Classic Names for Labrador Retriever

Max, short for maximum, suggests the utmost in qualities like loyalty and energy, fitting the Labrador's reputation as the ultimate family dog. This classic name aligns with the breed's all-around excellence, from its Newfoundland fishing origins to its role as a top gundog. It reflects the dog's maximal enthusiasm for life, supported by its high trainability and sociable nature that maximizes bonds with humans.

Short form of Maximilian, from Latin 'maximus,' meaning 'greatest.' Popular as a standalone name for its strong, simple appeal.

Bella, meaning 'beautiful,' celebrates the Labrador's appealing appearance and charming personality. This classic name suits the breed's graceful swimming form, aided by webbed feet and otter tail, and its beautiful coat colors from black to chocolate. It reflects the dog's inner beauty—its gentle, patient demeanor honed from St. John's water dog roots to modern family companion.

From Italian 'bella,' meaning 'beautiful,' derived from Latin 'bellus.' Gained popularity as a given name in the 19th century.

Charlie, meaning 'free man,' evokes the Labrador's free-spirited yet loyal nature. This classic name mirrors the breed's journey from free-roaming fishing aide in Newfoundland to disciplined gundog in England. It captures the dog's independent streak balanced with its biddable temperament, making it a free-thinking partner in adventures while remaining devoted.

Diminutive of Charles, from Germanic 'karl,' meaning 'free man.' A longstanding favorite for its warm, familiar sound.

Lucy, meaning 'light,' symbolizes the Labrador's bright, uplifting presence in families. This classic name reflects the breed's shining intelligence and its role in bringing light to dark situations, like search and rescue. From its origins in cold Newfoundland waters to warm homes, the dog's light-hearted energy and keen senses illuminate its versatile capabilities.

From Latin 'lux,' meaning 'light.' A popular name since medieval times, associated with Saint Lucy.

Duke evokes nobility, tying into the Labrador's refinement by English dukes like Buccleuch. This classic name honors the breed's aristocratic patronage that preserved its traits like the soft mouth. It suggests leadership and dignity, mirroring the dog's confident yet gentle nature developed from working stock to elite gundog.

From Latin 'dux,' meaning 'leader.' A title of nobility, used as a name since the 19th century.

Molly, a diminutive of Mary meaning 'bitter' or 'beloved,' contrasts sweetly with the Labrador's sweet disposition. This classic name reflects the breed's beloved status as America's top dog for decades. It captures the dog's endearing qualities, from its patient family interactions to its bitter-cold resistant coat from Newfoundland origins.

Diminutive of Mary, from Hebrew 'mry,' meaning 'bitter.' Evolved as an independent name in the 18th century.

Jack, meaning 'God is gracious,' is a classic everyman name fitting the Labrador's approachable character. It echoes the breed's humble origins as a fisherman's helper in St. John's, evolving to gracious retriever. The name reflects the dog's gracious temperament—forgiving, eager, and gracious in work or play.

Diminutive of John, from Hebrew 'Yochanan,' meaning 'God is gracious.' Common since medieval England.

Daisy, meaning 'day's eye,' symbolizes freshness and simplicity, aligning with the Labrador's bright, optimistic personality. This classic flower name evokes the breed's love for outdoor romps in fields, tying into its gundog history. It reflects the dog's sunny disposition, much like a daisy opening to the light, and its fresh start in England from Newfoundland roots.

From Old English 'dæges ēage,' meaning 'day's eye,' referring to the flower that opens in daylight.

Sam, short for Samuel meaning 'heard by God,' suggests attentiveness, fitting the Labrador's responsive training ability. This classic name mirrors the breed's role as a listening partner in fishing and hunting. It captures the dog's keen hearing and eagerness to please, traits refined from St. John's water dog to modern service roles.

Diminutive of Samuel, from Hebrew 'Shemu'el,' meaning 'heard by God.' A staple name for its approachable sound.

Maggie, diminutive of Margaret meaning 'pearl,' represents preciousness, suiting the Labrador's valued status in families. This classic name reflects the breed's pearl-like qualities—smooth coat, precious companionship from Newfoundland origins to global popularity. It highlights the dog's treasured role, with its gentle nature and high value in service work.

Diminutive of Margaret, from Greek 'margarites,' meaning 'pearl.' Popular since the Middle Ages.