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Native American Dog Names

Native American Dog Names

What is a good Native American dog name?

Discover a list of over 250 Native American dog names inspired by culture, language, history, and nature.

Find the perfect name that reflects your dog’s spirit and honors Native American heritage.

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Native American Dog Names
Native American Dog Names
Native American Dog Names

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Embracing Native American Culture: A Guide to Meaningful Dog Names

Native American dog names offer a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and symbolism, providing a unique way to connect your pet with the traditions and stories of indigenous communities.

From names inspired by Native American languages to those reflecting historical figures and natural landscapes, there’s a wealth of options to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a name that resonates with strength, wisdom, or beauty, Native American culture has something to offer every dog owner seeking a meaningful and distinctive name.

Best Dog Names inspired by Native American Culture

Boy Native American Dog Names

  1. Kitchi: Means “Brave” in Algonquin, suitable for a courageous dog.
  2. Makwa: Translates to “Bear” in Algonquin, ideal for a strong and protective dog.
  3. Takoda: Means “Friend to Everyone” in Sioux, perfect for a sociable dog.
  4. Yansa: Means “Buffalo” in Cherokee, suitable for a large and powerful dog.
  5. Hanska: Translates to “Tall” in Sioux, ideal for a large breed dog.

Girl Native American Dog Names

  1. Winona: Means “Firstborn Daughter” in Sioux, perfect for a cherished pet.
  2. Sacagawea: Named after the famous Shoshone woman, symbolizing bravery and guidance.
  3. Cherokee: Inspired by the Cherokee tribe, suitable for a dog with a strong cultural connection.
  4. Aiyana: Means “Eternal Blossom,” ideal for a dog that brings joy and positivity.
  5. Pocahontas: Named after the famous Powhatan woman, representing diplomacy and harmony.

Native American Dog Names

Female Dog Names

  1. Aiyana: Eternal blossom, symbolizing beauty and longevity
  2. Ama: Means “water” in Cherokee, perfect for a water-loving dog
  3. Chenoa: Meaning “white dove,” representing peace and purity
  4. Kaya: Translates to “elder sister,” ideal for a nurturing female dog
  5. Kiona: Means “brown hills,” suitable for a dog with earthy coloring
  6. Muna: Signifies “overflowing spring,” representing abundance and vitality
  7. Nita: Means “bear,” perfect for a strong and protective female dog
  8. Nokomis: Translates to “daughter of the moon,” evoking mystique and beauty
  9. Onawa: Means “wide awake,” ideal for an alert and attentive dog
  10. Pavita: Signifies “clear water,” representing purity and transparency
  11. Pocahontas: Named after the famous Native American woman, symbolizing bravery and diplomacy
  12. Shawnee: Derived from the Shawnee tribe, representing strength and resilience
  13. Tallulah: Means “leaping water” in Choctaw, perfect for an energetic dog
  14. Winona: Translates to “firstborn daughter,” ideal for a cherished pet
  15. Yoki: Means “rain” in Hopi, suitable for a dog that brings joy like gentle rain
  16. Kasa: Means “dressed in furs” in Hopi, perfect for a fluffy dog
  17. Kanti: Signifies “sings” in Algonquin, ideal for a vocal dog
  18. Kimi: Means “secret” in Algonquin, suitable for a mysterious pup
  19. Weeko: Translates to “pretty” in Sioux, perfect for a beautiful dog
  20. Una: Means “one,” ideal for an only dog or the first of many

