Female Names for Labrador Retriever

The name Willow evokes grace, resilience, and a connection to water, as willow trees often grow near rivers and lakes. This beautifully mirrors the Labrador's natural affinity for water and its elegant yet powerful swimming style, aided by its webbed feet. The flexibility of the willow branch can also symbolize the breed's adaptable temperament, which makes it an excellent family companion and a versatile service animal.

Derived from the Old English 'welig,' referring to the willow tree, which is known for its slender, graceful branches and its affinity for moist environments.

A delta is a landform created at the mouth of a river, a place where land and water meet. This name perfectly symbolizes the Labrador's dual nature as a master of both terrestrial and aquatic environments. It speaks to the breed's origins as a water retriever, whose webbed feet and 'otter tail' make it an exceptional swimmer. 'Delta' also implies a convergence, reflecting the breed's genetic history as a mix of various European working dogs in Newfoundland.

The fourth letter of the Greek alphabet (Δ), which is shaped like a triangle. The term was applied by Herodotus to the triangular landform at the mouth of the Nile River.

This name can be seen as a tribute to Cora, a Guide Dog in England who was granted the Freedom of the City of London, a prestigious honor. It also references an early painting of a St. John's water dog named 'Cora,' connecting the name to both the breed's modern service role and its foundational history. It embodies the Labrador's intelligence, grace, and dependable nature, which have been prized for centuries.

Derived from the Greek 'Korē,' meaning 'maiden.' It was popularized in the 19th century by James Fenimore Cooper's novel 'The Last of the Mohicans.'

A direct tribute to Salty, one of the heroic guide dogs who led their blind owners down more than 70 flights of stairs to escape the World Trade Center on 9/11. The name also perfectly captures the breed's maritime heritage, originating from the salt-sprayed coast of Newfoundland. It embodies bravery, unwavering loyalty, and the dog's innate connection to the sea, where its ancestors, the St. John's water dogs, worked tirelessly.

An English adjective meaning 'tasting of or preserved with salt.' It is also used colloquially to describe something related to the sea or sailors.

This name honors Roselle, a guide dog who, along with Salty, was awarded the Dickin Medal for her bravery in leading her blind owner to safety from the 78th floor of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. 'Roselle' represents the calm, focused, and intelligent nature of the Labrador under extreme pressure. It is a testament to the breed's profound capacity for service and the deep, trusting bond it forms with its human partner.

A diminutive of the name Rose, derived from the Latin 'rosa.' It evokes the image of the flower, symbolizing beauty and grace.

A tribute to Frida, the famous search-and-rescue dog for the Mexican Navy, who became a symbol of hope after natural disasters. This name represents the Labrador's incredible sense of smell, its tireless work ethic, and its crucial role in humanitarian efforts. It showcases the breed's bravery and its ability to work in chaotic environments, bringing comfort and aid to those in need. Her iconic goggles and boots made her a global hero.

A Germanic name meaning 'peace.' It was famously borne by the Mexican artist Frida Kahlo and, more recently, the heroic Mexican search-and-rescue Labrador.

This name can honor Sadie, a Labrador who received the Dickin Medal for detecting explosive devices in Kabul, Afghanistan. It represents the breed's exceptional olfactory abilities and its vital role in military operations, saving lives through quiet diligence. 'Sadie' embodies the courage and focus of a working Labrador, combined with the friendly and approachable nature that makes the breed so beloved. It reflects the breed's high intelligence and trainability for complex tasks.

A diminutive of the Hebrew name Sarah, meaning 'princess.' It became a popular independent name in the 19th century and remains a classic choice.

This name references a famous 1867 photograph of a St. John's water dog named 'Nell,' who belonged to the Earl of Home. The image is one of the clearest visual records of the Labrador's direct ancestor. 'Nell' represents the foundational stock of the breed, a dog that embodied the hardy, intelligent, and water-loving traits that were later refined by British breeders. It's a direct link to the breed's 19th-century roots and its prized 'soft mouth.'

A diminutive of names like Eleanor, Helen, or Ellen. It has been used as a standalone name for centuries and has a classic, gentle feel.

This name can be a nod to Liberty, the beloved Golden Retriever of President Gerald Ford, but it also stands as a powerful symbol of the freedom and joy that Labradors bring to their families. It represents the breed's role as a quintessential American family dog, a status it held as the most popular breed for over 30 years. The name embodies the breed's outgoing, friendly spirit and its adaptable nature, which allows it to thrive in a free and active lifestyle.

