There is a quiet understanding in the eyes of a Labrador Retriever. A deep and knowing presence. When you bring a Labrador puppy into your home, you are not just getting a dog. You are weaving a new soul into the fabric of your life. This story begins with a name. A word that will become the sound of home. Of safety. Of love. It is the first promise you make to your loyal companion.
And a unique male dog name or a gentle female Labrador name carries weight. It carries history. The story of the Labrador breed is not one of manicured lawns. It is a saga of ice, water, and work. Their origins lie in the cold, rugged waters of Newfoundland. A different world. A harder time. They were not called Labradors then. They were the St. John’s water dog, indispensable partners to fishermen. These working dogs leaped into frigid seas to retrieve nets and fish, their thick double coats and otter tails built for survival in the harsh Atlantic.
In the 1800s, English aristocrats like the Earl of Malmesbury saw their potential as gun dogs and retrievers. He wrote of his “Labrador Dogs,” a name that stuck and honored their Canadian roots. Whether you have a Black Lab, a Yellow Lab, or a Chocolate Labrador, their history matters. When you choose a hunting dog name or a popular family dog name, you are speaking to this legacy. You are naming a dog with a soul full of cold water and an unwavering, gentle temperament. The perfect name for your Lab is not just a tag. It is an anchor to their deep and noble past.
Separate selections of names for your Labrador:
Top 150 Popular Labrador Retriever Names
- Ace — “First rate” or “Expert.” A classic name for a top-performing dog.
- Abby — “Father’s joy.” A sweet, gentle classic for female Labs.
- Apollo — Greek god of sun and light. Fits a bright, energetic personality.
- Archie — “Truly brave.” A trendy name with royal associations.
- Aspen — A nature-inspired name (tree or ski resort), great for white or yellow Labs.
- Atlas — A Titan who held up the sky. Implies strength and endurance.
- Ava — “Life.” Short, punchy, and elegant.
- Axel — “Father of peace.” Strong and modern.
- Bailey — “Steward.” One of the most enduring names for Labradors, often associated with the cream liqueur (yellow Labs).
- Bandit — For the mischievous pup who steals hearts (and socks).
- Barney — “Strong as a bear.” Perfect for a big, friendly cuddler.
- Baxter — Old English for “Baker.” Sounds cheerful and friendly.
- Bear — A top choice for large black or chocolate Labs due to their size and coat.
- Beau — “Handsome” (French). For a dapper male dog.
- Bella — “Beautiful.” The #1 female dog name worldwide for many years.
- Belle — “Beauty.” A Southern-belle style classic.
- Benji — “Son of the right hand.” Immortalized by the famous movie dog.
- Bentley — “Meadow with bent grass.” Also associated with luxury cars.
- Bingo — playful name implying luck and victory.
- Blaze — “Flame.” For a fast, high-energy retriever.
- Blue — A cool name, often ironic for black Labs or linked to “Blue” from pop culture.
- Bo — “To live.” Short, commanding, and presidential.
- Bodhi — “Enlightenment” (Sanskrit). For a calm, wise soul.
- Bonnie — “Pretty” or “Charming” (Scottish).
- Boomer — “Large and loud.” Fits a vocal, boisterous personality.
- Brady — “Spirited” (Irish). A sporty, energetic name.
- Brody — “Ditch” or “Muddy place.” Surprisingly fitting for a mud-loving Lab.
- Brownie — A sweet classic for Chocolate Labradors.
- Bruno — “Brown” (German). Strong, substantial, and perfect for Chocolate Labs.
- Brutus — “Heavy” or “Muscular.” For a tough-looking softie.
- Buddy — “Friend.” The quintessential name for a loyal family dog.
- Buster — “Tough guy.” A retro name for a playful, active dog.
- Callie — “Most beautiful.” A light, happy name for a girl.
- Casey — “Vigilant” (Irish). Good for a watchful companion.
- Cash — Tribute to Johnny Cash. Cool and rugged.
- Champ — “Champion.” For a winner in the field or ring.
- Chance — “Luck.” Often given to rescue dogs (a second chance).
- Charlie — “Free man.” Consistently a top 3 name for male dogs globally.
- Chase — “Huntsman.” Ideally suited for a retrieving breed.
- Chester — “Fortress.” A cozy, old-fashioned name.
- Chloe — “Blooming.” Sophisticated and popular.
- Cleo — Short for Cleopatra. Regal and dignified.
- Coco — The reigning favorite for Chocolate Labs (fashion or food inspired).
- Cody — “Helpful.” Fits the service-dog nature of the breed.
- Cole — “Charcoal.” A clever, subtle name for Black Labs.
- Cooper — “Barrel maker.” Friendly, upbeat, and hugely popular in the US.
- Copper — “Reddish metal.” Great for Fox Red or dark Yellow Labs.
- Daisy — “Day’s eye” (flower). A sunny, happy name for Yellow Labs.
- Dakota — “Friend” or “Ally” (Sioux). Culturally fitting for a loyal dog.
- Dash — “Speed.” For the quickest dog in the park.