Male Dog Names

  1. Ahanu: Means “he laughs,” perfect for a joyful, playful dog
  2. Cheveyo: Signifies “spirit warrior,” ideal for a brave and protective dog
  3. Dakota: Means “friend or ally,” suitable for a loyal companion
  4. Honon: Translates to “bear,” perfect for a large, strong dog
  5. Kitchi: Means “brave or courageous,” ideal for a fearless pup
  6. Makwa: Signifies “bear” in Algonquin, suitable for a big, cuddly dog
  7. Nokosi: Means “bear” in Seminole, perfect for a robust and powerful dog
  8. Takoda: Translates to “friend to all,” ideal for a sociable dog
  9. Waya: Means “wolf” in Cherokee, suitable for a dog with wolf-like features
  10. Ahuli: Signifies “drum” in Cherokee, perfect for a dog with a deep bark
  11. Hinto: Means “blue” in Dakota, ideal for a dog with blue eyes or coat
  12. Micco: Translates to “chief” in Seminole, suitable for a leader among dogs
  13. Kuruk: Means “bear” in Pawnee, perfect for a strong and protective dog
  14. Miwak: Signifies “growl of a bear” in Miwok, ideal for a dog with a deep growl
  15. Kohana: Means “swift” in Sioux, suitable for a fast and agile dog
  16. Yansa: Translates to “buffalo” in Cherokee, perfect for a large, sturdy dog
  17. Honi: Means “wolf” in Arapaho, ideal for a dog with wolf-like qualities
  18. Maikoh: Signifies “wolf” in Navajo, suitable for a loyal and pack-oriented dog
  19. Yuma: Means “song of the chief” in Navajo, perfect for a vocal, commanding dog
  20. Hanska: Translates to “tall” in Sioux, ideal for a large breed dog

Dog Names Inspired by Native American Language

  1. Aponis: Means “butterfly” in Algonquin, perfect for a delicate, graceful dog
  2. Bidaban: Signifies “beginning of dawn,” ideal for a dog that brings new hope
  3. Calian: Means “warrior of life,” suitable for a resilient, strong dog
  4. Dyami: Translates to “eagle,” perfect for a majestic, proud dog
  5. Elan: Means “friendly” or “tree,” ideal for a sociable or grounded dog
  6. Hassun: Signifies “stone,” suitable for a solid, dependable dog
  7. Jacy: Means “moon,” perfect for a dog with a luminous personality
  8. Keme: Translates to “secret thunder,” ideal for a quietly powerful dog
  9. Lonato: Means “flint stone,” suitable for a tough, resilient dog
  10. Luta: Signifies “red,” perfect for a dog with reddish fur
  11. Mahkah: Means “one with the Earth,” ideal for a grounded, nature-loving dog
  12. Makya: Translates to “eagle hunter,” suitable for a keen, observant dog
  13. Ouray: Means “arrow,” perfect for a swift, direct dog
  14. Paytah: Signifies “fire,” ideal for a dog with a fiery personality
  15. Quanah: Means “fragrant,” suitable for a sweet-smelling pup
  16. Raini: Translates to “singer,” perfect for a vocal, musical dog
  17. Sahale: Means “above,” ideal for a dog that likes to climb or jump
  18. Tasunke: Signifies “horse,” suitable for a fast, strong dog
  19. Tatanka: Means “buffalo,” perfect for a large, powerful dog
  20. Tattuye: Translates to “fox,” ideal for a clever, quick dog

Dog Names Inspired by Native American Slang

  1. Bingo: A popular game in many Native American communities, suitable for a playful dog
  2. Rez: Short for “reservation,” ideal for a dog from or living on a reservation
  3. Fry Bread: A popular Native American food, perfect for a sweet, comforting dog
  4. Powwow: Referring to a gathering or celebration, suitable for a social dog
  5. Moccasin: Traditional Native American footwear, ideal for a quiet-stepping dog
  6. Wampum: Referring to traditional shell beads, perfect for a precious, valuable dog
  7. Tipi: Traditional Native American dwelling, suitable for a dog that loves home
  8. Kachina: Referring to spirit beings in Pueblo culture, ideal for a mystical dog
  9. Dreamcatcher: A traditional charm, perfect for a dog that catches dreams
  10. Sage: A sacred herb used in cleansing rituals, suitable for a purifying presence
  11. Coyote: Often used in Native American folklore, ideal for a clever, adaptable dog
  12. Trickster: Referring to mischievous spirits in folklore, perfect for a playful dog
  13. Medicine: Often used to refer to spiritual power, suitable for a healing presence
  14. Vision: Referring to spiritual experiences, ideal for an insightful dog
  15. Smoke: Often used in ceremonial contexts, perfect for a gray or misty-colored dog
  16. Sweat: Referring to sweat lodge ceremonies, suitable for a dog that likes heat
  17. Tobacco: A sacred plant in many tribes, ideal for a dog with earthy colors
  18. Corn: A staple crop, perfect for a golden-colored or nourishing presence
  19. Turquoise: A sacred stone, suitable for a dog with blue-green eyes
  20. Wakan: Meaning “sacred” in Lakota, ideal for a special, revered dog