From the Latin 'libertas,' meaning 'freedom.' It is a powerful and evocative word that has been used as a given name, particularly in the United States.

A tribute to Sasha, a military detection dog who was posthumously awarded the Dickin Medal for her service in Afghanistan. She located 15 improvised explosive devices before being killed in an ambush. This name represents the ultimate sacrifice and bravery of working Labradors. It highlights the breed's incredible courage, its keen sense of smell, and the profound bond it shares with its handler, showcasing its stable temperament even in the most dangerous situations.

A diminutive of the Russian names Aleksandra or Aleksandr, meaning 'defender of mankind.' The name is unisex but is more commonly female in English-speaking countries.

A 'dory' is a small, flat-bottomed boat used in the Newfoundland fisheries, often launched from a larger schooner. The St. John's water dogs would have worked from these very boats. This name is a direct and authentic connection to the breed's maritime workplace. It evokes the rugged, practical, and water-centric life of the Labrador's ancestors, who needed to be small enough to fit in these boats yet strong enough to work in the cold Atlantic, aided by their insulating double coat.

From the Miskito word 'dóri.' It refers to a small, shallow-draft boat, particularly one used in the North Atlantic fisheries.

Teal are a species of small freshwater duck, a common quarry in waterfowling. This name directly connects the Labrador to its role as a premier gundog, a purpose for which it was refined by British aristocrats. It signifies the breed's exceptional retrieving skills, its 'soft mouth' for carrying game undamaged, and its love of water. The name also evokes the beautiful blue-green color, adding a layer of natural elegance.

The name of a type of duck, likely from a Germanic root. The word is also used to describe the rich greenish-blue color found on the bird's wings.

This name is often used for yellow Labradors, perfectly describing the golden, honey-like color of their coat. It also speaks to the breed's sweet, gentle, and affectionate temperament. 'Honey' suggests a warm and comforting presence, which aligns with the Labrador's role as a beloved family member and a patient companion. The name captures the breed's kind nature and its eager-to-please attitude.

From the Old English 'hunig,' the sweet, viscous substance produced by bees. It has long been used as a term of endearment.

A brook is a small stream, a gentle and pleasant body of water. This name beautifully captures the Labrador's love for water in a softer, more delicate way than 'River' or 'Ocean.' It suggests a sweet and gentle nature, which is a hallmark of the breed's temperament. The name connects the dog to the natural world it loves to explore, from gentle streams to wide-open fields, always with a happy wag of its 'otter tail.'

From the Old English 'broc,' meaning a small stream. It is a common element in place names and has become a gentle and popular given name.

Tilly is a cheerful and spirited name that means 'mighty in battle.' This creates a cute and slightly ironic contrast with the Labrador's famously gentle and non-aggressive nature. It can be seen as a playful nod to their 'battle' with the water when retrieving, or their mighty enthusiasm for playtime. The name has a friendly, energetic feel that perfectly matches the breed's happy-go-lucky and eager-to-please personality.

A diminutive of the Germanic name Matilda, which is composed of elements meaning 'strength' and 'battle.' It has become a popular standalone name.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Echo, a reflected sound wave, symbolizes the Labrador's responsive nature and echo-location-like scent tracking. This tech name ties into modern devices like smart assistants, reflecting the breed's role in responsive service work. From echoing calls in Newfoundland harbors to modern echo in training commands, it captures the dog's attentive and repeating reliability.

From Greek mythology, a nymph who could only repeat words. In science, it means reflected sound, used in sonar technology.

Aurora, the northern lights, evokes the Labrador's origins under Newfoundland's auroral skies. This scientific name reflects the breed's electrifying energy and colorful coats. It symbolizes the dog's illuminating presence, much like auroras light the night, tying into its detection work in dark conditions with keen senses.

From Latin 'aurora,' meaning 'dawn,' goddess of morning. Scientifically, refers to atmospheric light displays.

Scout suggests a dependable, adventurous, and intelligent companion, perfectly aligning with the Labrador's character. This name reflects the breed's history as a versatile working dog, first for Newfoundland fishermen and later as a gundog for British aristocracy. It captures the essence of a dog that is always ready for a task, whether it's exploring a trail or using its keen intellect and 'soft mouth' to retrieve game.

From the Old French 'escouter,' meaning 'to listen.' The term evolved to describe one who is sent out ahead to gather information, implying vigilance and reliability.

