Max
Meaning
Greatest
Origin
German
Pronunciation
/mæks/
Alright, let's talk Max. Yes, it might seem like the 'vanilla ice cream' of dog names, but hear me out.
Max is actually the trusty Labrador of names. It's classic, friendly, and versatile, as easily applied to a spry Jack Russell as to a dignified Great Dane.
Along with elegance, Max has got a history too – it comes from the Latin 'Maximus', meaning 'greatest'.
And pop culture just loooves Max. Remember Max from The Secret Life of Pets? Or how about 'Mad Max', for those with a taste for the wild side?
Max deserves respect, because it's stood the test of time for a reason. And giving your dog this name is like giving them a cozy, well-loved pair of sneakers – it's comfortable, reliable, and always in style.
Traits associated with the name Max:
Dogs named Max tend to be loving, affectionate, good-natured, and brave. This name is also associated with companionship, and intelligence.
What does it say about you to have a dog named Max?
That you have a fondness for classic names and may have a preference for traditional values.
Is Max a good dog name?
Max is a one-syllable dog name, making it short and snappy. Max is a widely loved dog name for good reason. If you like it, go for it!
Popularity: Overall
As you can see, Max is one of the world's most popular dog names.
Popularity: Historical Trend
Max was, in the past month, the 10th most viewed dog name on PupNames.com.
As of July 2025, Max is becoming ever more niche with new puppy owners. Our stats suggest that the name is less 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, Max was viewed 159 times, and liked 5 times.
Popularity: United States
The map below shows Max's popularity across the United States, according to PupNames data.
Max is most adored in Indiana, North Carolina and Georgia.
By contrast, the name has been shown the least amount of interest in New Mexico, New Hampshire and Montana.
Popularity: Around The World
And this world map shows which countries have the greatest love for the name Max.
Most popular breeds named Max:
- German Shepherd
- Labrador Retriever
- Chihuahua
- Rottweiler
- Golden Retriever
Famous dogs named Max:
A mongrel named Max was a character in the book How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss.
A dog named Max appeared in the comic book Lola by Todd Clark.
A tibetan mastiff named Max played a role in the movie Man's Best Friend.- A rottweiler named Max played a role in the movie Show Dogs.
- A siberian husky named Max played a role in the movie Eight Below.
- A belgian sheepdog named Max played a role in the movie Max.
- A belgian shepherd named Max played a role in the movie Max.
- A dog named Max played a role in the movie How The Grinch Stole Christmas.
- A old english sheepdog named Max played a role in the movie The Little Mermaid.
- A dog named Max played a role in the movie How the Grinch Stole Christmas.
- A jack russell terrier named Max played a role in the movie The Secret Life of Pets.
- A dog named Max played a role in the movie Mickey Mouse universe.
A dog named Max featured in the television show Goof Troop.
Max is found in these categories:
posh
Derived from Maximilian, a moniker favored by European royalty.
cute
Popular among adorable canine characters in children's literature and films.
old-fashioned
Popularized in early 20th century, harking back to nostalgic canine classics.
british
Commonly used in UK, often short for Maximilian or Maxwell.
movie
He's named after a heroic canine from a popular film franchise.
german
Common given name in Germany, derived from Maximilian, meaning "greatest".
playful
The name's simplicity and popularity among pet owners, often associated with energetic and friendly canine personalities.
traditional
Popular in classic literature and Hollywood canine stars.
disney
Featured in "The Little Mermaid," he's Prince Eric's loyal canine companion.
famous
Popularized by films like "Mad Max" and "The Secret Life of Pets".
hunting
Max is short, easy to call out, and has a strong, masculine connotation, suitable for a hunting dog.
winter
Associations with the Grinch's loyal pet in the holiday classic, "How the Grinch Stole Christmas".
Dog names like Max:
August 03, 2024
June 09, 2022
May 30, 2022
Let us know what you think of Max as a dog name!