Dog Names Inspired by Native American Places

  1. Acoma: Named after the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America
  2. Apache: Inspired by the Apache people and their territories
  3. Chaco: Named after Chaco Canyon, an important cultural site
  4. Cherokee: Inspired by the Cherokee Nation and their ancestral lands
  5. Comanche: Named after the Comanche people and their territories
  6. Dakota: Inspired by the Dakota people and the Dakotas region
  7. Hopi: Named after the Hopi people and their reservation
  8. Iroquois: Inspired by the Iroquois Confederacy and their territories
  9. Klamath: Named after the Klamath people and Klamath Basin
  10. Mohawk: Inspired by the Mohawk people and their territories
  11. Navajo: Named after the Navajo Nation, the largest reservation in the U.S.
  12. Oneida: Inspired by the Oneida people and their territories
  13. Pueblo: Named after the Pueblo peoples and their communities
  14. Seminole: Inspired by the Seminole people and their territories
  15. Shoshone: Named after the Shoshone people and their lands
  16. Sioux: Inspired by the Sioux people and their territories
  17. Taos: Named after Taos Pueblo, an ancient pueblo community
  18. Ute: Inspired by the Ute people and their territories
  19. Wichita: Named after the Wichita people and the city in Kansas
  20. Zuni: Inspired by the Zuni people and their pueblo

Dog Names Inspired by Native American History

  1. Crazy Horse: Named after the legendary Lakota war leader
  2. Geronimo: Inspired by the famous Apache leader
  3. Hiawatha: Named after the Onondaga leader who helped form the Iroquois Confederacy
  4. Pocahontas: Inspired by the famous Powhatan woman
  5. Sacagawea: Named after the Shoshone woman who guided Lewis and Clark
  6. Sequoyah: Inspired by the Cherokee silversmith who created the Cherokee syllabary
  7. Sitting Bull: Named after the Hunkpapa Lakota chief and holy man
  8. Tecumseh: Inspired by the Shawnee leader who formed a Native American confederacy
  9. Cochise: Named after the leader of the Chiricahua Apache
  10. Pontiac: Inspired by the Ottawa leader who led a rebellion against British rule
  11. Red Cloud: Named after the Oglala Lakota chief
  12. Squanto: Inspired by the Patuxet man who assisted the Pilgrims
  13. Osceola: Named after the influential Seminole leader
  14. Black Hawk: Inspired by the leader of the Sauk tribe
  15. Chief Joseph: Named after the leader of the Nez Perce
  16. Metacomet: Inspired by the Wampanoag chief also known as King Philip
  17. Powhatan: Named after the leader of the Powhatan Confederacy
  18. Tenskwatawa: Inspired by the Shawnee prophet and political leader
  19. Wovoka: Named after the Northern Paiute religious leader
  20. Massasoit: Inspired by the leader of the Wampanoag at the time of the Pilgrims’ arrival

Dog Names Inspired by Native American Food

  1. Acorn: A staple food for many Native American tribes
  2. Bison: An important source of food for Plains tribes
  3. Corn: A crucial crop in many Native American cultures
  4. Fry Bread: A popular Native American food
  5. Hominy: A food preparation method for corn used by many tribes
  6. Maize: Another name for corn, a staple in Native American diets
  7. Pemmican: A concentrated mixture of fat and protein used as a nutritious food
  8. Pinon: Pine nuts, an important food source for some tribes
  9. Salmon: A crucial food for many Pacific Northwest tribes
  10. Squash: One of the “Three Sisters” crops in Native American agriculture
  11. Succotash: A dish consisting primarily of corn and lima beans
  12. Taco: While not originally Native American, it’s now common in many communities
  13. Tamale: A Mesoamerican dish adopted by some Native American cultures
  14. Tepary: A type of bean cultivated by some Southwest tribes
  15. Three Sisters: Representing the main agricultural crops: corn, beans, and squash
  16. Tomatillo: A fruit used in many Native American cuisines
  17. Turkey: An important food source for many tribes
  18. Wild Rice: A crucial food for many tribes, especially in the Great Lakes region
  19. Yucca: A plant with edible parts used by many Southwest tribes
  20. Zucchini: A type of squash used in Native American cooking

