise counsel; great for a wise old dog).
Micah (A prophet who championed the humble and spoke of justice and mercy).
Moses (Though a prince of Egypt, he became a shepherd in Midian before leading his people).
Philemon (A name meaning “loving” or “affectionate,” belonging to a leader in the early church).
Reuben (The eldest son of Jacob, a name that suggests responsibility).
Shiloh (A place of peace and a biblical name meaning “tranquil”; for a calm, serene dog).
Silas (A companion of the Apostle Paul, his name means “forest” or “woods”).
Zebulun (A son of Jacob, his name is associated with dwelling and honor).

Whispers of the Prophets

The prophets were the poets and mystics of the Bible, individuals who saw the world with a different kind of clarity. Their names resonate with wisdom, conviction, and a touch of the wild. These are names for the soulful dog, the one with deep, knowing eyes who seems to understand your moods before you do. They are fitting for a dog who is a bit of an old soul, perhaps a Basset Hound with a ponderous gaze or a sleek Greyhound who seems to carry ancient secrets in his stillness.

Choosing a prophet’s name gives a dog an air of dignity and purpose. I once knew a scruffy terrier mix named Elijah, and he had a fire in him that lived up to his namesake, who was taken up to heaven in a chariot of fire. These names are not for the faint of heart; they are powerful and resonant. A dog named Isaiah might be a comforter, while a dog named Jonah might have a mischievous and adventurous spirit. These unique dog names connect your pet to a tradition of speaking truth, even if that truth is just a bark to say it’s time for dinner.

Amos (A prophet of social justice, his name is strong and simple).
Balaam (A diviner whose donkey famously spoke to him; a quirky choice for a clever dog).
Daniel (A prophet known for his wisdom and courage in the lion’s den).
Elijah (A powerful prophet who performed miracles, his name has an fiery, epic feel).
Elisha (The successor to Elijah, known for his healing and compassion).
Ezekiel (A prophet of visions, often shortened to the friendly “Zeke”).
Hosea (A prophet whose life was a metaphor for God’s redeeming love).
Isaiah (A major prophet whose name means “God is salvation”; a classic and powerful name).
Jeremiah (A prophet known for his deep passion and perseverance in hard times).
Joel (A prophet whose name means “Yahweh is God”; short, strong, and classic).
Jonah (The reluctant prophet who was swallowed by a great fish; for a dog with an adventurous or stubborn streak).
Malachi (The last of the prophets in the Old Testament, his name means “my messenger”).
Nahum (A prophet whose name means “comforter”; perfect for a therapy or emotional support dog).
Obadiah (A short and powerful prophetic book, the name means “servant of God”).
Samuel (The last of the judges and the first of the prophets, he anointed two kings).
Zephaniah (A prophet whose name means “hidden by God”; for a shy dog who has come out of his shell).

Demon dog names

Names from the Natural World

The Bible is rich with imagery from the natural world—towering cedars, fruitful olive trees, gentle doves, and steadfast rocks. These names connect a dog to the earth, to the simple, beautiful, and enduring elements of creation. They are a wonderful choice for the dog who loves the outdoors, who is most at home on a forest trail or by the water’s edge. These names feel organic and pure, a tribute to the grounding presence our dogs bring into our lives.

A dog named Eden evokes a sense of paradise and innocence, perfect for a puppy just discovering the world. A strong, stoic dog might be a perfect Zion, a name that means a fortress or a high place. A sweet, gentle female pup could be a lovely Dove. I’ve always been drawn to these names because they remind me that our connection to our dogs is part of a larger, natural order. They are as fundamental as the earth beneath our feet and the sky above our heads.

Adam (Meaning “man” or “earth,” connecting to the very soil of creation).
Arnon (A river and valley in ancient Israel; a beautiful name for a water-loving dog).
Asherah (An ancient goddess associated with sacred trees; for a dog with a mystical, feminine energy).
Carmel (Meaning “garden” or “orchard”; a lush, beautiful name for a female dog).
Cedar (The strong, aromatic trees of Lebanon are symbols of strength and majesty).
Dove (A symbol of peace, purity, and the Holy Spirit).
Eden (The earthly paradise, a name that evokes innocence and beauty).
Elon (A Hebrew name meaning “oak tree,” symbolizing strength and endurance).
Jordan (The sacred river, a name that feels both powerful and serene).
Juniper (A hardy tree that provided shelter for the prophet Elijah; for a resilient and protective dog).
Olive (A symbol of peace, prosperity, and light; a lovely name for a gentle dog).
Oren (A Hebrew name meaning “pine” or “ash tree”).
Phoebe (A New Testament name meaning “bright” or “radiant,” also a type of bird).
River (While not exclusively biblical, rivers like the Jordan and Tigris are central to the biblical landscape).
Sharon (The Plain of Sharon was known for its fertility and beautiful flowers).
Tamar (A Hebrew name meaning “palm tree,” a symbol of grace and elegance).
Zion (A name for the holy mountain in Jerusalem, symbolizing a fortress and a spiritual home).

