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Japanese Dog Names with Meanings
Japanese dog names range from the very traditional (Pochi, Koro) to simple colors and nature words. Hachi comes from Hachiko, the Akita dog who waited faithfully at Shibuya Station, and is one of the most famous dog names in the world.
How to choose a dog name
Short names with a clear first sound are easiest for dogs to learn. Many Japanese dog names have two syllables, such as Hachi, Kuma and Koro. Avoid names that sound like your commands, such as a name starting with the sound of sit.
Breeds and names
Japanese breeds such as the Shiba Inu, Akita and Kai Ken often get traditional names like Hachi, Taro and Kuma. Small dogs often get food names such as Mochi, Anko or Kinako. A big, sturdy dog suits Gon, Tetsu or Taiga.
Names
| Name | Kana | Meaning | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hachi | γ―γ‘ | eight, and the shortened name of Hachiko, the Akita dog who waited at Shibuya Station | Any |
| Kuma | γγΎ | bear | Any |
| Pochi | γ½γ‘ | a very classic Japanese dog name | Any |
| Koro | γγ | rolling, a friendly traditional dog name | Any |
| Taro | γγγ | big son | Male |
| Shiro | γγ | white | Any |
| Kuro | γγ | black | Any |
| Maru | γΎγ | round | Any |
| Riku | γγ | land | Male |
| Sora | γγ | sky | Any |
| Ken | γγ | dog (η¬), and also a boy's name | Male |
| Tetsu | γ¦γ€ | iron | Male |
| Taiga | γγγ | big river | Male |
| Gon | γγ | a short, sturdy name | Male |
| Momo | γγ | peach | Female |
| Hana | γ―γͺ | flower | Female |
| Yuki | γγ | snow | Any |
| Mochi | γγ‘ | rice cake | Any |
| Kinako | γγͺγ | roasted soybean flour | Female |
| Ume | γγ | plum | Female |
| Sakura | γγγ | cherry blossom | Female |
| Ran | γγ | orchid | Female |
| Kai | γγ | sea | Male |
| Ryo | γγγ | cool or clear | Male |
| Leo | γγ | lion, a modern pet name | Male |
Questions
What are traditional Japanese dog names?
Pochi and Koro are classic old-fashioned dog names, and Kuma (bear) is also widely used.
What does Hachi mean?
Hachi means eight, and it is also the shortened name of Hachiko, the dog remembered at Shibuya Station.
Related pages
More: girl names Β· boy names Β· unisex names Β· names by meaning