Dog Names > Dolly

Dolly

Female

Meaning

Cute Child

Origin

English

Pronunciation

/ˈdɑli/

EDITOR'S NOTE

Emily P.

PupNames.com Contributor

Dolly is a pawfect dog name, and here's why. It's a nod to the iconic Dolly Parton, so your pup will always be ready to belt out a howl in tune. It's also a tribute to Dolly the sheep, the first mammal cloned from an adult cell. So, if your dog has a knack for mischief, you can joke about her being a clone. Plus, in 19th century England, 'dolly' was a term for a darling or favorite. So, if your dog is your favorite (and let's face it, she is), Dolly is a historically accurate choice. No 'coat of many colors' required!

Traits associated with the name Dolly:

Dogs named Dolly tend to be loving, affectionate, good-natured, and industrious. This feminine name is also associated with companionship, beauty, and friendship.

What does it say about you to have a dog named Dolly?

Naming your dog Dolly may suggest that you are a fan of classic country music, as Dolly Parton is a well-known country singer. It may also suggest that you are a fan of classic names, as Dolly is a timeless name.

Is Dolly a good dog name?

Dolly has two syllables, which is highly recommended by dog trainers. The name also ends in a vowel sound, so it's easy for dogs to recognize. Dolly is a widely loved dog name for good reason. If you like it, go for it!

Popularity: Overall

142

218

New York City Dog Name Database

116

Los Angeles Times 'Top Dogs'

Dolly is one of the more popular dog names out there. According to our data, Dolly outranks the great majority of names.

Popularity: Historical Trend

Dolly was, in the past month, the 76th most viewed dog name on PupNames.com.

As of May 2025, Dolly is becoming a more popular moniker with new puppy owners. Our stats show that the name is more fashionable than it was at this time last year.

In general, this name has held steady in popularity with PupNames.com visitors.

In the past week, Dolly was viewed 161 times, and liked 1 times.

Popularity: United States

The map below shows Dolly's popularity across the United States, according to PupNames data.

Dolly is most adored in Montana, Connecticut and Indiana.

By contrast, the name has been shown the least amount of interest in Hawaii, Delaware and West Virginia.

Popularity: Around The World

And this world map shows which countries have the greatest love for the name Dolly.

Dolly is found in these categories:

old-fashioned

Popularized in the 19th century, it's a relic from Victorian times.

country

The name is inspired by famous American singer-songwriter Dolly Parton, known for her contributions to music genre.

cuddly

Dolly evokes softness, warmth, and the comfort of a favorite toy.

cute

Parton's charm and sheepish cloning fame lend it an adorable appeal.

small

Dolly oozes cuteness, perfect for petite pups with big personalities!

Dog names like Dolly:

Daisy

Day's eye. The petals of a daisy open during the day, revealing its yellow centers, and then close at night.

Dixie

From The South In The U.S.

Dora

Gift

Dottie

Gift of God.

Daphne

The very intelligent character from scooby doo

Darla

Dear, Loved One

Comments (4)

🇺🇸

Adrianna (Tennessee, United States)

I think dolly is a great name for a dog who loves to help out in jobs such as with firefighters, like Dalmatians, but it also remind me life five Hugh Hackman’s golden retriever, dolly.
June 30, 2024

🇺🇸

(Mississippi, United States)

Named my dog Dolly and I'm in love with it!
December 22, 2023

🇺🇸

Anonymous (Georgia, United States)

I love the name Dolly. I love Dolly Parton
August 06, 2023

🇺🇸

Rheda (North Carolina, United States)

I named my dog Dolly for Dolly Parton. I love it!
January 13, 2022

Let us know what you think of Dolly as a dog name!