Male Small Dog Names, by Janice Jones
Updated November 2025
Choosing the perfect name for your small male dog is crucial, as it sets the tone for bonding. Small dogs often have a big personality packed into a tiny body, and an appropriate name can highlight this contrast hilariously.
The perfect name could be inspired by their small stature, adorable nature, or even their personality traits. Here are over two hundred cute and unique names ideal for your pint-sized canine companion.
Do you have a small male dog that needs a name? Read on.
Yorkshire TerrierBaby Animals that Make Great Male Small Dog Names
Excellent Male Small Dog Names from Nature
Famous Duos in Movies, Cartoons, and Television
Male Small Dog Names: The Ultimate List
Russian TerrierThese are just a few examples, and there are many more animals with different names for their young. However, it's important to note that not all animals have specific names for their young, and in many cases, the name remains the same regardless of the gender, is you have a female dog, feel free to consider these names too.
Chihuahua
Biewer TerrierFrench:
1. Baby - Bébé
German:
1. Baby - Baby
2. Child - Kind
Spanish:
1. Baby - Bebé
2. Male Child - Niño
Italian:
1. Baby, Child (Male - Bambino)
Shih Tzu PuppyThese duos have entertained audiences with their dynamic relationships and often showcase the mentor-student or older-younger sibling bond. The other iconic way these duos are shown is by size, such as an over-sized cat and a tiny mouse.
Toy Poodle PuppyThis first list of names come from the dichotomy that we all experience as small dog owners. Our tiny dogs have no idea how small they are and think they are much larger than life itself.
Small DogsA-Z Animals: Baby Animal Names
Collider: Iconic Animation Duos
Some of the most popular names for small male dogs are Max, Teddy, Milo, Buddy, and Charlie. These short, easy-to-say names fit their playful and affectionate personalities.
Pick a name that matches your dog’s personality or appearance. Try saying it out loud — if it’s easy to call and your pup responds quickly, it’s a good fit. You can also draw inspiration from size-based names like Peanut or Pip.
Yes, shorter names with one or two syllables are easier for dogs to recognize. If you love a longer name, shorten it to a nickname such as “Theodore” → “Theo” or “Buddy Boy” → “Buddy.”
Absolutely! Giving your tiny dog a strong name like Tank, Thor, or Bruiser adds humor and personality. Many owners love the contrast between a small body and a mighty name.
Try something different like Cricket, Gizmo, Pippin, Ziggy, or Rolo. You can also explore pop culture or other languages — for example, Yoda or Bilbo.
Choosing the perfect name for your little boy dog should be fun, not stressful. Whether you want something classic like Buddy or playful like Ziggy, the best name is the one that makes you smile every time you say it.
Once you’ve picked a name, take a look at our other guides for inspiration — from female small dog names to Disney-inspired names and more. Whatever you choose, your tiny pup is sure to live up to it!
Having lived with dogs and cats most of her life, Janice served as a veterinary technician for ten years in Maryland and twelve years as a Shih Tzu dog breeder in Ohio.
Her education includes undergraduate degrees in Psychology with a minor in biology, Early Childhood Education, and Nursing, and a master's in Mental Health Counseling.
She is a lifelong learner, a dog lover, and passionate about the welfare of animals. Her favorite breed for over 50 years has been the Shih Tzu, but she has also lived with Poodles, Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Beagles, English Bulldogs, Carin Terriers, and a Cocker Spaniel.
When not writing, reading, and researching dog-related topics, she likes to spend time with her eight Shih Tzu dogs, husband, and family, as well as knitting and crocheting. She is also the voice behind Miracle Shih Tzu and Smart-Knit-Crocheting
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