185+ Italian Dog Names (With Meanings)

Whether you have an Italian breed or simply love Italy, choosing an Italian name for your dog is bound to be a fun and meaningful experience. Italian dog names are often long and romantic, reflecting the country’s passion and love for life. Some popular options for female dogs include Bella, Sophia, and Isabella, while male dogs can be named after famous Italian men such as Leonardo, Michelangelo, and Dante.

With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find a name that perfectly suits your dog’s personality and characteristics. So why not give your dog an Italian name and celebrate the beauty and culture of Italy?

Male Italian Dog Names

italian dog in vineyard

Italian dog names are a great way to give your furry friend a unique and meaningful name. Here are some male Italian dog names to choose from:

  • Alessandro: A strong and regal name meaning “defender of mankind.”
  • Angelo: A classic name meaning “angel” that is perfect for a sweet and gentle pup.
  • Antonio: A popular name meaning “priceless” that is fitting for a dog who is truly priceless to his owner.
  • Armando: A name meaning “soldier” that is perfect for a brave and loyal dog.
  • Bruno: A name meaning “brown” that is ideal for a dog with a brown coat.
  • Cesare: A name meaning “king” that is perfect for a dog who rules the household.
  • Dante: A name meaning “enduring” that is fitting for a dog who is strong and resilient.
  • Enzo: A name meaning “ruler of the house” that is perfect for a dog who likes to be in charge.
  • Fabio: A name meaning “bean grower” that is perfect for a dog who loves to dig in the garden.
  • Federico: A name meaning “peaceful ruler” that is fitting for a calm and gentle dog.
  • Francesco: A name meaning “free man” that is perfect for a dog who loves to run and play.
  • Giacomo: A name meaning “supplanter” that is fitting for a dog who loves to be the center of attention.
  • Gino: A name meaning “well-born” that is perfect for a dog who is elegant and refined.
  • Giovanni: A name meaning “God is gracious” that is fitting for a dog who brings joy and happiness to his owner.
  • Leonardo: A name meaning “brave lion” that is perfect for a dog who is courageous and strong.
  • Lorenzo: A name meaning “laurel-crowned” that is fitting for a dog who is a winner.
  • Luigi: A name meaning “famous warrior” that is perfect for a dog who is brave and strong.
  • Marco: A name meaning “warlike” that is fitting for a dog who is always ready for action.
  • Mario: A name meaning “manly” that is perfect for a dog who is tough and rugged.
  • Matteo: A name meaning “gift of God” that is fitting for a dog who is a blessing to his owner.
  • Maurizio: A name meaning “dark-skinned” that is perfect for a dog with a dark coat.
  • Nico: A name meaning “victorious people” that is fitting for a dog who always comes out on top.
  • Paolo: A name meaning “small” that is perfect for a dog who is pint-sized but full of personality.
  • Pietro: A name meaning “rock” that is fitting for a dog who is strong and solid.
  • Raffaele: A name meaning “God has healed” that is perfect for a dog who brings comfort and healing to his owner.
  • Riccardo: A name meaning “brave ruler” that is fitting for a dog who is a leader.
  • Roberto: A name meaning “bright fame” that is perfect for a dog who loves to be in the spotlight.
  • Salvatore: A name meaning “savior” that is fitting for a dog who is always there to rescue his owner.
  • Sergio: A name meaning “attendant” that is perfect for a dog who is always by his owner’s side.
  • Simone: A name meaning “heard” that is fitting for a dog who is a good listener.
  • Stefano: A name meaning “crown” that is perfect for a dog who is the king of his domain.
  • Tommaso: A name meaning “twin” that is fitting for a dog who is always by his owner’s side.
  • Ugo: A name meaning “mind” that is perfect for a dog who is smart and intelligent.
  • Valentino: A name meaning “strong” that is fitting for a dog who is powerful and muscular.
  • Vincenzo: A name meaning “conqueror” that is perfect for a dog who always comes out on top.
  • Vittorio: A name meaning “victorious” that is fitting for a dog who always wins.

