Dog Names That Mean Strong, Brave, or Powerful

  1. Antero
    • Origin:

      Finnish variation of Andrew, English from Greek
    • Meaning:

      "strong, manly"
    • Description:

      The Finnish form of Andrew is featured in mythology as Antero Vipunen, a giant in Finland's national legend the Kalevala
  2. Swithun
    • Origin:

      English
    • Meaning:

      "strong or bear cub"
    • Description:

      Variously spelled Swithun or Swithin, and associated with St. Swithin's day, July 15th, which is famous as a weather predictor a la Groundhog's Day: supposedly, the weather on his feast day will continue for 40 days. This would certainly make a unique choice.
  3. Hercules
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "glory of Hera"
    • Description:

      Any boy with this name, a synonym for power via the Greek mythology figure, better be strong of body, and of psyche.
  4. Neima
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "pleasant, agreeable, likeable"
    • Description:

      One of the less attractive Hebrew choices.
  5. Bedelia
    • Origin:

      Irish
    • Meaning:

      "strength or exalted one"
    • Description:

      This fanciful Irish extension of Bridget is known here through the wacky Amelia Bedelia books for kids -- an association your child may or may not like.
  6. Gaby
    • Description:

      Gaby is a warm, approachable feminine name typically used as a shortened form of Gabrielle or Gabriela, names derived from Hebrew meaning 'God is my strength.' This friendly diminutive has gained popularity as a standalone name, embracing the modern trend toward casual, accessible naming. Gaby carries an international appeal, being recognizable across many European and Latin American cultures. The name conveys a friendly, unpretentious personality while maintaining a connection to its more formal origins. With its soft sounds and easy pronunciation, Gaby balances femininity with a certain casual confidence. It's become a popular choice for parents seeking names that feel both familiar and contemporary.
  7. Aimilios
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "strength"
    • Description:

      This male relative of the Emily family was borne by two Greek saints, one a fourth century martyr who destroyed pagan images and the other a ninth century bishop. Variations include Emilios and Aemilios. The Latin Aemilius, from the ancient family name, may be unrelated.
  8. Zoravar
    • Origin:

      Punjabi
    • Meaning:

      "strong, brave"
    • Description:

      Alternative spelling of Zorawar
  9. Benz
    • Origin:

      German surname
    • Meaning:

      "bright strength"
    • Description:

      The surname Benz derived from the personal name Berthold and was used as a short form of Bernhard and Benedict as well. A small number of American boys are given Benz as a first name each year, likely in homage to the luxury car brand Mercedes-Benz. The company was named after Karl Benz, inventor of the world's first practical automobile.
  10. Gauri
    • Origin:

      Finnish variation of Gabriel, Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "God is my strength"
    • Description:

      As a masculine name, Gauri is Finnish in origin and derives from Gabriel.
  11. Vigor
    • Origin:

      English from Latin
    • Meaning:

      "force, strength, liveliness"
  12. Romary
    • Origin:

      French variation of Romaric, German, and Scottish surname
    • Meaning:

      "famously strong"
    • Description:

      Romy lovers, here's a new one for you! Romary is a surname with French and Scottish roots and has historically been a masculine given name in France. It would be a great choice on either sex, but feels slightly more feminine with the -mary ending and Romy nickname.
  13. Jera
    • Origin:

      Variation of Gera, Slovene
    • Meaning:

      "strength of a spear"
    • Description:

      The alternate spelling of Gera that led to Jerca, which currently ranks in the Slovene Top 100.
  14. 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.
  15. Tsuyoshi
    • Origin:

      Japanese
    • Meaning:

      "sturdy, strong"
    • Description:

      A name most common among middle-aged Japanese men.
  16. Maoz
    • Origin:

      Hebrew
    • Meaning:

      "fortress, strength"
    • Description:

      Maoz is a symbolic name given to boys born at Hannukah because of the song "Maoz Tzur," "Rock of Ages," which is sung at that time.
  17. Kaimana
    • Origin:

      Hawaiian
    • Meaning:

      "the power of the ocean"
    • Description:

      Kaimana is one of
  18. Baldwin
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "brave friend"
    • Description:

      Writer James Baldwin could make this an inspirational choice for a child of either sex.
  19. Abelard
    • Origin:

      German
    • Meaning:

      "noble, steadfast"
    • Description:

      Abelard brings to mind Peter/Pierre Abelard, the great twelfth century Breton scholastic philosopher and theologian, who was equally celebrated for his tragic love affair with Heloise--one of the world's most famous love stories.
  20. Pipsa
    • Origin:

      Diminutive of Pipkka and Pirjo, Finnish
    • Meaning:

      "strength; exalted one"
    • Description:

      Pipsa is a nickname for the Finnish names PIpkka and Pirjo, both of which are variations of Bridget. In Finland, Peppa Pig is called Pipsa Possu.