In a reflection of societal trends and the bond between New Yorkers and their pets, new data reveals that “Luna” has secured its position as the most popular dog name in New York City for the third consecutive year. This interesting finding comes from city health officials who track canine licenses issued throughout the five boroughs.
The name “Luna,” which means “moon” in Latin, was recorded a total of 591 times among licensed dogs in 2024. Following closely behind is “Bella,” which, though it held the top spot previously, has now settled into second place with 531 licenses. The data was released as part of New York City’s ongoing requirement for dog owners to license their pets through the Department of Health.
In 2024, the city issued a total of 51,863 dog licenses, pointing to a vibrant dog-loving community. However, this year has shown a noticeable decline in new dog licenses, down 37% compared to 2023. This drop indicates a shift in pet ownership trends that could be attributed to various factors, including economic pressures and the aftermath of the pandemic.
The popular names do not stop at Luna and Bella. Other names that have made it to the top of the list include Milo, Coco, Max, and Charlie. Additionally, beloved names like Teddy, Lola, Rocky, and Daisy continue to resonate with dog owners, showcasing the variety of choices owners make when naming their furry friends.
Interestingly, while more than 2,600 dog licenses were issued without any names registered, a few unique and quirky names also found their way onto the list. Among the standout entries, 37 dogs were named Onyx, 25 were called Butter, and 19 were humorously named Mr. In a curious twist, 26 dogs shared the name Shih Tzu—reflecting the specific breed they represent.
Despite the fluctuations in dog ownership, larger trends can be seen when examining the types of breeds most loved by New Yorkers. The Yorkshire Terrier has taken the top spot as the most licensed breed, with 2,498 Yorkies registered in 2024. Interestingly, even amid changing preferences, the Shih Tzu remains a close competitor, topping the list among the more popular names while ranking second in ownership.
The journey of dog ownership in New York City has experienced dramatic changes, especially in recent years. Prior to the pandemic, dog licenses were issued at an average of 74,000 annually between 2016 and 2020. The pandemic saw a spike as many sought the companionship of a pet during lockdowns, causing an influx in registrations—108,312 in 2020 and 92,559 in 2021. However, after this peak, numbers began to drop again, with only 49,470 licenses issued in 2022. The total did see a recovery in 2023, with 83,220 licenses, but the subsequent decline in 2024 raises concerns about the longevity of pet ownership trends.
As pet ownership continues to evolve in the city, it’s clear that dogs remain a significant part of New York’s identity. Owners cherish the companionship their dogs provide while navigating through the hustle and bustle of city life. The trend of naming dogs after celestial bodies like Luna may also reflect a broader cultural fascination with nature and positivity, suggesting that even in urban environments, we seek connections that ground us in simplicity and joy.
As New Yorkers move through changing seasons, their beloved pets will continue to bring warmth and companionship, reminding everyone of the simple pleasures of life in the big city.