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Female Italian Dog Names

three dogs in italian town

Italian dog names are a great way to give your pup a unique and meaningful name. Here are some female Italian dog names to choose from:

  • Bella – This name means “beautiful” in Italian and is a popular choice for female dogs.
  • Aria – Meaning “air” in Italian, this name is perfect for a dog who loves to run and play.
  • Gina – Short for “Regina,” which means “queen” in Italian.
  • Luna – This name means “moon” in Italian and is a great choice for a dog with a calm and gentle personality.
  • Alessia – A popular Italian name meaning “defender” or “protector.”
  • Giovanna – This name means “God is gracious” and is perfect for a sweet and loving dog.
  • Isabella – Meaning “God is my oath,” this name is a great choice for a loyal and faithful dog.
  • Lola – This name means “lady of sorrows” in Italian and is perfect for a dog with a more serious personality.
  • Nina – Meaning “little girl” in Italian, this name is perfect for a small and playful dog.
  • Sofia – A popular Italian name meaning “wisdom” or “knowledge.”
  • Talia – This name means “dew from heaven” in Italian and is perfect for a dog who loves to play in the rain.
  • Vita – Meaning “life” in Italian, this name is perfect for a dog who brings joy and happiness to your life.
  • Alessandra – This name means “defender of mankind” and is perfect for a strong and protective dog.
  • Giada – Meaning “jade” in Italian, this name is perfect for a dog with a unique and beautiful coat.
  • Lucia – This name means “light” in Italian and is perfect for a dog who brightens up your day.
  • Nicoletta – A popular Italian name meaning “victorious people.”
  • Siena – This name is inspired by the beautiful city of Siena in Tuscany and is perfect for a dog who loves to explore new places.
  • Valentina – Meaning “strong” or “healthy,” this name is perfect for a dog who is full of energy and vitality.
  • Aria – This name means “air” in Italian, and is perfect for a dog who loves to run and play.
  • Carmela – Meaning “garden” in Italian, this name is perfect for a dog who loves to be outside.
  • Gia – Short for “Gianna,” which means “God is gracious.”
  • Lia – Meaning “bearer of good news” in Italian, this name is perfect for a dog who always brings joy and happiness.
  • Natalia – This name means “birthday of the Lord” in Italian and is perfect for a dog born around the holidays.
  • Sara – A popular Italian name meaning “princess.”
  • Viviana – Meaning “full of life,” this name is perfect for a dog who is always full of energy and enthusiasm.
  • Aurora – This name means “dawn” in Italian and is perfect for a dog who loves to wake up early.
  • Carina – Meaning “dear” or “beloved,” this name is perfect for a dog who is loved by everyone.
  • Gina – Short for “Regina,” which means “queen” in Italian.
  • Lina – Meaning “tender” or “gentle,” this name is perfect for a dog with a calm and loving personality.
  • Nina – Meaning “little girl” in Italian, this name is perfect for a small and playful dog.
  • Serena – This name means “calm” or “peaceful” in Italian and is perfect for a dog with a gentle and easy-going personality.
  • Zara – Meaning “princess” in Italian, this name is perfect for a dog who loves to be pampered.
  • Bianca – This name means “white” in Italian and is perfect for a dog with a white coat.
  • Lola – This name means “lady of sorrows” in Italian and is perfect for a dog with a more serious personality.
  • Nicoletta – A popular Italian name meaning “victorious people.”
  • Stella – Meaning “star” in Italian, this name is perfect for a dog who shines bright like a star.
  • Verona – This name is inspired by the beautiful city of Verona in Italy.

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Dog Names Inspired By Italian Food

dog with pizza

Italian cuisine is famous all over the world, and it’s no surprise that many dog owners choose Italian food names for their furry friends. Here are some Italian food-inspired dog names to consider:

  • Biscotti – This crunchy Italian cookie is perfect for a dog with a sweet tooth.
  • Bruschetta – A tasty appetizer made with grilled bread and fresh tomatoes. This name is perfect for a dog who loves the outdoors.
  • Cannoli – A sweet Italian pastry filled with cream. This name is perfect for a dog who is sweet and playful.
  • Caprese – A simple salad made with fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. This name is perfect for a dog who is simple and elegant.
  • Focaccia – A flatbread that is perfect for sandwiches. This name is perfect for a dog who is strong and dependable.
  • Meatball – A classic Italian dish that is perfect for a dog who is meaty and hearty.
  • Minestrone – A hearty vegetable soup that is perfect for a dog who is healthy and strong.
  • Olive – A popular Italian ingredient that is perfect for a dog who is unique and flavorful.
  • Pesto – A sauce made with fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts. This name is perfect for a dog who is fresh and flavorful.
  • Salami – A type of Italian sausage that is perfect for a dog who is spicy and flavorful.
  • Tiramisu – A sweet Italian dessert made with coffee and cream. This name is perfect for a dog who is sweet and energetic.
  • Tortellini – A type of pasta filled with cheese or meat. This name is perfect for a dog who is small and cute.
  • Ziti – A type of pasta that is perfect for a dog who is strong and sturdy.

