Labrador Retrievers are one of the most beloved dog breeds in the U.S.—and for good reason. They’re friendly, smart, loyal, and always ready to join in on an adventure or cuddle on the couch. But before you start teaching your new pup to sit or fetch, there’s one very important decision to make: choosing the perfect name.
Your dog’s name is more than just a label. It’s how you connect, communicate, and bond with your furry best friend. The right name reflects your Lab’s personality, makes training easier, and just feels right every time you say it.
In this article, we’ve put together the ultimate list of Labrador Retriever names—sorted by gender, color, personality, and even pop culture inspiration. Whether you’re looking for something classic, cute, unique, or just plain fun, you’ll find tons of ideas to help you pick the perfect name for your Lab.
Ready to find the name that fits your Labrador like a glove? Let’s dive in!
How to Choose the Perfect Name for Your Labrador Retriever
Choosing a name for your Labrador isn’t something to rush. This name will stick with your dog for life—and you’ll be saying it a lot. From calling your pup at the dog park to teaching commands at home, the right name makes a big difference. Here are a few things to keep in mind when picking the perfect name for your Lab:
Consider Your Labrador’s Personality
Is your Lab goofy and playful? Calm and gentle? Brave and confident? Try choosing a name that matches their unique personality. For example:
- Buddy – for a loyal, easygoing friend
- Scout – great for an adventurous spirit
- Joy – perfect for a Lab who’s always wagging their tail
A name that fits your dog’s vibe just feels right—and makes them stand out from the crowd.
Think About Appearance and Color
Labradors come in three main colors: yellow, chocolate, and black. Their coat can be a great source of inspiration for names:
- Yellow Labs: Sunny, Honey, Goldie
- Chocolate Labs: Mocha, Cocoa, Truffle
- Black Labs: Shadow, Jet, Onyx
These names not only highlight their beautiful coats but also give you fun, visual connections to their look.
Keep It Short and Simple
Dogs respond best to names that are one or two syllables. Short names are easier to say, especially during training or emergencies. Think Max, Luna, Bella, or Rocky. Try to avoid names that are too long or complex—they might confuse your dog.
Try Saying It Out Loud
Before you commit to a name, say it a few times out loud. Does it roll off the tongue? Is it easy to shout across the yard? Will it sound weird or embarrassing at the vet’s office? If it feels natural and sounds good, you’re probably on the right track.
Also, make sure it doesn’t sound too similar to common commands like “sit,” “stay,” or “no.”
Top Male Labrador Retriever Names
When it comes to naming a male Labrador, you want something that fits his strength, charm, and easygoing personality. Male Labs are often playful, loving, and incredibly loyal—so the name should reflect those awesome traits. Whether you’re going for something classic, cool, or full of character, here are some of the best male Labrador names to consider:
Classic & Timeless
These names never go out of style. They’re easy to say and full of charm:
- Max – short, strong, and super popular
- Charlie – friendly and fun, perfect for a sweet-natured pup
- Buddy – ideal for your best friend
- Jack – simple and confident
- Jake – rugged and loyal
Strong & Masculine
If your Lab has a bold presence, these names carry power:
- Rex – has a tough, kingly feel
- Bear – great for a big, cuddly guy
- Tank – perfect for a strong and solid dog
- Hunter – for an active, outdoorsy Lab
- Diesel – cool and powerful
Adventurous & Outdoorsy
Labradors love to explore. These names are made for nature-loving pups:
- Scout – curious and brave
- River – calm yet wild
- Ranger – fits a protector and trail buddy
- Moose – quirky and rugged
- Canyon – deep and strong
Cute & Playful
Got a silly, happy-go-lucky Lab? These names are full of fun:
- Benny – light and friendly
- Finn – short and cheerful
- Toby – sweet and reliable
- Milo – a fan favorite
- Ollie – lovable and full of energy
Unique & Uncommon
Want your Lab to stand out at the dog park? Try one of these less typical names:
- Zeek – short and zippy
- Atlas – strong and worldy
- Jett – sleek and cool (great for a black Lab!)