Dog Names Inspired by Native American Animals

  1. Bear: Revered in many Native American cultures for its strength
  2. Beaver: Important in many creation myths and as a resource
  3. Buffalo: Central to the culture of many Plains tribes
  4. Coyote: Often portrayed as a trickster in Native American folklore
  5. Deer: An important game animal for many tribes
  6. Eagle: Considered sacred and symbolic of wisdom in many cultures
  7. Fox: Often associated with cunning in Native American stories
  8. Hawk: Revered for its keen eyesight and hunting skills
  9. Hummingbird: Symbolizes joy and love in some Native cultures
  10. Moose: An important food source for many northern tribes
  11. Otter: Often seen as playful and clever in Native American lore
  12. Owl: Associated with wisdom and foresight in many tribes, perfect for a dog with sharp instincts.
  13. Rabbit: Featured in many Native American folktales, ideal for a quick and agile dog.
  14. Raven: Often portrayed as a creator or trickster in Northwest Coast mythology, suitable for a mysterious and intelligent dog.
  15. Salmon: Crucial to the culture and sustenance of Pacific Northwest tribes, perfect for a dog with a strong connection to water.
  16. Snake: Symbolizes transformation in many Native American cultures, ideal for a dog that adapts easily.
  17. Turtle: Featured in creation myths of several tribes, suitable for a slow and steady dog.
  18. Wolf: Respected for its hunting skills and family structure, perfect for a loyal and protective dog.
  19. Wolverine: Admired for its strength and tenacity, ideal for a robust and resilient dog.
  20. Elk: An important game animal for many tribes, suitable for a large and majestic dog.

Dog Names Inspired by Native American Nature

  1. Canyon: Inspired by the deep gorges sacred to many tribes, perfect for a dog that loves to explore.
  2. Cedar: A tree with spiritual significance in many Native cultures, ideal for a dog with a calming presence.
  3. Desert: Reflecting the homeland of many Southwest tribes, suitable for a dog that thrives in dry environments.
  4. Forest: Representing the wooded areas many tribes called home, perfect for a dog that loves to roam in woods.
  5. Glacier: Inspired by the ice formations important in northern tribal lands, ideal for a dog with a cool demeanor.
  6. Lake: Reflecting the importance of water bodies in Native American life, suitable for a dog that loves water.
  7. Mesa: Named after the flat-topped mountains of the Southwest, perfect for a dog with a strong foundation.
  8. Mountain: Representing the sacred peaks in many tribal traditions, ideal for a dog that loves to climb.
  9. Oak: A tree revered for its strength in many Native cultures, suitable for a sturdy and reliable dog.
  10. Ocean: Reflecting the importance of the sea to coastal tribes, perfect for a dog that loves the ocean.
  11. Pine: Named after the evergreen trees important in many tribal areas, ideal for a dog with a fresh scent.
  12. Prairie: Representing the grasslands home to many Plains tribes, suitable for a dog that loves open spaces.
  13. River: Reflecting the crucial waterways in Native American life, perfect for a dog that loves to swim.
  14. Rock: Inspired by the stone formations sacred to many tribes, ideal for a solid and dependable dog.
  15. Sky: Representing the heavens important in many Native spiritualities, suitable for a dog with a free spirit.
  16. Star: Reflecting the importance of celestial bodies in Native cultures, perfect for a dog that shines bright.
  17. Sun: Central to many Native American spiritual beliefs, ideal for a warm and radiant dog.
  18. Thunder: Representing a powerful natural force in many tribal traditions, suitable for a dog with a strong presence.
  19. Valley: Inspired by the low-lying areas between mountains, perfect for a dog that loves to explore valleys.
  20. Waterfall: Reflecting the beauty and power of water in Native American landscapes, ideal for a dog that loves water.

