A new study for National Dog Day (August 26) examining the UK’s top 25 trending pet names found that Barbie is the favourite choice for dogs so far in 2023, recording a 498 per cent increase in popularity.
Gathering popular searches for pet names throughout the United Kingdom over the last 12 months, the study by Buzz Bingo has shown that Brits are favouring topical pet names over traditional names. Included in the list are film references to the ‘Barbenheimer’ legacy, football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo and popular music artists.
A spokesperson for Buzz Bingo said: “Following the release of the blockbuster hit earlier this year, how did Ken fare in the list? Once again, he was in Barbie’s shadow, scoring just a 24% average increase. Maybe he isn’t Kenough, after all.”
Taylor Swift has also inspired dog-owners, with ‘Swift’ increasing by almost a quarter (22 per cent) and placing at number 25 on the list, following the success of her sold-out tour.
See below for the full top 25.
13. Drake
Drake places at number 13. Photo: Pexels from Pixabay. Photo: Pixabay
14. Flounder
Yet another name inspired by a recently-released film (The Little Mermaid) Flounder has placed at number 14. Photo: Hebi B. from Pixabay Photo: Pixabay
15. Ariel
Also inspired by The Little Mermaid, Ariel places just behinder Flounder at number 15. Photo: carah_ from Pixabay Photo: Pixabay
16. Willow
Willow is another nature-inspired name to appear in the top 25. Photo: Светлана Грачева from Pixabay Photo: Pixabay