- Winston – classy and clever
- Knox – bold and stylish
Modern & Trendy
These names are stylish, fresh, and perfect for today’s pups:
- Leo – short, strong, and full of charm
- Archie – playful and upbeat
- Maverick – bold and independent
- Theo – sweet and sophisticated
- Ziggy – quirky and full of personality
Choosing a male Lab name is a personal thing, but if it feels right, sounds good, and matches your dog’s vibe—you’ve nailed it.
Top Female Labrador Retriever Names (30+ Options)
Female Labradors are known for their sweet, loyal nature and playful energy. They’re strong yet gentle, smart yet goofy—and they deserve a name that captures all of that! Whether your girl is sassy, snuggly, or a total tomboy, there’s a perfect name on this list for her. Here are 30 top name ideas for female Labs:
Sweet & Classic
These timeless names are always in style and work beautifully for gentle, loving pups:
- Bella – means “beautiful,” and it really is
- Lucy – playful and sweet
- Daisy – cheerful and full of charm
- Sadie – old-fashioned in the best way
- Molly – warm, friendly, and fun
Strong & Elegant
For Labs with confidence and grace, these names carry a touch of elegance:
- Luna – magical and trendy
- Stella – a star in every way
- Ruby – bold and beautiful
- Chloe – stylish and smart
- Zara – short, chic, and full of spark
Nature-Inspired
Perfect for outdoor-loving girls who feel right at home in the wild:
- Willow – soft and graceful
- River – peaceful and strong
- Autumn – earthy and warm
- Skye – open and free
- Ivy – delicate, yet persistent
Cute & Cuddly
If your Lab is a total sweetheart (or still a squishy little pup), these adorable names are great picks:
- Honey – sweet as can be
- Peaches – playful and soft
- Muffin – small, warm, and full of love
- Trixie – full of mischief
- Lulu – fun, bouncy, and lovable
Unique & Sassy
Looking for something with a little more flair? These names are fun, bold, and sure to stand out:
- Nala – lion-hearted and fierce
- Cleo – for a queen
- Juniper – playful and fresh
- Indie – cool and creative
- Freya – mythological and majestic
Trendy & Modern
Stylish names that are rising in popularity and perfect for today’s pups:
- Nova – bright and bold
- Piper – energetic and spunky
- Zoe – vibrant and joyful
- Ellie – soft, friendly, and popular
- Harper – strong and feminine
Unique Labrador Names That Stand Out
Looking for something a little different? If you’re the kind of dog owner who wants your Lab to turn heads at the dog park, then a unique name is the way to go. These names aren’t as common as Max or Bella, but they’re full of personality—and perfect for Labs with a one-of-a-kind spirit.
Whether you’re inspired by mythology, travel, vintage charm, or just want something no one else is using, here’s a list of original name ideas that will help your pup stand out from the pack.
Inspired by Nature & the Elements
These names feel earthy, fresh, and full of life—just like your adventurous Labrador:
- Zephyr – a soft breeze (perfect for a calm pup)
- Ash – short, cool, and a little edgy
- Ocean – deep and free-spirited
- Sage – peaceful and wise
- Ember – fiery and bold
From Mythology & Legend
For Labs that feel larger than life, these legendary names bring a touch of magic:
- Apollo – strong and radiant
- Athena – wise and brave
- Odin – powerful and mysterious
- Loki – mischievous and clever
- Freya – fierce and beautiful
Vintage Vibes
Old-school names that feel fresh again—perfect for classy or quirky Labs:
- Mabel – sweet and charming
- Otis – warm and soulful
- Hazel – earthy and nostalgic
- Walter – gentle and loyal
- Birdie – light, fun, and full of energy
Inspired by Places
Names that carry a sense of adventure and wanderlust—great for Labs who love the outdoors:
- Dakota – strong and rustic
- Aspen – clean and crisp, like a winter day
- Havana – warm and colorful
- Rio – lively and fun
- Siena – elegant and earthy
Fun & Playful
These names are full of energy and totally original—great for Labs with tons of personality:
- Ziggy – quirky and cool
- Banjo – perfect for a musical soul
- Noodle – goofy and lovable
- Cricket – small but full of bounce
- Bixby – unique and memorable
Choosing a unique name can be a great way to highlight what makes your Lab special. Just make sure it’s easy to pronounce and something you’ll still love saying years from now!