Bailey, meaning 'steward' or 'bailiff,' suggests a trustworthy and responsible character, which is a hallmark of the Labrador Retriever. This name reflects the breed's dependable nature, whether in its historic role as a fisherman's partner or its modern capacity as a service animal. The friendly and approachable sound of 'Bailey' also captures the breed's sociable and gentle temperament, making it a fitting choice for a dog known for its intelligence and eagerness to please.

Derived from the Middle English term 'baili,' which originally referred to a steward or an official in charge of a manor. It has since become a popular given name.

In Newfoundland dialect, 'tuckamore' refers to the dense, stunted stands of fir and spruce trees shaped by the harsh, salt-laden coastal winds. This name is a beautiful metaphor for the St. John's water dog, a breed forged and hardened by the unforgiving environment of the North Atlantic. It signifies resilience, toughness, and a deep, intrinsic connection to the rugged landscape of its origin, much like the breed's weather-resistant double coat.

A Newfoundland dialect term for stunted coastal conifers, likely a portmanteau of 'tuck' (a fold or pleat) and 'sycamore,' adapted to local vegetation.

The 'caplin' is a small fish that spawns inshore in Newfoundland, attracting the cod that were the foundation of the local fishery. The St. John's water dogs would have been intimately familiar with this event, which signaled the start of the busiest fishing season. This name is a direct link to the ecological and economic world that the Labrador's ancestors inhabited, a world where their retrieving skills were essential for their human partners' livelihood.

A French word for a small, smelt-like fish (Mallotus villosus) found in the North Atlantic and North Pacific, crucial to the Newfoundland fishery.

In Newfoundland, a 'flake' is a wooden platform used for air-drying salted cod. These structures were a central feature of every fishing community where the St. John's water dogs lived and worked. This name places the dog directly into the sensory landscape of its ancestors. It evokes the smell of salt and fish, and the daily rhythms of a life dedicated to the sea. It also suggests a reliable, foundational element, much like the breed's stable temperament.

From Old Norse 'flaki,' meaning 'a hurdle or platform.' In Newfoundland, the term specifically refers to a stage for drying codfish.

This name honors Major C.J. Radclyffe, the owner of the first yellow Labrador ever registered, 'Ben of Hyde,' born in 1899. While black was the original and dominant color, Radclyffe's kennel was pivotal in establishing the yellow variety as a recognized and beloved part of the breed. The name represents a key moment of diversification in the breed's history and the influence of dedicated English breeders. It also connects to the breed's intelligent and biddable nature.

An English surname derived from a place name meaning 'red cliff.' It is the surname of the breeder who registered the first yellow Labrador.

This name holds a secret, poignant significance in Labrador history. One of the last two known St. John's water dogs, discovered in a remote part of Newfoundland in the 1970s, was a male ironically named Lassie. Naming a Labrador 'Lassie' is a tribute to the very end of the breed's ancestral line. It represents the near-extinction of the foundational stock and honors the memory of the dogs that started it all, with their hardy double coats and innate retrieving drive.

A Scottish dialect word for 'little girl' or 'young woman.' It became world-famous as the name of the fictional female Rough Collie.

A Newfoundland slang term for a loss of sensation in one's backside from sitting too long, as in 'My arse is dunch!' This name is a funny, indirect reference to the Labrador's 'otter tail,' which can cause considerable damage (and numbness to onlookers) when it wags enthusiastically against furniture or legs. It humorously captures the effect of the breed's powerful, perpetually happy tail and its sometimes clumsy exuberance.

A Newfoundland dialect word of uncertain origin, used to describe a state of numbness, particularly in the buttocks after prolonged sitting.

This name is a playful nod to the Labrador's historical function as a waterfowling dog, bred to retrieve geese and ducks. It's also a common term for a silly or foolish person, which perfectly captures the goofy, fun-loving side of the Labrador's personality. The name humorously combines the breed's serious working purpose with its often comical and clumsy demeanor, especially during its energetic youth.

From the Old English 'gos,' the name for the waterfowl. The term 'silly goose' has been used for centuries to describe a foolish person.

A cute and affectionate diminutive of 'duck,' this name is a direct and playful reference to the Labrador's primary role as a waterfowling retriever. It highlights the breed's famous 'soft mouth,' a trait selectively bred to ensure they could carry birds gently without causing damage. The name is a sweet nod to the very purpose that brought the breed to prominence in England and defined its key characteristics.

A diminutive form of 'duck,' the common name for various species of waterfowl. It is often used as a term of endearment.