Our best autumn-inspired dog names (plus tips for choosing the perfect name)

16 September 2025 - 3 min read
An image of a brown-and-white Jack Russell on their back surrounded by brown and orange autumn leaves

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As the leaves turn brown and the air becomes crisp, autumn really brings something magical in the air. And what better time to welcome a new furry friend into your life? In honour of the season, why not give your pup a name inspired by autumn?

This list is packed with autumnal names for dogs to inspire you, whether you’re naming a puppy, adopting a rescue, or just daydreaming about owning one and their possible names (we’ve all been there).

Top autumn dog names

Jack Russell sat down looking at the camera surrounded by multi-coloured autumnal leaves

Our favourite autumn names sum up the warm, comfy elements of the season. Our top autumn names for dogs are:

  • Autumn

  • Bear

  • Cinnamon

  • Ginger

  • Hazel

  • Maple

  • Willow

Names inspired by nature

A West Highland Terrier walks through an autumnal woodland

Nature can inspire art, literature, and science and, in this case, even dog names! Get inspiration from the autumn pet names below:

  • Ash

  • Aspen

  • Cedar

  • Oakley

  • Rowan

  • Willow

Autumn boy dog names

A pet parent holds a ball while their well-behaved Border Collie waits

Looking for a perfect autumn-inspired name for your male pup? Look no further - here are some warm, rustic, and rugged names:

  • Barley

  • Buddy

  • Copper

  • Forrest

  • Russet

  • Rusty

Autumn-themed female dog names

A Burmese Mountain Dog runs through a green park on a sunny day in autumn

Here are some soft, heart-warming, and cosy seasonal names for your female dog:

  • Amber

  • Briar

  • Fawn

  • Saffron

  • Sage

  • Sienna

Spooky and festive names

A Border Collie holds an empty pumpkin treat bag in their mouth as they sit on a garden path looking into the camera

Halloween is the perfect time of year to get creative, and it’s the cultural highlight of autumn, so why not try out a spooky dog name?

  • Casper

  • Frankie (short for Frankenstein)

  • Jinx

  • Pumpkin

  • Spirit

  • Toffee

  • Winnie

Names inspired by autumn colours

A woman walks with her Labrador through a park, it's autumn and the trees are changing colour

Autumn conjures up thoughts of warm, rich hues, falling leaves, and cosy evenings by an open fire. Perfect inspiration for dog names like:

  • Amber

  • Chestnut

  • Cocoa

  • Honey

  • Tawny

  • Walnut

How to pick the right name for your pup

A Corgi lays on some small pumpkins in a field

Naming your dog is a big decision. Here are a few tricks and tips to help you choose the perfect name:

Choose a name with hard consonants

Autumnal dog names like Pumpkin, Copper and Casper include consonant sounds like ‘K’ and ‘P’ - names like this can help with your dog’s recall. When picking a name for your furry friend, choose one with crisp and punchy sounds to make it easier for them to recognise and respond to.

Avoid names that sound like commands

Some names can sound like common commands. For example, ‘Bo’ sounds too much like ‘no’ and ‘Kit’ is too similar to ‘sit’.

Keeping it short and simple

To improve communication and training, choose a name that’s short and punchy, ideally one or two syllables. Names like Ash and Jinx are great examples. Short names are easier for your dog to recognise and distinguish from background noise and commands.

Introducing the name to a new puppy or rescue dog

Say your dog’s name often, whether it’s feed time, playtime or cuddles. Most importantly, don’t hold back with positive reinforcement! Use praise, treats and a cheerful tone so they can associate their name with good things.

Final thoughts

Whether you go for Willow, Oakley, Chestnut or Hazel, the most important thing is that the name feels right for you and suits your dog’s unique personality.

At the end of the day, you know your pup best, so have fun with the naming process and choose a name that you’ll both love for years to come!

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Lucy McNiven
Business Management and Marketing student

Lucy is a full-time student at the University of the West of England, studying Business Management and Marketing. Having explored Southeast Asia extensively, she is an experienced traveller and hopes to visit Australia in the near future. Outside of university, she can be found spending time with friends or going on a long walk, especially if there's a slice of cake waiting for her at the end!