Dog Names > Spike

Spike

Unisex

Meaning

Stingy or pointed.

Origin

Indian

Pronunciation

/spaɪk/

EDITOR'S NOTE

Emily P.

PupNames.com Contributor

Spike, a name that screams "I'm a tough cookie," is a classic choice for our canine companions. It's a nod to the punk rock era, where spikes were all the rage, and it's also a tribute to Spike, the lovable bulldog from Tom and Jerry. Plus, it's a fun way to add a dash of irony if your pooch is a tiny, fluffy breed. Etymologically, Spike means "long, heavy nail," which is perfect if your dog has a strong, unyielding personality. So, if you want a name that's both edgy and endearing, Spike is a top-notch pick!

Traits associated with the name Spike:

Dogs named Spike tend to be loving, loyal, good-natured, and brave. This name is also associated with companionship, and courage.

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

Naming your dog Spike suggests that you have a sense of humor and enjoy giving your pet a unique name. It could also suggest that you are a fan of classic cartoons, as Spike is a popular name for cartoon characters.

Is Spike a good dog name?

Spike 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. Spike is a widely loved dog name for good reason. If you like it, go for it!

Popularity: Overall

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110

New York City Dog Name Database

Los Angeles Times 'Top Dogs'

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

Popularity: Historical Trend

Spike was, in the past month, the 100th most viewed dog name on PupNames.com.

As of July 2025, Spike 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, Spike was viewed 143 times, and liked 0 times.

Popularity: United States

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

Spike is most adored in Arkansas, Kentucky and Texas.

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

Popularity: Around The World

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

Famous dogs named Spike:

A bulldog named Spike appeared in the comic book Peanuts by Charles M. Schulz.
A bulldog named Spike appeared in the comic book Heathcliff by George Gately.
A rottweiler named Spike played a role in the movie Alien 3.
A english bulldog named Spike played a role in the movie The Game Plan.
A bulldog named Spike played a role in the movie Tom and Jerry.
A bulldog named Spike played a role in the movie Looney Tunes.
A bull mastiff named Spike played a role in the movie Sinbad: Legend of the Seven Seas.
A bulldog named Spike featured in the television show Heathcliff.
A siberian tiger hound named Spike featured in the television show Rugrats.