Dog Names Inspired by Native American TV & Movies

  1. Grey Wolf: Inspired by characters or themes in Native American films, suitable for a dog with wolf-like qualities.
  2. Little Deer: Named after characters or symbols in Native American stories, perfect for a gentle and agile dog.
  3. Windtalker: Inspired by the Navajo code talkers featured in films, ideal for a dog with a unique voice.
  4. Dances with Wolves: Named after the famous film, suitable for a dog that loves to run free.
  5. Geronimo: Inspired by the famous Apache leader featured in films, perfect for a brave and adventurous dog.
  6. Pocahontas: Named after the Disney character, ideal for a dog with a free spirit.
  7. Cochise: Inspired by the Apache leader featured in films, suitable for a strong and protective dog.
  8. Sitting Bull: Named after the Hunkpapa Lakota chief featured in films, perfect for a wise and calm dog.
  9. Tecumseh: Inspired by the Shawnee leader featured in films, ideal for a strategic and intelligent dog.
  10. Black Elk: Named after the Oglala Lakota holy man featured in films, suitable for a mystical and insightful dog.

Common Dog Names in Native American Culture

  1. Koda: Means “little bear” in Sioux, perfect for a small but strong dog.
  2. Lakota: Named after the Lakota people, suitable for a dog with a strong tribal connection.
  3. Makwa: Means “bear” in Algonquin, ideal for a robust and protective dog.
  4. Nanabozho: Named after the Ojibwe trickster spirit, perfect for a clever and playful dog.
  5. Siku: Means “sea ice” in Inupiat, suitable for a dog that loves cold climates.
  6. Tatanka: Means “buffalo” in Lakota, perfect for a large and powerful dog.
  7. Waya: Means “wolf” in Cherokee, ideal for a dog with wolf-like qualities.
  8. Yuma: Named after the Yuma people, suitable for a dog with a strong desert connection.
  9. Zephyr: Inspired by the wind, which is important in many Native cultures, perfect for a light and airy dog.
  10. Kokopelli: Named after the fertility god in Southwestern tribes, ideal for a lively and energetic dog.

Funny Native American Dog Names

  1. Frybread: Named after the popular Native American food, perfect for a sweet and comforting dog.
  2. Moccasin: Inspired by traditional Native American footwear, suitable for a quiet-stepping dog.
  3. Powwow: Referring to a gathering or celebration, ideal for a social dog.
  4. Sage: A sacred herb used in cleansing rituals, perfect for a dog with a calming presence.
  5. Tumbleweed: Inspired by the desert plant, suitable for a dog that loves to roll around.
  6. Wampum: Referring to traditional shell beads, ideal for a precious and valuable dog.
  7. Coyote: Often used in Native American folklore, perfect for a clever and adaptable dog.
  8. Trickster: Referring to mischievous spirits in folklore, suitable for a playful dog.
  9. Dreamcatcher: A traditional charm, ideal for a dog that catches dreams.
  10. Vision: Referring to spiritual experiences, perfect for an insightful dog.

Unique Native American Dog Names

  1. Aiyanna: Means “eternal blossom,” suitable for a beautiful and enduring dog.
  2. Chenoa: Means “white dove,” perfect for a peaceful and gentle dog.
  3. Kaya: Translates to “elder sister,” ideal for a nurturing and protective dog.
  4. Kiona: Means “brown hills,” suitable for a dog with earthy coloring.
  5. Muna: Signifies “overflowing spring,” perfect for a lively and energetic dog.
  6. Nita: Means “bear,” ideal for a strong and protective dog.
  7. Nokomis: Translates to “daughter of the moon,” suitable for a mystical and beautiful dog.
  8. Onawa: Means “wide awake,” perfect for an alert and attentive dog.
  9. Pavita: Signifies “clear water,” ideal for a dog with a pure and transparent nature.
  10. Shawnee: Derived from the Shawnee tribe, suitable for a strong and resilient dog.

