Italian Dog Names

  1. Franca
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "free"
    • Description:

      One of the most attractive and unusual spins on the "Fran" franchise.
  2. Gian
    • Origin:

      Italian, diminutive of Giovanni
    • Meaning:

      "God is gracious"
    • Description:

      Gian sounds (almost) like John, so there's some potential for confusion, but the spelling makes it unmistakeably Italian. It could be a solution if longer names like Gianni and Gianluca aren't your style.
  3. Abramo
    • Origin:

      Judeo-Italian variation of Abraham, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "father of multitudes"
  4. Silvio
    • Origin:

      Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese form of Silvius
    • Meaning:

      "wood, forest"
    • Description:

      A shiny and sylvan choice, this sleek yet spirited name feels familiar yet is rarely used.
  5. Biaggio
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Blaise
    • Meaning:

      "one who stutters or lisps"
    • Description:

      Surprising relative of the French saints' name Blaise, which is definitely easier on the English ear than vowelsome Italian version. Also spelled BIAGIO.
  6. Isotta
    • Description:

      Isotta is a feminine Italian name, essentially the Italian form of Isolde or Iseult from Arthurian legend. The name derives from a Celtic origin, though its exact meaning remains disputed, with some suggesting connections to 'ice' or 'fair' in proto-Germanic languages. Isotta features prominently in the medieval romance of Tristan and Isolde, giving it literary and cultural significance. In Italy, the name gained additional recognition through connection with the luxury car manufacturer Isotta Fraschini. While never extremely common, Isotta maintains a timeless elegance with its flowing vowels and distinctive Italian character. The name conveys a sense of classical beauty, romance, and cultural sophistication for those seeking a name with European heritage.
  7. Amedeo
    • Origin:

      Italian form of Amadeus
    • Meaning:

      "lover of God"
    • Description:

      This euphonious Italian Italian name for boys, often associated with the painter Modigliani, makes a recommended creative choice. The Spanish tend to spell it Amadeo.
  8. Cipriano
    • Origin:

      Latin
    • Meaning:

      "from Cyprus"
    • Description:

      A saint and surname often heard in Italy.
  9. Enzio
    • Description:

      Enzio is a masculine name with Italian origins, possibly derived from the Germanic name Heinz or Heinrich, meaning 'home ruler.' Historically significant through Enzio (or Enzo) of Sardinia, the illegitimate son of Emperor Frederick II in the 13th century. The name carries an exotic flair with its distinctive 'z' sound and Italian resonance. Enzio projects strength and charisma, embodying a sophisticated European sensibility. While Enzo has gained popularity in recent years, Enzio remains a less common variant, offering uniqueness while maintaining the appealing sound. Parents drawn to Italian names with historical depth yet contemporary appeal might find Enzio particularly attractive for its balance of uniqueness and accessibility.
  10. Filippo
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Philip, Greek
    • Meaning:

      "lover of horses"
    • Description:

      As classic as it comes in Italy — Filippo was once common during the Renaissance, and today remains in the Top 25.
  11. Letizia
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Letitia
    • Meaning:

      "gladness"
    • Description:

      Letizia is a pretty Latin variation of Letitia; it's one of those Italian names for girls that makes the more familiar version feel less prissy and more appealing. Letizia was the first name of Napoleon's mother.
  12. Samuele
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Samuel, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "told by God"
    • Description:

      This classic Italian Samuel variation is just as compelling as the original, especially if you have Italian heritage.
  13. Gregorio
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Gregory
    • Meaning:

      "vigilant, a watchman"
    • Description:

      More dramatic, worldly, and energetic spin on Gregory.
  14. Gavino
    • Description:

      Gavino is a masculine Italian name derived from the Latin name Gabinus, which was associated with the ancient city of Gabii near Rome. The name can also be linked to the Latin word 'gavia' meaning 'seagull'. Gavino is particularly popular in Sardinia, Italy, where Saint Gavino, a Roman martyr, is venerated. The name has remained relatively uncommon outside of Italian communities, giving it a distinctive character. In Spanish-speaking regions, especially in parts of Latin America, Gavino appears occasionally as a traditional name. Its pronunciation (gah-VEE-noh) with the stress on the second syllable gives it a melodious quality that many parents appreciate.

  15. Vallea
    • Origin:

      Italian
    • Meaning:

      "Valley"
    • Description:

      This Italian word name, meaning (as you would suspect) valley, has a rolling soft sound to it. The "lay-a" sound also perfectly complements the current fashion for similar names such as Rhea, Layla and May/Mae.
  16. Dominica
    • Origin:

      Italian, feminine variation of Dominic
    • Meaning:

      "belonging to the Lord"
    • Description:

      Fashionably Continental and much fresher than Dominique, though it's been used since the Middle Ages. Dominica can be spelled any number of ways, from Dominika to Domenica, but we prefer this version.
  17. Riccardo
    • Description:

      Riccardo is the Italian form of Richard, a masculine name with Germanic origins meaning 'powerful ruler' or 'strong king.' Derived from the elements 'ric' (ruler, power) and 'hard' (strong, brave), Riccardo carries the same noble meaning as its English counterpart. The name has been popular throughout Italian history and culture, with notable bearers including composers and artists. Riccardo has a romantic, melodic quality with its rolled 'r' and flowing syllables that embody Italian linguistic charm. While most common in Italy and Italian-speaking regions, the name has gained international recognition. The name projects strength combined with artistic flair, making it appealing to parents who appreciate Italian culture or seek a distinguished name with historical depth.
  18. Biagio
    • Description:

      Biagio is a masculine Italian name derived from the Latin 'Blasius,' which has roots in the Latin word 'blaesus' meaning 'lisping' or 'stammering.' Despite this etymology, the name has been honored for centuries due to its association with Saint Blaise (San Biagio in Italian), a 4th-century Armenian bishop and martyr who is venerated as the patron saint of throat ailments. Traditionally popular in Italy, particularly in southern regions like Sicily and Calabria, Biagio has a melodic quality characteristic of Italian names. Though uncommon outside of Italian communities, it retains strong cultural connections and family significance for those of Italian heritage. The name has a distinctive charm with its blend of strength and musicality.
  19. Corrado
    • Origin:

      Italian variation of Conrad
    • Description:

      A Latinate name with a lot of dash and bravado.
  20. Elvera
    • Description:

      Elvera is a feminine name with Romance language origins, likely deriving from variants of names like Elvira or Vera. The name has Spanish and Italian connections, possibly meaning 'truth' or 'true one' if related to Vera, or 'all-protecting' if stemming from Germanic elements in Elvira. Elvera enjoyed modest popularity in the United States during the early 20th century but has since become uncommon. The name carries a vintage charm with its flowing syllables and musical quality. Elvera balances uniqueness with familiarity, as its structure feels recognizable despite its rarity. In many Latin communities, the name maintains cultural significance while offering an alternative to more common choices.