Names Based on Labrador Color (Yellow, Chocolate, Black)
Your Lab’s coat color can be a fun and easy source of inspiration when picking the perfect name. Whether your pup is a sunny yellow, deep chocolate, or sleek black, their coloring gives you a theme to play with.
Let’s look at some great name ideas based on your Labrador’s coat.
Yellow Labrador Names
Yellow Labs have warm, golden coats and bright personalities. They often look like they’re smiling all the time. These names reflect their sunny appearance and happy energy:
- Sunny – a cheerful and obvious choice
- Goldie – classic and cute
- Buttercup – soft and sweet
- Blondie – playful and light-hearted
- Maple – for warm autumn tones
Yellow Labs are known for being friendly and outgoing, so fun, feel-good names usually fit them best. You can also pull inspiration from food—think Honey or Banana—if you want to get a little creative.
Chocolate Labrador Names
Chocolate Labs have rich, deep brown coats that are super eye-catching. They’re known for being affectionate, goofy, and full of love. These name ideas match that chocolatey goodness:
- Mocha – perfect for a sweet, brown pup
- Cocoa – cozy and lovable
- Brownie – great for a little chunk of joy
- Hazel – soft, warm, and gentle
- Truffle – rich and a bit fancy
Chocolate Lab names often sound warm and comforting, just like their personalities. Think desserts, coffee, nuts—anything cozy and brown-toned can work great here.
Black Labrador Names
Black Labs are sleek, strong, and incredibly loyal. They often look like shadows moving gracefully across a field. These names reflect their cool, mysterious style:
- Shadow – obvious, but still awesome
- Onyx – bold and beautiful
- Jet – sharp and fast
- Raven – dark and elegant
- Storm – full of power and presence
Names for black Labs tend to sound strong, smooth, or even a little dramatic. If you want something with more attitude, go with names like Knight, Midnight, or Diesel.
No matter what color your Lab is, their coat can help inspire a name that feels totally “them.” Look at their fur, their eyes, and their energy—and let that guide your choice.
Cute and Funny Labrador Names
Sometimes, the best name is the one that makes people smile. Labradors are naturally goofy, loving, and full of joy—so why not give them a name that shows off their fun side? Whether your pup is a total goofball or just melts your heart with their big eyes and wagging tail, a cute or funny name might be the perfect match.
Let’s explore some light-hearted name ideas that are as lovable as your Lab.
Adorably Cute Names
These names are short, sweet, and totally heart-melting. Perfect for Labs who are gentle, cuddly, or still look like a baby—no matter how big they get.
- Bubbles – soft, silly, and fun to say
- Snickers – sweet and giggly
- Teddy – your big, fluffy snuggle buddy
- Waffles – cozy and lovable
- Boo – short, cute, and full of charm
Cute names are great if you love calling your dog something that sounds more like a nickname. They make people smile and create an instant warm vibe.
Funny and Playful Names
Got a Lab with a goofy streak? These names are full of character. They’ll make strangers laugh—and your dog definitely won’t mind the attention.
- Sir Barks-a-Lot – for the chatty type
- Chewbacca (Chewie) – ideal for a big, fluffy goofball
- Nugget – tiny name for a big dog = comedy gold
- Wiggles – for the pup who never stops wagging
- Pickles – random, silly, and oddly perfect
Funny names are great for laid-back owners who don’t take themselves too seriously. They also make for great conversations when you’re out and about with your dog.
Pop Culture-Inspired Names
Love movies, music, or TV? These names have a fun twist and a bit of pop culture flair.
- Scooby – a classic for any goofy dog
- Yoda – wise, calm, and just a little weird
- Elsa – great for a graceful, icy blonde Lab
- Frodo – small name, big adventure
- Toto – because your Lab is your adventure buddy
Pop culture names give your dog a bit of personality right from the start. Plus, other fans will instantly get the reference—and probably smile.
