​
​
Advanced Search

Boy Dog Names That Start With R

  1. Ralphie

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Ralph

    • Meaning:

      "wolf-counsel"

    • Description:

      Ralphie is one of those short forms that have been out of style for so long it just might have a chance of coming back in, if you can get past seeing it as a desperate attempt to cute-ify a stodgy old man's name.
  2. Reilly

    • Origin:

      Irish

    • Meaning:

      "courageous"

    • Description:

      This more elaborate but not unfamiliar spelling of Riley feels oddly more feminine. Designer and Beatle daughter Stella McCartney has a daughter named Reilley. Still, Reilly or more common Riley is one name that's remained popular for both boys and girls.
  3. Rutger

    • Description:

      Rutger is a masculine name of Dutch and Germanic origin, derived from the elements 'hrod' meaning 'fame' and 'gar' meaning 'spear.' This powerful combination creates a name that historically conveyed the image of a famous warrior. The name has been used in the Netherlands and other Germanic countries for centuries. While not common in English-speaking countries, it gained some recognition through Dutch actor Rutger Hauer. The name carries a strong, distinctive quality with its unique sound and historical depth. Rutger offers parents a robust, European option that's recognized internationally yet remains uncommon enough to stand out.

  4. Rubin

    • Description:

      Rubin is a masculine name of Germanic and Yiddish origin that developed as a variant of Reuben or directly from the gemstone ruby. The name derives from the Latin 'rubinus' meaning 'red,' referring to the precious stone. In Jewish traditions, it connects to the biblical Reuben, Jacob's firstborn son, whose name means 'behold, a son' in Hebrew. Rubin has moderate popularity in German-speaking countries and among Jewish communities. As a surname-turned-first-name, it carries an intellectual, distinguished quality. The gemstone association gives Rubin connotations of value and brilliance. While less common than the spelling 'Reuben' in English-speaking countries, Rubin offers a concise, distinctive alternative with rich cultural heritage.

  5. Rollie

    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Roland, German

    • Meaning:

      "famous throughout the land"

    • Description:

      As its parent name Roland comes back into style (yep, it’s happening), could there be an uptick in baby Rollies? Certainly as a pet form.
  6. Rusten

    • Description:

      Rusten is a masculine name with varied possible origins. It may be a variant spelling of Ruston or Rustin, which developed from an English surname derived from place names combining 'rush' and 'town,' indicating a settlement where rushes grew. Alternatively, it could be connected to the Latin name Rusticus, meaning 'rural' or 'of the country.' The name has a rustic, earthy quality that appeals to parents seeking names with natural associations. While relatively uncommon in most English-speaking countries, Rusten has a distinctive sound that sets it apart from more popular choices. The name projects strength and individualism, with a hint of ruggedness. Rusten works well across various stages of life, from childhood through adulthood.
  7. Rongo

    • Origin:

      Maori

    • Meaning:

      "peace"

    • Description:

      Rongo is a masculine Maori name stemming from both the name of a god and also the Maori word for peace, "rangimarie", which itself is occasionally used as a feminine name. Rongo was the name of the Maori god of cultivated food and of peace. In Maori culture the two ideas are closely linked - food can only be cultivated and plentiful when communities are at peace and working together. If Ringo, Rango and Rocco can get a look in, why not Rongo?
  8. Rudo

    • Origin:

      Shona

    • Meaning:

      "love"

    • Description:

      In the Shona language of souther Africa, this simple and wearable boys' name means love.
  9. Rebop

    • Origin:

      Word name

    • Description:

      Chosen by one musician, Todd Rundgren, for his son, but unlikely to be emulated by others.
  10. Romero

    • Origin:

      Spanish and Italian

    • Meaning:

      "pilgrim to Rome, Roman"

    • Description:

      Romero is one of the less common variations of the stylish family of Rome-related names. Only 32 baby boys were named Romero in the US last year, versus nearly 5000 named Roman and 1100 named Romeo.
  11. Rube

    • Description:

      Rube is a masculine name that originated as a diminutive form of Reuben, a Hebrew name meaning 'behold, a son'. Historically, it gained recognition in American culture as a nickname and eventually as a stand-alone name. In the early 20th century, 'Rube' became associated with the cartoon artist Rube Goldberg, known for his illustrations of complicated gadgets. The name has also carried connotations of rural simplicity, as the term 'rube' came to mean a country bumpkin in American slang. Though never extremely popular as a formal given name, it maintains a vintage Americana charm. Its short, straightforward sound gives it an unpretentious quality that might appeal to parents seeking a name with historical character and simplicity.

  12. Radburn

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "reedy stream"

    • Description:

      Upper-crusty surname name.
  13. Rufo

    • Description:

      Rufo is a masculine name with Latin and Spanish origins, derived from the Roman name Rufus, meaning "red-haired" or "red-headed." This ancient name was relatively common in the Roman Empire and later spread throughout Europe. In Spanish-speaking countries, Rufo maintains its classical roots while offering a distinctive alternative to more common names. Though not widely used in contemporary naming, it carries a warm, friendly sound with its soft ending. Rufo has connections to various saints and historical figures, giving it a sense of timeless dignity. The name's brevity and straightforward pronunciation make it accessible across cultures while still maintaining its distinctive Mediterranean character.
  14. Reading

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "son of the red-haired"

    • Description:

      Inventive way to honor a redheaded ancestor, though most people would mispronounce it reeding, making it sound to some kids like a school assignment: Redding is a preferable spelling.
  15. Rugby

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "rook fortress"

    • Description:

      Rough and sporty, but too specific.
  16. Rron

    • Origin:

      Albanian

    • Meaning:

      "to live; to survive"

    • Description:

      Hearty name derived from the Albanian word rronj, meaning "to survive".
  17. Ring

    • Origin:

      Word name

    • Description:

      Cool and casual, a la humorist Ring (born Ringgold. ) Lardner.
  18. Rauno

    • Origin:

      Finnish, Estonian variation of Ragnar, Norse

    • Meaning:

      "warrior; judgment"

    • Description:

      Rauno originated in Finland as a variation of Norse names beginning with Ragn-, most notably Ragnar. The name is also heard in neighboring Estonia.
  19. Rawlings

    • Origin:

      English surname

    • Meaning:

      "son of Raul"

    • Description:

      Rawlings was a surname brought to England with the Norman invasion and has ties to the name Raul, which means "wolf counsel."
  20. Rojo

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "red"

    • Description:

      Colorful middle name choice.