Names of Loyal Companions and Friends

There is a quiet understanding that passes between a person and their dog, a language spoken not in words, but in shared presence and unwavering loyalty. This is the essence of true companionship, a bond that feels as old as the stories we’ve told ourselves since the beginning of time. These biblical names are for the dogs who are our shadows, our confidants, our steadfast friends. They reflect the kind of devotion that Jonathan had for David or that Ruth had for Naomi, a promise to stay by our side, no matter what storms may come. In their quiet, constant presence, these dogs remind us of what it means to be a true friend, reflecting a faithfulness that feels both grounding and divine.

A dog’s friendship is a simple, powerful force in a complicated world. It asks for nothing but gives everything, a daily lesson in love and fidelity. When we choose a name that honors this bond, we celebrate the dog’s role as more than just a pet, but as a core member of our spiritual and emotional lives. A name like Jonathan or Ruth becomes a daily reminder of the sacred pact we share with them. It’s a recognition of the profound, unspoken connection that makes a dog the most loyal friend a person can have, a furry soul who mirrors the best parts of our own humanity back to us.

Jonathan (A symbol of loyal friendship, like David’s devoted friend)
Ruth (Represents unwavering loyalty and devotion)
Caleb (Known for his loyalty and faith alongside Joshua)
Silas (A faithful companion to the Apostle Paul)
Barnabas (Means “son of encouragement,” a true friend’s quality)
Dodi (A Hebrew name meaning “beloved”)

Names of Great Prophets and Sages

Some dogs possess an old soul, a contemplative spirit that seems to hold the wisdom of the ages in their calm, knowing gaze. They move through the world with a noble grace, their presence a quiet sermon on patience and understanding. For these thoughtful companions, a name drawn from the great prophets and sages of the Bible feels perfectly fitting. These are names like Elijah, Isaiah, or Daniel—names that carry the weight of divine messages and profound insight. They are for the dogs who seem to listen not just to our words, but to the feelings behind them, offering a silent, steady comfort that feels like ancient wisdom.

A dog with a prophet’s name carries an air of dignity and purpose. They might be the dog who watches the sunset with you in quiet contemplation or the one who seems to understand your sorrows without a single word being spoken. These names aren’t just about sounding grand; they’re about honoring the serene and noble nature of a dog who brings a sense of peace and thoughtful presence into your home. A dog named Solomon or Isaiah is more than a pet; he is a furry philosopher, a four-legged sage whose silent companionship speaks volumes.

Elijah (A powerful prophet who went to heaven in a chariot of fire)
Isaiah (A prophet whose name means “salvation of the Lord”)
Jeremiah (Known as the “weeping prophet,” representing deep feeling)
Daniel (A wise prophet known for his integrity and faith in the lion’s den)
Solomon (A king renowned for his incredible wisdom)
Ezekiel (A prophet of hope whose name means “God strengthens”)
Jonah (A prophet whose story teaches of transformation and mercy)
Moses (The great prophet and leader who guided his people)

Names of Strong Warriors and Kings

In the heart of many dogs beats the spirit of a fearless warrior, a natural-born leader whose courage is as boundless as their love. These are the dogs who stand as brave protectors of their home and family, whose confident posture and steady bark ward off any perceived threat. For such a noble animal, a name that echoes the strength of biblical kings and warriors is a powerful tribute. Names like David, the shepherd boy who became a mighty king, or Samson, the warrior of legendary strength, capture this spirit of fearless leadership and unwavering bravery. These names are for the dog who is not just a companion, but a guardian.

To name a dog Joshua or Gideon is to acknowledge their innate strength and protective instincts. It’s a recognition of the commanding presence they have, whether they are a large breed standing guard or a small one with the heart of a lion. These names carry a royal and valiant legacy, fitting for a dog who rules your heart and home with a benevolent and protective grace. They are a celebration of the dog’s inner strength, a nod to the powerful, untamed spirit that makes them such a commanding and reassuring presence in our lives.

David (The shepherd who defeated Goliath and became a beloved king)
Samson (A mighty warrior whose strength was legendary)
Joshua (A great military leader who led the Israelites into the Promised Land)
Gideon (A reluctant but powerful warrior who led a small army to victory)
Cyrus (A king who freed the Jewish people)
Asher (A name meaning “happy” or “blessed,” but also a strong tribal name)
Barak (A military commander who fought alongside the prophetess Deborah)

Amish Dog Names

Names of Guardian Angels

There are dogs who seem to have a celestial quality, a gentle and comforting presence that makes you feel watched over and protected. They are our silent guardians, our furry angels on earth, whose intuitive nature allows them to offer comfort exactly when we need it most. For these ethereal companions, a name inspired by angels feels divinely appropriate. Names like Gabriel, the divine messenger, or Raphael, the angel of healing, beautifully capture the purity and grace of these special dogs who seem to be messengers of love and peace in our lives.