- Dexter — “Right-handed” or “Skilled.” Smart and agile.
- Diesel — Implies power and energy.
- Dixie — “Tenth.” A sweet name with Southern US charm.
- Dolly — “Gift of God.” Cute and affectionate.
- Duke — “Leader.” Noble title for a stately male Lab.
- Echo — From mythology (nymph). Mystical and unique.
- Eli — “Ascended.” Simple, biblical, and strong.
- Ella — “Fairy maiden.” Elegant and feminine.
- Ellie — “Light.” Friendly and very popular.
- Ember — “Spark.” Beautiful for dark red or black coats.
- Emma — “Universal.” A human name that fits dogs perfectly.
- Enzo — “Home ruler” (Italian). Sporty (Ferrari) and cool.
- Felix — “Lucky” or “Successful.”
- Finn — “Fair” (Irish). Heroic and adventurous.
- Frankie — “Free one.” Spunky and unisex.
- George — “Farmer.” A solid, gentlemanly name for a calm dog.
- Ginger — Spice-inspired. Classic for Yellow/Red Labs.
- Goldie — “Made of gold.” The obvious choice for Yellow Labs.
- Grace — “Elegance.” For a well-mannered lady.
- Gunnar — “Battle warrior” (Norse). Strong and tough.
- Gus — Short for Augustus. Friendly, lovable, and unpretentious.
- Hank — “Home ruler.” Sounds sturdy and dependable.
- Harley — “Hare’s meadow.” Often linked to the motorcycle brand (rebel vibe).
- Harper — “Harp player.” Trendy and artistic.
- Hazel — “Hazelnut.” Lovely earthy name for Chocolate Labs.
- Heidi — “Noble.” Sweet and traditional.
- Henry — “Home ruler.” Distinguished and classic.
- Hershey — After the chocolate brand. A sweet favorite for brown dogs.
- Holly — Plant name, often used for Christmas puppies.
- Honey — Sweet substance. Perfectly describes a Yellow Lab’s color and temper.
- Hudson — “Son of Hugh” (river name). Trendy and adventurous.
- Hunter — “One who hunts.” Literal description of the breed’s job.
- Jack — “God is gracious.” Simple, strong, classic.
- Jackson — “Son of Jack.” A polished version of Jack.
- Jake — “Supplanter.” The “everyman” name for a good dog.
- Jasper — “Treasurer.” A gem of a name.
- Jax — Modern, edgy short form of Jackson.
- Jet — “Black gemstone” or “Speed.” Sleek name for Black Labs.
- Joey — “God will increase.” Playful and youthful.
- Juno — Roman queen of gods. Protective and strong.
- Koda — “Friend” (Native American). Similar meaning to Dakota.
- Kona — Hawaiian coffee region. Trendy for Chocolate Labs.
- Lady — “Noblewoman.” Refined and classic (Disney vibe).
- Layla — “Night” (Arabic). Beautiful for Black Labs.
- Leo — “Lion.” Brave and kingly.
- Lexi — “Defender.” Short, zesty version of Alexandra.
- Lola — “Sorrows” (Spanish), but used as a fun, sassy name.
- Louie — “Renowned warrior.” Sweet but noble.
- Lucky — “Fortunate.” A timeless dog name.
- Lucy — “Light.” Consistently a top favorite for female dogs.
- Luke — “Light giving.” Gentle and strong (Star Wars link).
- Luna — “Moon” (Latin). Massive trend, especially for Black Labs (night sky).
- Maddie — “Woman of Magdala.” Sweet and approachable.
- Maggie — “Pearl.” Friendly, country-style name.
- Marley — Tribute to Bob Marley or the famous book/movie Lab “Marley & Me.”
- Maverick — “Independent.” For a dog with a mind of his own (Top Gun).
- Max — “Greatest.” The reigning king of male dog names.
- Maya — “Illusion” or “Water.” Exotic and intelligent.
- Mia — “Mine.” Short and sweet.
- Mickey — “Who is like God?” (Disney icon). cheerful.
- Millie — “Gentle strength.” Vintage and cute.
- Milo — “Merciful” or “Soldier.” Very popular modern choice.
- Mocha — Coffee-chocolate drink. A staple for Chocolate Labs.
- Molly — “Star of the sea.” Traditional and lovable.
- Moose — Large animal. Funny for a huge, clumsy puppy.
- Murphy — “Sea warrior.” Irish roots, fits water-loving Labs perfectly.
- Nala — “Gift” or “Lioness.” Disney favorite for yellow females.
- Nova — “New” or “Star explosion.” Cosmic and energetic.
- Oakley — “Oak meadow.” Outdoorsy and sturdy.
- Olive — “Olive tree.” Symbol of peace.
- Oliver — “Elf warrior.” Sophisticated yet cute.
- Ollie — Diminutive of Oliver. Fun and bouncy.
- Onyx — Black gemstone. Strong name for Black Labs.
- Oscar — “Deer lover” or “Champion warrior.”
- Otis — “Wealthy.” Quirky and soulful.
- Parker — “Park keeper.” Unisex, nature-connected.