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Dog Names Inspired By Italian Cities

dog in venice

Italy is a country with a rich history and culture, and its cities are no exception. From the romantic canals of Venice to the ancient ruins of Rome, Italian cities have inspired people for centuries. Here are some Italian city-inspired dog names to choose from:

  • Venice – This name is perfect for a water-loving pup.
  • Rome – A strong and classic name for any dog.
  • Florence – A beautiful name for a female dog.
  • Naples – A great name for a dog with a big appetite.
  • Milan – A stylish name for a fashion-forward pup.
  • Pisa – A fun name for a dog who loves to lean.
  • Turin – A unique name for a dog with a regal demeanor.
  • Verona – A romantic name for a loving pup.
  • Bologna – A playful name for a dog who loves to eat.
  • Siena – A beautiful name for a female dog.
  • Genoa – A strong name for a dog with a big personality.
  • Palermo – A unique name for a dog with a bit of an edge.
  • Perugia – A cute name for a small dog.
  • Lucca – A charming name for a friendly pup.
  • Bari – A fun name for a dog who loves to play.
  • Cagliari – A unique name for a dog with a bit of a wild side.
  • Matera – A cool name for a dog who loves to explore.
  • Ravenna – A mysterious name for a dog who is a bit of an enigma.
  • Sorrento – A beautiful name for a dog with a sunny disposition.
  • Trieste – A strong name for a dog who is a bit of a loner.
  • Udine – A unique name for a dog with a bit of a mischievous streak.
  • Varese – A cool name for a dog who loves to run.
  • Vicenza – A classic name for a dog with a timeless quality.
  • Aosta – A unique name for a dog who loves the outdoors.
  • Brescia – A strong name for a dog who is a bit of a rebel.

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Dog Names Inspired By Famous Italians

dog in italy

Italian culture is rich with famous figures, from artists to politicians. These names can make great choices for your furry friend. Here are some Italian dog names inspired by famous Italians:

  • Leonardo – After Leonardo da Vinci, one of the most famous Italian artists of all time.
  • Galileo – After Galileo Galilei, a famous astronomer and physicist.
  • Dante – After Dante Alighieri, a renowned poet and author of the Divine Comedy.
  • Michelangelo – After Michelangelo Buonarroti, a famous artist and sculptor.
  • Raphael – After Raphael Sanzio, another renowned artist from the Italian Renaissance.
  • Marco – After Marco Polo, a famous explorer and merchant.
  • Verdi – After Giuseppe Verdi, a famous composer of operas.
  • Fellini – After Federico Fellini, a famous film director.
  • Pavarotti – After Luciano Pavarotti, a world-renowned opera singer.
  • Vivaldi – After Antonio Vivaldi, a famous composer of Baroque music.
  • Botticelli – After Sandro Botticelli, a famous painter from the Italian Renaissance.
  • Brunelleschi – After Filippo Brunelleschi, a famous architect and engineer.
  • Caravaggio – After Michelangelo Merisi da Caravaggio, a famous painter known for his dramatic use of light and shadow.
  • Donatello – After Donatello di Niccolò di Betto Bardi, a famous sculptor from the Italian Renaissance.
  • Galilei – After Vincenzo Galilei, a famous lutenist and music theorist.
  • Giotto – After Giotto di Bondone, a famous painter and architect from the Italian Renaissance.
  • Machiavelli – After Niccolò Machiavelli, a famous political philosopher and writer.
  • Monteverdi – After Claudio Monteverdi, a famous composer of Baroque music.
  • Rossini – After Gioachino Rossini, a famous composer of operas.
  • Tintoretto – After Jacopo Tintoretto, a famous painter from the Italian Renaissance.
  • Titian – After Tiziano Vecellio, a famous painter from the Italian Renaissance.
  • Umberto – After Umberto Eco, a famous writer and philosopher.
  • Valentino – After Valentino Garavani, a famous fashion designer.
  • Versace – After Gianni Versace, a famous fashion designer.
  • Zeffirelli – After Franco Zeffirelli, a famous film and opera director.

