Released 28/12/2025
The rivalry between Daisy and Luna continues in 2025 with Daisy bumping Luna out of first place for most popular dog name after coming in second place last year. Meanwhile, Luna retains its stellar title of being the most popular cat name in 2025.
Cavoodles defend their crown as Canberra’s most popular dog breed for the fourth consecutive year and Domestic Short Hair remains the most popular cat breed in the capital.
“Thank you to everyone who registered or renewed their pet’s registration this year,” said Minister for City and Government Services Tara Cheyne.
Annual registration is compulsory for all cats and dogs over the age of 8 weeks and it’s free for owners to renew or update their registration details.
“Not only does pet registration provide an insight into the most popular pet names and breeds, more importantly, it helps reunite lost pets with their owners," Minister Cheyne said.
Whether they are dog or cat lovers, Canberra pet owners clearly have one thing in common – they love to read!
From popular fantasy worlds through to classics, Canberrans have brought beloved characters to life with their cat and dog names. Some of the standouts include Frodo and Samwise from Lord of the Rings, Geralt from The Witcher, Agatha Christie’s very own Captain Hastings, Mr Darcy from Pride and Prejudice and a special mention to Harry Potter inspired Albus Dumbleclaw.
Names inspired by gods and heroes from Greek mythology give us the impression a few Canberra book clubs read Percy Jackson this year! From the king of gods Zeus and his favourite daughter Athena to beloved hero Hercules and even Styx named after the river that winds its way through the underworld.
Of dogs currently registered in the ACT, the top 10 dog names and breeds for 2025 are listed below.
Names:
- Daisy
- Luna
- Charlie
- Coco
- Teddy
- Milo
- Bella
- Archie
- Ruby
- Molly
Breeds:
- Cavoodle
- Border Collie
- Dachshund
- Kelpie
- Labrador Retriever
- Golden Retriever
- Poodle
- American Staffy
- Jack Russell
- Groodle
Of cats currently registered in the ACT, the top 10 cat names and breeds for 2025 are listed below.
Names:
- Luna
- Milo
- Willow
- Jasper
- Daisy
- Leo
- Cleo
- Charlie
- Mochi
- Tiger
Breeds:
- Domestic Short Hair
- Domestic Medium Hair
- Ragdoll
- Domestic Long Hair
- Burmese
- British Shorthair
- Russian Blue
- Maine Coon
- Bengal
- Siamese
“Being a pet owner is an extremely rewarding experience, but it comes with responsibilities. Our pets rely on us to keep them happy, healthy and safe,” Minister Cheyne said.
“To keep your pet comfortable and cool over summer, ensure they have access to fresh drinking water and shade all day. It’s important to avoid walking your pet in the middle of the day during the warmer months. Early mornings and evenings are best to help protect your pet’s paws from burning. You can easily tell if the pavement is too hot to walk your dog by placing the back of your hand on the ground. If you can’t comfortably keep it there for 10 seconds, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws.
“If you’re enjoying a holiday away from home, arrange for someone to care for your pet while you are interstate or overseas. Don’t leave your pet unattended and ensure your pet’s carer is familiar with its feeding and exercise requirements, as well as their medical needs.”
More information on responsible pet ownership including registering your pet and a list of registered boarding kennels visit www.cityservices.act.gov.au.
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Tara Cheyne, MLA | Media Releases