Ironic Native American Names

  1. Buffalo Bill: Named after the famous frontiersman, ironic for a small dog.
  2. Custer: Inspired by the infamous military leader, ironic for a peaceful dog.
  3. Geronimo Jones: A playful mix of the Apache leader and a common surname, suitable for a dog with a humorous personality.
  4. Little Big Horn: Named after the famous battle site, ironic for a small dog.
  5. Pioneer: Referring to early settlers, ironic for a dog that loves to stay home.
  6. Sitting Pretty: A playful take on Sitting Bull, suitable for a dog that likes to lounge around.
  7. Tecumseh Tiny: A mix of the Shawnee leader and a diminutive adjective, perfect for a small but fierce dog.
  8. Wounded Paw: A humorous take on Wounded Knee, suitable for a dog with a limp or injury.
  9. Yellowstone: Named after the national park, ironic for a dog that never ventures far.
  10. Zuni Zest: A playful mix of the Zuni people and a lively adjective, perfect for a lively and energetic dog.

Additional Names

  1. Akira: Means “bright” or “clear,” suitable for a dog with a radiant personality.
  2. Cimarron: Named after the Cimarron River, perfect for a dog that loves to explore.
  3. Denali: Inspired by the highest mountain in North America, ideal for a majestic dog.
  4. Echo: Referring to the sound that echoes through valleys, suitable for a dog with a strong bark.
  5. Falcon: Inspired by the swift bird of prey, perfect for a fast and agile dog.
  6. Gizmo: A playful name inspired by the cleverness of Native American folklore, suitable for a clever dog.
  7. Hopi: Named after the Hopi people, ideal for a dog with a strong cultural connection.
  8. Iktomi: Named after the spider trickster in Lakota mythology, perfect for a cunning dog.
  9. Jicarita: Inspired by the Jicarita Apache, suitable for a strong and resilient dog.
  10. Kokomo: Named after the city in Indiana, but also inspired by Native American sounds, perfect for a dog with a fun personality.
  11. Lakota Star: Inspired by the Lakota people and the celestial bodies important in their culture, suitable for a dog that shines bright.
  12. Makya: Means “eagle hunter,” ideal for a keen and observant dog.
  13. Nanook: Means “polar bear” in Inupiat, perfect for a strong and protective dog.
  14. Orenda: Refers to spiritual power in Iroquois culture, suitable for a dog with a strong presence.
  15. Paiute: Named after the Paiute people, ideal for a dog with a strong desert connection.
  16. Quanah: Means “fragrant,” suitable for a sweet-smelling pup.
  17. Raven Black: Inspired by the mysterious bird in Native American folklore, perfect for a dog with dark fur.
  18. Sagebrush: Named after the desert plant, suitable for a dog that loves dry environments.
  19. Tatanka Wanbli: Means “buffalo eagle” in Lakota, ideal for a majestic and powerful dog.
  20. Waban: Means “east wind” in Algonquin, perfect for a dog that brings new beginnings.
  21. Xanthe: Inspired by the yellow color of the sun, suitable for a dog with a bright personality.
  22. Yakima: Named after the Yakima people, ideal for a dog with a strong connection to the land.
  23. Zuni Blue: A playful mix of the Zuni people and a calming color, perfect for a peaceful dog.

Celebrating Heritage with Native American Dog Names

Incorporating Native American dog names into your pet’s identity not only honors the cultural richness of indigenous communities but also adds a layer of depth and significance to your relationship with your dog.

By choosing a name that reflects the beauty and wisdom of Native American traditions, you’re not just naming your pet—you’re sharing a piece of history and cultural heritage that will enrich both your lives.

Whether inspired by the majestic eagle, the resilient bear, or the mystical raven, these names serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of Native American culture.

Tips for Naming your Dog

Your dog’s name is a way to get your dog’s attention either for recall or to pay attention to a subsequent command.

Remember, the name your pick is a connection between you and your dog.  Make it a positive experience to name your dog for a lifelong relationship with your best friend.

Looking for more Dog Names?

Browse through our collections of dog names by personality, color, breed, country, and theme to find the perfect name for your dog.

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Last update on 2025-12-06 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API