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Dog Names Inspired By Italian Designers

dog wearing designer collar

Italian fashion designers are known for their sophistication, elegance, and timeless designs. If you’re looking for a name for your stylish pup, why not draw inspiration from the world of Italian fashion? Here are some Italian dog names inspired by famous Italian designers:

  • Armani – After Giorgio Armani, known for his sleek and modern designs.
  • Bottega – After Bottega Veneta, known for their luxurious leather goods.
  • Bulgari – After the iconic jewelry and fashion brand.
  • Capri – After the island known for its high-end fashion boutiques.
  • Dolce – After Dolce & Gabbana, known for their bold and colorful designs.
  • Fendi – After the luxury fashion house famous for its fur and leather goods.
  • Ferragamo – After Salvatore Ferragamo, known for his innovative shoe designs.
  • Gabbana – After Dolce & Gabbana, known for their glamorous and sexy designs.
  • Gucci – After the iconic fashion brand that needs no introduction.
  • Lavinia – After Lavinia Biagiotti, daughter of the late Italian designer Laura Biagiotti.
  • Missoni – After the fashion house known for its colorful knitwear.
  • Prada – After the iconic fashion brand known for its minimalist designs.
  • Ralph – After Ralph Lauren, who has incorporated Italian influences into his designs.
  • Roberto – After Roberto Cavalli, known for his bold and exotic prints.
  • Salvatore – After Salvatore Ferragamo, known for his innovative shoe designs.
  • Sergio – After Sergio Rossi, known for his elegant and sophisticated shoe designs.
  • Stefano – After Dolce & Gabbana co-founder Stefano Gabbana.
  • Valentino – After the legendary Italian designer known for his romantic and feminine designs.
  • Versace – After the iconic fashion brand known for its bold and glamorous designs.
  • Vittorio – After Vittorio Missoni, son of the founders of Missoni.
  • Zegna – After Ermenegildo Zegna, known for his high-quality menswear.
  • Alberta – After Alberta Ferretti, known for her feminine and romantic designs.
  • Brunello – After Brunello Cucinelli, known for his luxurious cashmere designs.
  • Emilio – After Emilio Pucci, known for his colorful and bold prints.
  • Laura – After Laura Biagiotti, known for her feminine and elegant designs.

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Dog Names Inspired By Italian Cars

dog next to sportscar

Italian cars have long been known for their sleek design and high performance. It’s no wonder that many dog owners choose to name their furry friends after these iconic vehicles. Here are some dog names inspired by Italian cars:

  • Alfa – Named after the famous Italian car manufacturer Alfa Romeo.
  • Ferrari – A classic Italian car brand that is instantly recognizable.
  • Lamborghini – Another iconic Italian car brand known for its luxury and speed.
  • Maserati – A popular Italian car brand that produces high-performance sports cars.
  • Fiat – A well-known Italian car manufacturer that produces a range of vehicles.
  • Abarth – A performance-focused brand owned by Fiat.
  • Pagani – A luxury Italian car manufacturer known for its high-end supercars.
  • De Tomaso – An Italian car manufacturer that produced high-performance sports cars in the 1960s and 1970s.
  • Iso – A lesser-known Italian car manufacturer that produced sports cars in the 1960s and 1970s.
  • Bertone – An Italian car design firm that has worked with many car manufacturers over the years.
  • Pininfarina – Another Italian car design firm that has worked with many car manufacturers.
  • Ghia – An Italian car design firm that has worked with many car manufacturers, including Ford.
  • Bizzarrini – An Italian car manufacturer that produced sports cars in the 1960s.
  • Cizeta – An Italian car manufacturer that produced high-performance sports cars in the 1990s.
  • Lancia – An Italian car brand that produced a range of vehicles, including sports cars and luxury cars.
  • Osca – A lesser-known Italian car manufacturer that produced sports cars in the 1950s and 1960s.
  • Siata – An Italian car manufacturer that produced sports cars in the 1950s and 1960s.
  • Stanguellini – An Italian car manufacturer that produced sports cars in the 1950s and 1960s.
  • Zagato – An Italian car design firm that has worked with many car manufacturers and produced its own cars.
  • Barchetta – A type of Italian sports car that translates to “little boat.”

Further Reading