Male Dog Names: What are the Meanings of Common Male Dog Names?

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What is in a dog's name? There are lists of common dog names, but...what do they mean? Are certain dog names associated with certain characteristics and traits?

After interviewing several veterinarians about this hypothesis, it was determined that there are certain characteristics generally associated with different dog names.

A list of the top 30 male dogs names were compiled by Veterinary Pet Insurance over 300,000 policy holders. The following are characteristics associated with each name:

The Meaning Behind the Top 30 Male Dog Names

1. MAX – Dogs named Max are generally happy dogs. They like to be petted and groomed and are considered fun-loving. They are very trustworthy companions. Some dogs named Max can be fiercely independent and work to keep their aggression under control. Origin: Latin. The meaning is: A Salmon Basin or large spring.

2. BUDDY – The majority of dogs named Buddy are mixed breed dogs owned or named by men. They are often rescued or strays brought into homes and hearts across the world. They are generally loyal and adore their owners. Origin: American English. The meaning is: Messenger Man.

3. JAKE – Dogs named Jake are often fun-loving and happy dogs. They like to play and better yet – loved to sleep. They have that "boy next door" appeal. Origin: Hebrew. The meaning is: Supplanter; to fill the place of another.

4. ROCKY – Most dogs named Rocky have big personalities. They are often playful and strong. They can be either big or small dogs but have a strong personalities and may be dominant. Origin: English. The meaning is: A Rocky Reef.

5. BAILEY – This is a great dog name. Dogs named Bailey are often loyal and good-natured. Most "Baileys" are very trainable. They are smart dogs, eager to please and respond well to obedience training if given the opportunity. Origin: English. The meaning is: Bailiff; Trusted Guardian.

6. BUSTER – Buster is a fairly diverse name and associated with many different types of personalities. It is often given to little dogs with big personalities. They are rarely dressed in dog clothes and if they are – it is only a masculine bandana. Dogs named Buster can also have a sneaky quality and may be quick to steal food or do something else that you don't know about. Origin: American English. The meaning is: Joy.

7. CODY – Cody is a great name and is often associated with dogs that are gentle and mild-mannered. They are eager to please and want to be loved. Most Cody's are very huggable. Origin: English. Meaning: Reassuring.

8. CHARLIE – Charlie is a great dog name and is used on just about every breed, shape and size. Most "Charlie's" are warm-hearted loyal dogs with friendly personalities. They generally like to play and enjoy either fetching or chewing. Origin: German. The meaning is: Man; strong and masculine.

9. BEAR – Dogs named "Bear" are often adorable long haired fluffy dogs that come in a variety of sizes and colors. It is a common name for Shar peis. They are generally loyal dogs but can have aggressive tendencies. Behavior training is generally a good idea. Origin: American English. The meaning is: Bear; bulky with lots of hair.

10. JACK – Dogs named "Jack" are often fairly carefree. They are often mixed breed dogs, however, they can also be purebred. They generally love life and can truly be man's best friend. Dogs named Jack are often described as "quiet". Origin: English. The meaning is: God is Forgiving or God's gracious gift.

11. TOBY – Most dogs named Toby can be described as "Cool". They have a friendly and often energetic demeanor with sweet personalities. They are good dogs and loyal companions. Origin: Greek. The meaning is: From Tobias - The Goodness in God; God is good.

12. DUKE – Dogs named Duke are loyal, loving dogs. They are often "people" dogs and don't want you out if their sight. Most Dukes are medium to larger sized dogs. They can be dominant and smart and respond well to obedience training. Origin: Latin. The meaning is: Leader of the Herd; high-ranking nobleman.

13. LUCKY – Lucky is a common dog name and used for many pets that have suffered an unfortunate experience followed by being rescued. These dogs are generally happy and well meaning. They are loving and loyal and realize their good fortune in the new home that they found with you. Origin: English. The meaning is: Happiness and having good luck.

14. SAM – Sam is a carefree name given to dogs with a good outlook on life. They seem to know what is important and that have a special place in your heart. They are loyal and kind. Origin: Hebrew. The meaning is: Heard by God.