Hepper is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

100+ Italian Dog Names: Fantastico & Bellisimo Ideas (with Meanings)

Nicole Cosgrove Profile Picture

By Nicole Cosgrove

Italian Dog Names

When it’s time to choose a dog name, why not consider sunny Italy? All kinds of classic names come from the boot-shaped country, along with plenty of funny names and Italian words with appropriate meanings. Plus, several breeds of dogs also have Italian roots, like the Cane Corso.

To help you find the perfect Italian dog name for your fluffy boy or girl, we’ve put together this list of over 100 options. Keep reading to find your best friend’s new Italian name!

Divider 3

Female Italian Dog Names

  • Verona
  • Giovanna
  • Roma
  • Anna
  • Lunetta
  • Cara
  • Antoinetta
  • Carmela
  • Elena
  • Trista
  • Margherita
  • Gianna
  • Venice
  • Belinda
  • Virginia
  • Rita
  • Bianca
  • Gemma
  • Natala
  • Rosa
  • Pippa
  • Roma
  • Beatrice
  • Paola
  • Liliana
  • Anita
  • Maria
  • Gabriela
Dog eating spaghetti
Photo Credit: 137859, Pixabay

Male Italian Dog Names

  • Davide
  • Bruno
  • Sergio
  • Rocco
  • Naples
  • Enzo
  • Leonardo
  • Brando
  • Lugo
  • Carlo
  • Romano
  • Marco
  • Renzo
  • Aldo
  • Alfredo
  • Faust
  • Ernesto
  • Lorenzo
  • Stefano
  • Remo
  • Matteo
  • Paulo
  • Flavio
  • Fabio
  • Angelo
  • Lucca
  • Primo
  • Vinny
Maltese on beach
Image Credit: suju, Pixabay

Funny Italian Dog Names

There’s something about the Italian language that’s pretty hilarious. From foods like Salami and Pizza to words like Presto and Tempo, there’s a funny Italian dog name for any pup. Here’s our list of the best options:

  • Piccolo
  • JWoww
  • Salami
  • Calzone
  • Presto
  • Mamma Mia
  • Carbonara
  • Scampi
  • Snooki
  • The Situation
  • Pizza
  • Valentino
  • Jersey
  • Tempo
  • Spaghetti
  • Orzo
  • Versace
  • Michelangelo
  • Pesto
  • Guido
  • Ravioli
  • Latte
  • Martini
  • Biscuit
  • Linguine
Cane Corso
Image Credit: agutti, Pixabay

Italian Dog Names for Cane Corsos

Do you have a Cane Corso? These affectionate Italian dogs have been serving as bodyguards since the Roman Empire. Here are some of our favorite Italian names for Cane Corso dogs:

  • Brutus
  • Vito
  • Felix
  • Tito
  • Juno
  • Albus
  • Orso
  • Alessandra
  • Dino
  • Cesar
  • Bestia
  • Nero
  • Mimi
Neapolitan Mastiff dog jowl_Mary Swift_shutterstock
Image Credit: Mary Swift, Shutterstock

Italian Dog Names with Meanings

Instead of a regular name, why not consider an Italian word with a fun meaning? Here are the best Italian dog names with meanings.

  • Baffi — Moustache
  • Pane — Bread
  • Nero — Black
  • Pazzo — Crazy
  • Gigante — Giant
  • Bianca — White
  • Bambino — Baby
  • Grazie — Thank You
  • Osso — Bone
  • Misto — Mixed
  • Dolce — Sweet
  • Cane — Dog
  • Pelo — Fur
  • Volante — Flying
  • Pozza — Puddle
  • Caos — Chaos
  • Cielo — Sky
  • Tino — Tiny
Lagotto Romagnolo
Image Credit: Cemmerton, Pixabay

Finding the Right Italian Name for Your Dog

No matter what breed your dog is, there are tons of fun Italian dog names. From classics like Anita and Lorenzo to funny options like Linguine and Piccolo, you shouldn’t have any trouble finding your dog’s new name.

Need some tips? We suggest you choose a name that’s easy to say (and yell). If you need to shout it at the dog park, will it be recognizable and distinctive? Too much of a tongue twister could have you and your puppy confused. Beyond that, think about what makes your dog unique—you’ll want a name that’s just as goofy or serious as your pup.

Tips for Naming Your Puppy

There are plenty of things to consider when selecting a name for your new puppy, but you don’t need to feel overwhelmed! We’ve put together this easy “how to name your dog” guide to keep it fun and simple and to help you make a selection that you’re more likely to love forever, the same way you’ll love your dog. 

  • Love the name you choose. Don’t settle for anything you aren’t in love with. 
  • Names that end with vowels are easier for dogs to learn. Dogs can distinguish frequency ranges higher (and better) than we can, so having the vowel ending adds an intonation that makes it very easy to hear and understand for your pup.
  • One to two-syllable names are way easier to say. Really long names are a pain, especially during training, so just keep that in mind if you find one you love. 
  • Avoid offensive or negatively connotated words for names. Would you be comfortable telling your vet or your neighbor your dog’s name? If not, it might not be the best choice.
  • Do your best to avoid names that may be confused with commands. 
  • Test out the name. Say it loud, say it soft, say it grumpy, and say it sweet. 
  • Think of the personality your puppy has (or is likely to have). Most dog breeds have specific qualities, so even before your puppy comes home, it may be easy to pick a name based on personality.
  • Pick a name and stick with it. Once you have the name, don’t change your mind. And don’t bring out the nicknames until your puppy feels confident with the official name (you don’t want a confused little furball). 
  • Have fun! 

See also:


Featured Image Credit: Tsezarina, Shutterstock

Related Articles

Further Reading

Vet Articles

Latest Vet Answers

The latest veterinarians' answers to questions from our database