Dog Names > Rusty

Rusty

Unisex

Meaning

Always slow-moving.

Origin

English

Pronunciation

/ˈrʌsti/

EDITOR'S NOTE

Emily P.

PupNames.com Contributor

Rusty, a name that conjures images of vintage cars and old fire hydrants, is a top-notch choice for your canine companion. It's a nod to our favorite animated robot, Rusty Rivets, and a tribute to the classic, weathered charm of antiquity. Etymologically, it's a playful wink to your dog's potential love for digging in the dirt, getting that rusty color on their paws. Plus, it's a perfect fit for any reddish-brown fur baby. So, if you're looking for a name that's a blend of pop culture, humor, and a dash of history, Rusty is a real tail-wagger!

Traits associated with the name Rusty:

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

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

Naming your dog Rusty suggests that you have an appreciation for classic, timeless things. It could also suggest that you have a fondness for the outdoors and nature.

Is Rusty a good dog name?

Rusty 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. Rusty 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'

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

Popularity: Historical Trend

Rusty was, in the past month, the 384th most viewed dog name on PupNames.com.

As of July 2025, Rusty 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.

We've seen quite a lot of variation in rank for this name, which may suggest seasonal factors or interest driven by pop culture events.

In the past week, Rusty was viewed 95 times, and liked 3 times.

Popularity: United States

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

Rusty is most adored in Colorado, Idaho and Connecticut.

By contrast, the name has been shown the least amount of interest in Maine, Mississippi and Hawaii.

Popularity: Around The World

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

Famous dogs named Rusty:

A german shepherd named Rusty played a role in the movie For the Love of Rusty.
A beagle named Rusty played a role in the movie Rusty: The Great Rescue.
A dog named Rusty played a role in the movie Home on the Range.