- Penny — “Copper coin.” Adorable for reddish-yellow Labs.
- Pepper — “Spice.” Spunky name, often for Black Labs.
- Piper — “Pipe player.” Energetic and musical.
- Poppy — Red flower. Bright and happy.
- Prince — Royal title. For a pampered pooch.
- Ranger — “Guardian of the forest.” Outdoor/adventure vibe.
- Raven — Large black bird. Gothic and cool for Black Labs.
- Remi (Remy) — “Oarsman.” Perfect for a water dog.
- Rex — “King.” The stereotypical tough dog name.
- Riley — “Valiant.” Cheerful unisex name.
- River — Nature name. Ideal for a breed that loves swimming.
- Rocky — “Rest.” Also the famous boxer. Tough and resilient.
- Rosie — “Rose.” Sweet and floral.
- Roxy — “Dawn.” Sassy and full of attitude.
- Ruby — Red gemstone. Great for Fox Red Labs.
- Rusty — “Redhead.” classic for reddish coats.
- Sadie — “Princess.” A sweet, very popular classic.
- Sam — “Told by God.” Reliable and friendly.
- Sandy — “Defender of men” (or sand color). Spot-on for Yellow Labs.
- Sasha — “Defender.” Exotic but familiar.
- Scout — “First explorer.” Great for an adventurous puppy.
- Shadow — “Shade.” Top pick for Black Labs who follow you everywhere.
- Simba — “Lion.” Regal name for a yellow male.
- Sky — Nature name. Open and free.
- Stella — “Star.” Vintage charm with a punch.
- Storm — Weather name. Powerful, often for Black Labs.
- Sunny — “Sunshine.” Cheerful name for a yellow dog.
- Tank — War machine. For a solid, muscular build.
- Teddy — “Wealthy guardian” (Teddy Bear). For a fluffy, huggable dog.
- Thor — God of thunder. Mighty and loud.
- Toby — “God is good.” Friendly and harmless.
- Tucker — “Fabric pleater.” A favorite for hunting dogs in the US.
- Willow — “Willow tree.” Graceful and pliant.
- Winston — “Joy stone.” Dignified (Churchill), great for a serious face.
- Zeus — King of gods. For the boss of the house.
- Ziggy — “Victorious protector.” Fun and electric (Bowie).
- Zoe (Zoey) — “Life.” Full of energy and joy.
Finding the Right Word: How to Choose Your Labrador’s Name
The puppy arrives. Your house is suddenly different. Smaller, somehow. More full. The first few days are a quiet study. You watch him sleep. The twitch of a paw. The soft puff of breath. You see how he greets the morning. With a clumsy tumble or a steady gaze. A name is hiding in these moments. It’s a feeling before it is a word. Choosing that word is a delicate thing. It’s an act of observation. An act of respect. It felt that way with every dog who has shared my life. The name reveals itself. You just have to be quiet enough to hear it.
I learned this years ago. A young dog came to the farm. Full of fear and uncertainty. I tried names on him. Powerful names. Simple names. Nothing fit. For days, he was just “the dog.” Then one morning, I saw him watching the sheep. Not with a predator’s eye. But with a quiet curiosity. A sense of purpose. The name “Gus” came to mind. It felt solid. Grounded. It was his name. The moment I said it, he looked at me. Really looked at me. And in that look, our journey began.
The Sound of Their Name
A name is a tool. It has to work. Dogs respond to clear, crisp sounds. One or two syllables are best. Think of names with hard consonants. “Max.” “Buddy.” “Lucy.” “Sadie.” They cut through the noise of the world. A dog can pick them out easily. Avoid names that sound like commands. “Kit” sounds too much like “Sit.” “Ray” can be confused with “Stay.” Simplicity is not a lack of imagination. It is a gift of clarity you give your dog. It’s the first lesson in your new shared language.
A Name to Grow Into
That tiny ball of fur will grow. Fast. The paws will get bigger. The body will become strong and sleek. A name that sounds cute for a puppy might feel wrong for a 70-pound adult. Think about the dog he will become. The loyal companion on long walks. The steady presence by the fire. A name like “Bear” or “Moose” might seem silly for a tiny pup. But it can fit the grown dog perfectly. A name is for a lifetime. Choose one that has room for him to grow.
Inspiration From Their Soul
Look at your dog. Really see him. What is his spirit? Is he a “Scout,” always exploring the world with his nose? A “Willow,” gentle and graceful? Maybe he’s a “Rocky,” solid and dependable. The best names come from the dog himself. Think about his history, too. A name like “Fisher,” “Cove,” or “Poole” honors the breed’s working past by the sea. A name is a small story. Let it tell the story of the dog sleeping at your feet. It is the most honest story there is. It’s the word that means you are seen. You are loved. You are home.
FAQ Labrador Retriever Names
Elena Maltipoo is a dog name researcher and pet content creator with a specialized focus on puppy naming, dog breeds, and companion dog care. She studies naming trends, breed history, and the emotional connection between people and their dogs to help owners choose meaningful, fitting names for their pets.