Choosing an angelic name for a dog is a way of honoring their role as a source of light and goodness. These names are light and airy, yet they hold a deep spiritual significance, perfect for a dog who has a healing and calming effect on your soul. A dog named Seraphina or Uriel is more than just a pet; they are a constant, comforting presence, a reminder of the unseen forces of good in the world. They are our personal guardians, wrapped in fur, whose love feels like a little piece of heaven.

Gabriel (The archangel known as God’s messenger)
Michael (The archangel who is a powerful spiritual protector)
Raphael (The archangel associated with healing and guidance)
Uriel (An archangel known for bringing divine wisdom and light)
Angel (A direct and beautiful name for a heavenly messenger)
Seraphina (A feminine name inspired by the seraphim, the highest order of angels)

Names Related to Nature in the Bible

The Bible is rich with imagery drawn from the natural world, a reminder of the deep spiritual connection between creation and the creator. Trees, plants, and rivers are often used as symbols of peace, life, and resilience. For the dog who loves to wander through fields, rest under a shady tree, or simply brings a sense of organic, natural peace into your home, a name from this part of scripture can be perfect. Names like Olive, a symbol of peace, or Jordan, a river of great significance, connect your dog to the grounding, life-affirming power of the earth.

These names are a beautiful way to celebrate the simple, earthy joy that dogs bring into our lives. They remind us that our connection to our pets is part of a larger web of life, a sacred bond that ties all living things together. A dog named Willow or Rose carries a name that is both beautiful and deeply rooted in the timeless landscapes of the Bible. It’s a tribute to the dog’s pure and natural spirit, a soul as essential and life-giving as the earth itself.

Olive (A tree and fruit symbolizing peace and unity)
Jordan (The river where many significant biblical events occurred)
Zion (A name for Jerusalem, symbolizing a place of God’s presence)
Eden (The garden of paradise, meaning “delight”)
Cana (The village where Jesus performed his first miracle)
Sharon (The Plain of Sharon was known for its beauty and flowers, like the Rose of Sharon)
Carmel (A mountain range in Israel, its name means “garden”)

Names from the New Testament

The New Testament is a story of hope, redemption, and a new beginning, centered around figures who embodied compassion, faith, and love. These names are perfect for a dog who has brought a new chapter of joy and light into your life, especially a rescue who has been given a second chance. Names like Peter, the rock; John, the beloved disciple; or Mary, a symbol of devotion, carry a spirit of gentle strength and profound love. They reflect the teachings of forgiveness and grace, qualities that our dogs often model for us every day.

Giving a dog a name from the New Testament is a way to celebrate the transformative power of love and companionship. These names are imbued with a sense of hope and renewal, perfect for a companion who has healed a part of your heart you didn’t know was broken. A dog named Luke (a healer) or Matthew (a gift from God) becomes a living symbol of the good news in your own life. Their presence is a daily reminder of grace, forgiveness, and the simple, powerful joy of a fresh start.

Peter (A leading apostle, his name means “rock”)
John (One of Jesus’s closest disciples, symbolizing love)
Luke (A companion of Paul and author of a Gospel, associated with healing)
Paul (Apostle who was a key figure in spreading Christianity)
Matthew (A disciple and author of a Gospel, his name means “gift of God”)
Mary (A name of deep devotion, borne by several key women in the New Testament)
Titus (A trusted companion of Paul known for his good works)
Phoebe (A respected woman and deaconess in the early church)

Simple and Resonant Names from the Old Testament

Sometimes the most powerful names are the simplest. The Old Testament is filled with short, strong, resonant names that are easy to call out at the dog park but are still rooted in deep history and meaning. These are the names of patriarchs, leaders, and foundational figures whose stories form the bedrock of Judeo-Christian heritage. Names like Adam, the first man; Noah, the ark-builder; or Abel, the faithful son, are timeless and direct, carrying a sense of strength and significance without being overly complex.

These names have an earthy, grounded quality that suits the honest and straightforward nature of a dog. A dog named Seth, Eli, or Boaz has a name that feels both classic and sturdy, a name you can say with affection and authority. They are perfect for a dog who is a fundamental, essential part of your family. These simple yet profound names are a tribute to the enduring power of faith and family, perfectly mirroring the enduring and foundational role a beloved dog plays in our lives.

Adam (The first man created by God)
Noah (The righteous man who built the ark to survive the great flood)
Seth (The third son of Adam and Eve)
Abel (The second son of Adam and Eve, known for his faith)
Eli (A high priest and judge who mentored Samuel)
Boaz (A noble and kind man who married Ruth)
Levi (Son of Jacob, founder of the tribe of Levi)
Ezra (A prophet and scribe who helped lead his people back to faith)

Biblical Dog Names: A Story in Every Syllable