Native American culture has a profound impact on modern society, including the popular use of Native American names for both people and pets. With deep meanings rooted in nature, strength, and spirituality, Native American names offer a unique way to honor this rich heritage.
Here, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of Native American dog names to help you find the perfect name for your furry friend.
Why Choose a Native American Name for Your Dog?
Each Native American tribe has unique words for animals, with many names inspired by nature and the spiritual world. For instance, the Cherokee word for dog is Gihli. Naming your dog with a Native American word can reflect a connection to nature, strength, or the spirit world, which played a vital role in Native American culture.
Native American names are also special because they often change throughout an individual’s life to reflect achievements or traits. This tradition can be a meaningful way to choose a name that fits your dog’s personality and appearance.
Famous Native American Dog Names
If you’re looking for a name that embodies strength and historical significance, consider naming your dog after famous Native Americans:
- Cochise – A leader of the Apache people.
- Geronimo – An iconic Apache warrior.
- Pocahontas – Known for her role in English and Native American history.
- Sacagawea – A Shoshone guide who assisted Lewis and Clark.
- Sitting Bull – A respected Lakota Sioux chief.
- Crazy Horse – A legendary Oglala Sioux warrior.
- Red Cloud – Another Lakota leader and chief.
- Tecumseh – A Shawnee warrior and leader.
Native American Dog Names & Meanings
Here’s a curated list of Native American-inspired names, each with unique meanings and connections to the indigenous culture.
Names Inspired by Native American Tribes
Consider naming your dog after a Native American tribe to honor the cultural heritage:
- Apache
- Cherokee
- Dakota – Meaning “friend” or “ally.”
- Inuit
- Lakota – Meaning “friend” or “alliance.”
- Navajo
- Sioux
- Zuni
Nature-Inspired Native American Dog Names
Native American names often draw from nature. Here are some beautiful options for dog names inspired by the natural world:
- Ahawi – Deer
- Ama – Water
- Atsila – Fire
- Kai – Willow tree
- Maka – Earth
- Onawa – Nocturnal
- Soma – Sun
- Tallulah – Leaping water
Colorful Names Inspired by Nature’s Palette
Native American names also celebrate colors, perfect for dogs with striking coats.
- Henna – Red
- Hento – Blue
- Kilchii – Red boy
- Miko – Red
- Sesi – Snow
- Skah – White
- Yahto – Blue
Explore more in our guide on White Dog Names.
Unique Spirit Names from Native American Culture
Native American spirituality often honors animals and natural elements, making these names ideal for a dog with a gentle or wise personality.
- Abedabun – Sight of day
- Adsila – Blossom
- Aiyana – Eternal blossom
- Amitola – Rainbow
- Chumani – Dewdrops
- Kanti – Sings
- Koko – Night
- Waneta – Charger
Strong Native American Dog Names
For powerful, resilient breeds, these names reflect strength and bravery:
- Ahonu – He who laughs
- Animosh – Dog
- Cheveyo – Spirit warrior
- Denali – The great one
- Enapay – Strong and powerful
- Kitchi – Brave
- Maska – Strong and brave
- Nina – Strong
Names Meaning “Chief” or “Boss”
These names, meaning chief or leader, are perfect for a dominant or confident dog:
- Akiak – Brave
- Dasan – Chief
- Micco – Chief
- Tyee – Leader
- Yuma – Chief’s son
Cute Native American Dog Names
For smaller or playful dogs, these cute names offer a fun twist:
- Achak – Spirit
- Adahy – In the oak tree
- Aponi – Butterfly
- Elsu – Flying falcon
- Imala – Disciplined
- Kaya – Elder sister
- Miki – Little
- Nova – Chaser of butterflies
Native American Dog Names Based on Animals
Names inspired by animals are particularly fitting for pets, symbolizing loyalty, bravery, and connection to nature.
- Ahmik – Beaver
- Askook – Snake
- Fala – Crow
- Kangee – Raven
- Kuruk – Bear
- Makwa – Bear
- Sasa – Swan
- Toucho – Mountain lion
Names for “Wolf,” “Coyote,” and “Fox”
For dogs with wild or mysterious traits, these names carry a powerful connection to iconic animals, such as the bold and intriguing Wolf Dog Names:
- Amarok – Wolf
- Honiahaka – Little wolf
- Inola – Black fox
- Kiyaya – Howling wolf
- Maheegan – Wolf
- Shunkaha – Wolf
- Tikaani – Wolf
- Tokala – Fox
Popular Male and Female Native American Dog Names
Here are some of the best Native American names for male and female dogs:
Female Native American Dog Names
- Ayasha – Little one
- Itzel – Rainbow
- Mansi – Plucked flowers
- Onawa – Wide awake
- Quanah – Fragrant
- Shadi – Older sister
- Utah – People of the mountains
- Waneta – Charger
Indigenous Names for Large, Strong Female Dogs
- Anpaytoo – Radiant
- Hiawassee – Beautiful meadow
- Iskwew – Woman
- Maji – Strong
- Nita – Bear
- Paytah – Fire
- Tama – Thunder
- Wuti – Woman
Cute and Small Female Native American Dog Names
- Aqene – Peace
- Kimi – Secret
- Papina – Ivy
- Tehya – Precious
- Weeko – Pretty
- Yazhi – Little one
- Yoki – Rain
Male Native American Dog Names
- Ahiga – He fights
- Aponivi – Where the wind blows down the gap
- Chaske – Firstborn son
- Eluwilussit – Holy one
- Hototo – Warrior spirit who sings
- Igasho – Wanderer
- Kachada – White man
- Nodin – Wind
How to Choose the Right Native American Name for Your Dog
Choosing a Native American name for your dog is a special way to honor the rich culture and heritage of indigenous peoples. Reflect on your dog’s personality, appearance, and breed characteristics when selecting a name. Try saying the name aloud to see if it resonates with your dog, or ask friends and family for input.
If you have any Native American names you’d like to add to this list, let us know in the comments below!