Dog Names > Duke

Duke

Unisex

Meaning

Leader, commander, governor of a province

Origin

Latin

Pronunciation

/djuːk/

EDITOR'S NOTE

Emily P.

PupNames.com Contributor

I love seeing Duke held in such high regard by our community, because it represents a departure from all of the cutesy names we tend to see at the top of the charts.

Duke carries an air of nobility and strength, perfect for a commanding, confident canine. The name Duke, historically a noble rank just below a monarch, suggests a sense of leadership and dignity. It's a name that has weight and presence, ideal for a dog with a strong personality or a majestic appearance.

However, every name has its flip side. Duke might be a bit common in the realm of dog names, especially for larger breeds like German Shepherds or Great Danes. It's also a name that sets certain expectations of size and demeanor, so it might not be the perfect fit for a smaller, more easygoing breed.

Duke has been a favored choice for decades, especially in Western cultures. It resonates with dog owners looking for a name that embodies strength and regality. and is a solid, commanding name for a dog with a strong presence and a noble spirit. 🐕👑💪

Traits associated with the name Duke:

Dogs named Duke tend to be loving, loyal, affectionate, and good-natured. This name is also associated with companionship, and intelligence.

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

Naming your dog Duke suggests that you have a strong sense of loyalty and respect for authority. It could also suggest that you have a strong sense of tradition and a love of classic names.

Is Duke a good dog name?

Duke is a one-syllable dog name, making it short and snappy. The name also ends in a vowel sound, so it's easy for dogs to recognize. Duke is a widely loved dog name for good reason. If you like it, go for it!

Popularity: Overall

New York City Dog Name Database

Los Angeles Times 'Top Dogs'

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

Popularity: Historical Trend

Duke was, in the past month, the 60th most viewed dog name on PupNames.com.

As of July 2025, Duke 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, Duke was viewed 128 times, and liked 4 times.

Popularity: United States

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

Duke is most adored in Delaware, Wisconsin and Iowa.

By contrast, the name has been shown the least amount of interest in New Mexico, Vermont and New Hampshire.

Popularity: Around The World

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

Famous dogs named Duke:

A dog named Duke appeared in the comic book Kelly & Duke by Jack Moore.
A great dane named Duke played a role in the movie Bathing Beauty.
A english mastiff named Duke played a role in the movie The Quiet American.
A great dane named Duke played a role in the movie Seven Pounds.
A dog named Duke played a role in the movie The Swiss Family Robinson.
A bloodhound named Duke featured in the television show The Beverly Hillbillies.
A sheepdog named Duke played a role in the movie Barnyard.
A dog named Duke played a role in the movie The Secret Life of Pets.
A dog named Duke featured in the television show Captain N: The Game Master.
A sheepdog named Duke featured in the television show Back at the Barnyard.