UPDATE: The ACT Government has just released the top pet names for 2025, revealing a surprising shift in the rankings. While Luna remains the favorite name for cats, it has been dethroned as the top dog name by Daisy. This significant change has pet owners buzzing across Canberra.
The announcement, made earlier today, highlights the evolving preferences of pet owners in the region. Daisy is now the most popular dog name, followed closely by Luna, marking a reversal from last year’s rankings. The top ten dog names also include Charlie, Coco, Teddy, and Milo, while cat enthusiasts continue to favor Luna, Milo, and Willow.
In terms of breeds, Cavoodles have maintained their status as the most beloved dog breed for the fourth consecutive year, with Border Collies and Dachshunds following behind. For cats, the Domestic Short Hair tops the list, trailed by the Domestic Medium Hair and the popular Ragdoll breed.
Pet food company Purina describes Ragdolls as affectionate and intelligent, capable of forming strong bonds with their owners. “Ragdolls are loving, smart, and playful,” they stated, emphasizing their engaging nature.
Additionally, the ACT Government noted a literary trend in pet naming this year. Unique names inspired by popular culture have emerged, including characters from The Lord of the Rings and Harry Potter. Standouts include Frodo, Samwise, and Albus Dumbleclaw. This year also saw names drawn from Greek mythology, such as Zeus, Athena, and Hercules, suggesting a vibrant literary scene among Canberra’s pet owners.
Minister for City and Government Services Tara Cheyne expressed gratitude towards pet owners for registering their animals, emphasizing that this practice not only sheds light on naming trends but also helps reunite lost pets with their owners. “Annual registration is compulsory and free for all cats and dogs older than eight weeks,” she noted.
As temperatures rise, Minister Cheyne reminded pet owners to ensure their pets remain comfortable. “To keep your pet cool over summer, ensure they have access to fresh drinking water and shade all day,” she advised. Owners are encouraged to avoid walking pets during peak heat hours, opting instead for early mornings or evenings.
With these insights, Canberra’s pet owners can stay ahead of the curve when choosing names and breeds for their furry companions. It’s clear that 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for pets in the ACT, with evolving preferences and a strong sense of community among pet lovers.
Stay tuned for more updates as we track the latest trends in pet ownership!

































