Boston Pets Are Team Players: Sports-Inspired Names Reign in 2025

Boston’s love for sports extends far beyond Fenway Park and TD Garden—it’s showing up at dog parks, too. A new report from Rover.com reveals that the city’s pet parents are naming their furry friends after some of their favorite athletes and sports icons, with names like Brady, Bruin, and Celtic trending strongly in 2025.

According to Rover’s annual list of the most popular pet names in Boston, sports-inspired monikers have surged in popularity this year, right alongside other local favorites drawn from pop culture and nature. The report, which compiles data from millions of pet profiles nationwide, shows that Boston’s naming trends continue to reflect the city’s deep-rooted passion for its teams—and a healthy sense of hometown pride.

While classics like Bella, Luna, and Max remain perennial favorites, names like Brady and Mac, nods to star quarterbacks past and present, have climbed among Boston’s sportiest pets. The city’s hockey fans are showing their devotion too, with Bruin and Bergeron making the cut, a tribute to the enduring affection for one of Boston’s most beloved NHL captains. Cat owners seem to share the same spirit—names like Papi and Fenway have been spotted among Boston’s feline lineup.

Nationally, Rover’s data found that sports-themed pet names are on the rise across the country, but Boston’s list stands out for its loyalty to local legends. While other regions favored names like Messi, Jordan, and Kobe, Boston’s top picks remain true to New England’s storied sports culture. It’s a reminder that in this city, being a fan is more than a pastime—it’s part of the DNA.

The report also highlights a softer side to Boston pet owners. Alongside athletic tributes, the city saw a bump in names inspired by food and nature—Maple, Pumpkin, and Chowder all saw gains this year, proving that Bostonians have a playful sense of humor when it comes to naming their companions.

Rover’s annual name roundup doesn’t just offer a window into pet culture; it also reflects what matters most to the people who love them. In Boston, that means the Red Sox, Bruins, and Patriots are as much a part of the family as the dogs and cats themselves.

To see the full list of Boston’s most popular pet names—and how your four-legged friend stacks up—you can visit Rover’s 2025 Pet Name Trends report.