Naming your Lab something cute or funny doesn’t just make people laugh—it creates joy in everyday moments. So if a playful name feels right, go for it. Your dog will love it as long as you say it with love (and treats).
Human Names That Work Great for Labradors
Sometimes, the best dog names are just… people names. And honestly? It totally works. Labradors have big personalities, and many of them feel more like a best friend or family member than “just a pet.” Giving your Lab a human name can feel natural—like naming a roommate who happens to love belly rubs and chewing shoes. Whether you’re looking for something classy, funny, or just familiar. Here are some great human names that sound perfect for Labs.
Classic Male Human Names
These names are simple, friendly, and full of charm. Perfect for Labs with a loyal, down-to-earth vibe.
- Sam – sweet, strong, and timeless
- Benji – playful and lovable
- Jake – solid and dependable
- Charlie – fun and easygoing
- George – old-school in the best way
Names like these work especially well because they roll off the tongue and just fit a Labrador’s friendly nature.
Classic Female Human Names
If your girl Lab has grace and personality, these names will suit her perfectly:
- Maggie – cheerful and warm
- Lily – soft and sweet
- Sophie – smart and elegant
- Annie – kind-hearted and classic
- Emma – simple and full of charm
These names feel cozy, familiar, and just right for a dog who’s always by your side.
Trendy & Modern Human Names
Want something a little more current? These names are super popular with people—and work just as well for Labs.
- Milo – friendly and fun
- Ellie – bright and lovable
- Leo – confident and cool
- Zoe – energetic and playful
- Max – strong and classic
They sound natural when you call them out at the park, and they suit Labs who are outgoing and full of life.
Funny or Unexpected Human Names
Sometimes it’s the contrast that makes a name great. Giving a silly, goofy Lab a serious or formal human name can be hilarious—and surprisingly fitting.
- Walter – sounds fancy, looks like a goofball
- Beatrice – perfect for a very proper-looking girl
- Gary – random, but weirdly perfect
- Debbie – unexpected and funny on a wagging pup
- Carl – great for a big, lazy Lab
These names are perfect if you love giving people a chuckle when they ask, “Wait… your dog’s name is Carl?”
Using a human name for your Lab makes them feel even more like a true member of the family. Just pick something that feels right, makes you smile, and fits their vibe. After all, your Lab won’t care what you call them—as long as it comes with treats and love.
Final Tips for Naming Your Labrador Retriever
Choosing the right name for your Labrador is exciting—but it’s also a decision you’ll be living with for years. A good name is more than just cute; it should be practical, easy to use, and feel right for your dog’s personality. Here are a few important tips to keep in mind before you make it official.
Don’t Change the Name After Your Dog Has Learned It
Once your Lab knows their name, stick with it. Dogs learn their names through repetition, and changing it later can confuse them. If you really want to switch it up, try using a nickname or a variation that sounds similar.
For example, if your dog knows the name “Charlie,” but you want something new, calling them “Char” or “Chaz” might work without losing that recognition.
Avoid Names That Sound Like Commands
Names that sound too much like common training words can make life harder—for both you and your dog. For example:
- “Kit” might sound like “Sit”
- “Bo” might be too close to “No”
- “Ray” could get confused with “Stay”
Try calling the name out loud a few times. If it could be mistaken for a command, it’s probably best to choose something else. Clear communication = better training and fewer headaches.
Make Sure the Name Isn’t Offensive or Awkward in Public
It might sound funny at home, but ask yourself: would you feel okay yelling this name at a crowded dog park? Names that sound rude, inappropriate, or overly silly could lead to uncomfortable situations—or give the wrong impression. And while your Lab might not care, other people definitely will. Also, check the name in different languages or cultures if you’re choosing something unique. What sounds cool in one context might be offensive or awkward in another.
Bonus Tip: Say It Out Loud—A Lot
Before you commit, try saying the name several times out loud. Imagine calling it at the vet, at the park, and in your living room. If it still feels right after all that, you’ve probably found a winner. Naming your Labrador is the first step in building your bond. Make it meaningful, fun, and something you’ll enjoy saying every single day. Your Lab won’t care if it’s trendy or cool—they’ll just love hearing it from you.
