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Dog Names That Start With R

  1. Retta

    • Description:

      Retta is a feminine name with multiple origins. Most commonly, it serves as a diminutive of names ending in "-retta" such as Henrietta, Loretta, or Margaretta. The name has Italian roots as well, where it can be short for Margherita. Retta carries a vintage charm reminiscent of the early 20th century, when abbreviated names were fashionable. Though never extremely common in the United States, it experienced modest usage in the early 1900s before declining in popularity. The name has a warm, approachable quality with its soft sounds and brevity. In recent years, Retta has gained some recognition through comedian and actress Retta (born Marietta Sangai Sirleaf), known for her role on "Parks and Recreation." The name offers a blend of classic appeal and uncommon distinctiveness for modern parents.

  2. Rivera

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "bank, shore"

    • Description:

      An appealing Spanish surname that also works as an elaboration of cool nature name River.
  3. Richilde

    • Description:

      Richilde is a feminine Germanic name combining the elements 'ric' meaning 'power' or 'ruler' and 'hild' meaning 'battle' or 'warfare,' thus signifying 'powerful battle maiden' or 'strong female warrior.' The name has medieval roots and was borne by several noblewomen in European history, including Richilde of Provence, a 9th-century Queen of Western Francia. Despite its historical usage among aristocracy, Richilde has remained exceedingly rare in modern times. It carries a strong, regal quality with echoes of medieval chivalry and Germanic folklore. For contemporary parents, Richilde might appeal for its unique sound, historical depth, and powerful meaning, offering distinctive nickname options like Ricki or Hilde.

  4. 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.
  5. Renny

    • Origin:

      Anglicized variation of Irish Raithnait

    • Meaning:

      "little prosperous one"

    • Description:

      Used primarily for girls in Ireland, but sounds unisex to us.
  6. Rohmer

    • Origin:

      German surname

    • Meaning:

      "pilgrim; fame"

    • Description:

      Like other stylish choices from Roman to Romy to Romeo, Rohmer is a German surname that relates to both Roman pilgrims and the root word for fame.
  7. Rawley

    • Description:

      Rawley is a distinctive masculine name with English origins, derived from the Old English surname Raleigh, which referred to a deer clearing or meadow. Historically associated with the notable explorer Sir Walter Raleigh, the name carries connotations of adventure and boldness. Rawley has maintained a consistent though uncommon presence in English-speaking countries, particularly appealing to parents seeking a name with traditional roots yet distinctive character. With its strong consonant sounds and approachable two-syllable structure, Rawley strikes a balance between rugged and refined. The name has experienced modest increased interest in recent years as part of the trend toward reviving surname-style first names and names with historical connections.

  8. Rabia

    • Origin:

      Arabic

    • Meaning:

      "spring"

    • Description:

      Thought to be one of the ten angels who accompanies the sun on its daily course: a lovely image redolent of mythology. If you're looking for names that mean new beginnings, this makes an unusual and evocative choice.

  9. Rufa

    • Description:

      Rufa is a feminine name with ancient Roman origins. It derives from the Latin word 'rufus' meaning 'red-haired' or 'red-headed.' Historically, it was used as a descriptive nickname or cognomen in Roman times for women with reddish hair. The name has seen continued usage in Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese-speaking regions, though it remains relatively uncommon. Rufa has a classic, simple elegance with its two syllables and straightforward pronunciation. While never reaching mainstream popularity in English-speaking countries, the name has endured through centuries and maintains appeal for parents seeking a distinctive yet historically grounded name with Latin roots. Its connection to the natural trait of red hair gives it an organic, descriptive quality.
  10. Romer

    • Origin:

      German surname

    • Meaning:

      "pilgrim; fame"

    • Description:

      Romer might be considered a streamlined spelling of the German surname Rohmer, whose root means fame or renown, or a name that was given to those who made pilgrimages to Rome, which is related to Romeo and its brothers. With the style value of other Rome names from Roman to Romy, this is one we predict we'll hear more of.
  11. Rikku

    • Origin:

      Japanese

    • Meaning:

      "land, continent"

    • Description:

      The Japanese Rikku is familiar in the west as the name of one of the lead characters of the "Final Fantasy" video game series. Voted "hottest character," the fictional Rikku is a thief with a good sense of humor.
  12. Rron

    • Origin:

      Albanian

    • Meaning:

      "to live; to survive"

    • Description:

      Hearty name derived from the Albanian word rronj, meaning "to survive".
  13. Rustam

    • Origin:

      Persian

    • Meaning:

      "tall, strongly-built, brave"

    • Description:

      This variation of Rostam might be more English-friendly given its resemblance to the familiar Russ or Russell.
  14. Roshan

    • Origin:

      Persian

    • Meaning:

      "light, bright"

    • Description:

      The name of the sweet human baby in the film Ice Age, Roshan is a handsome Persian name that is the origin of the female name Roxanne, via its feminine form Roshanak.
  15. Rufina

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "red-haired"

    • Description:

      A feminine form of Rufus, which has potential in the current trend for ancient Roman names.
  16. Rangi

    • Origin:

      Maori

    • Meaning:

      "sky"

    • Description:

      In Maori and other Polynesian mythology Rangi or Ranginui was a god of the sky, husband of the earth goddess Papa or Papatuanuku. This strong and simple Māori name would make for a fresh celestial choice.
  17. Ruiseart

    • Origin:

      Scottish Gaelic

    • Meaning:

      "brave ruler"

    • Description:

      Scottish Gaelic form of Richard, also found as Risteard.
  18. Rugby

    • Origin:

      English

    • Meaning:

      "rook fortress"

    • Description:

      Rough and sporty, but too specific.
  19. Rodriguez

    • Origin:

      Spanish

    • Meaning:

      "son of Rodrigo"

    • Description:

      Common Spanish surname that can work as a first.
  20. Renault

    • Description:

      Renault is a masculine name with French origins, derived from the Germanic name Raginald, composed of the elements 'ragin' (counsel) and 'wald' (rule). While more commonly recognized as a prominent French automobile manufacturer founded by Louis Renault in 1898, Renault can also serve as a surname or given name. As a first name, it is quite rare in modern usage. The name carries connotations of French heritage, sophistication, and innovation due to its strong association with the automobile brand. In medieval France, variations of this name were more common among nobility, though today it represents a distinctive and uncommon choice for parents seeking a name with French flair and historical depth.