109 Best Dog Names From Greek Mythology For Your Pet

Greek mythology isn’t only old tales. It’s also a great source of names for your dog. These names come with thousands of years of history, bravery, and some magic. Think about naming your dog Argos, like Odysseus’ loyal hound. Or pick Artemis for a fast, agile puppy, inspired by the goddess of hunting. The names range from powerful Zeus to Cerberus, the three-headed guardian. Myths change depending on the region and time.

Some say Athena was born from Zeus’ head. Others focus on her skills as a warrior. This blog will help you choose from gods, heroes, and even mythical creatures. For example, the Chimera was a fire-breathing mix of animals. You might like Heracles for strength or Odysseus for cleverness. Each name ties your dog to a legendary past.

Let’s get started.

Dog Names From Greek Mythology: Overview and Key Facts

Category	Description and Key Facts	Example Names and Meanings	Why It Fits a Dog
Gods and Titans	They ruled the universe, with Titans coming before the Olympians. Zeus took over from the Titans and then led the Olympians.	– Zeus (sky god, “bright”)<br>- Rhea (Titaness, “flow”)	Great for big, noble dogs like Mastiffs.
Heroes	These were humans or part-gods famous for courage. Tales change depending on the area. For example, Heracles’ tasks weren’t the same everywhere.	– Odysseus (“wrathful”)<br>- Atalanta (“balanced”)	Best for quick or smart dogs like Border Collies.
Beasts	Many were mixed creatures with important jobs. Cerberus protected the Underworld, while the Chimera had parts of a lion, goat, and snake.	– Cerberus (“spotted”)<br>- Pegasus (“spring”)	Works well for guard dogs or unusual breeds like Dalmatians.
Places/Symbols	These include holy places or important items. Delphi had Apollo’s oracle, and the Lyre stood for harmony.	– Delphi (“dolphin”)<br>- Aegis (Zeus’ shield)	Good for calm or graceful dogs like Greyhounds.

Note: Pronunciations vary (e.g., “Rhea” = REE-uh or RAY-uh in dialects).

50 Mighty Gods and Titans

The gods and Titans from Greek mythology make great strong names for dogs. These names represent different qualities like power, loyalty, or cleverness. Here are 50 options from the Olympian rulers to the ancient Titans:

1. Zeus – King of the gods who controlled lightning. Works well for bossy breeds like German Shepherds.
2. Hera – Queen of the gods who protected marriage. Fits dignified female dogs.
3. Poseidon – Ruled the sea and caused earthquakes. Great for breeds that love water, like Labradors.
4. Demeter – Goddess of farming and harvest. Good for dogs with a calm, nurturing personality.
5. Athena – Goddess of both wisdom and war. Perfect for smart breeds such as Border Collies.
6. Apollo – God of the sun, music, and predictions. Suits energetic, vocal dogs.
7. Artemis – Goddess of hunting and wild places. Ideal for independent breeds like Shiba Inus.
8. Ares – The war god. Best for protective dogs such as Rottweilers.
9. Aphrodite – Goddess of love and beauty. Fits affectionate, elegant dogs.
10. Hephaestus – God of metalworking and fire. Works for tough breeds like Bulldogs.
11. Hades – King of the Underworld. A strong name for a dog with a mysterious or imposing presence.
12. Hermes – Messenger of the gods, known for speed and cunning. Excellent for agile and quick-witted dogs.
13. Dionysus – God of wine, festivity, and ecstasy. A fun name for a playful and spirited dog.
14. Hestia – Goddess of the hearth and home. Suits a loyal and comforting companion.
15. Cronus – Leader of the Titans, father of Zeus. Represents power and an old soul.
16. Rhea – Titaness mother of the Olympians, known for her gentle nature. Good for a maternal and kind dog.
17. Oceanus – Titan god of the great river Okeanos, the source of all fresh water. Fitting for a dog that loves all kinds of water.
18. Tethys – Titaness of fresh water, wife of Oceanus. A gentle yet powerful name for a female dog.
19. Hyperion – Titan god of heavenly light, watchfulness, and wisdom. Suits an alert and intelligent dog.
20. Theia – Titaness of sight and the shining light of the clear blue sky. A name for a dog with keen eyes or a bright personality.
21. Coeus – Titan of intellect and the inquisitive mind. Ideal for a curious and thoughtful dog.
22. Phoebe – Titaness of prophecy and intellect, associated with the moon. A mystical name for an intuitive female dog.
23. Crius – Titan god of heavenly constellations. A unique name for a dog that is a star in your life.
24. Mnemosyne – Titaness of memory. For a dog who never forgets a trick or a loved one.
25. Themis – Titaness of divine law and order. Suits a well-behaved and just dog.
26. Iapetus – Titan known as “The Piercer,” father of Atlas and Prometheus. Represents strength and a pioneering spirit.
27. Atlas – Titan who bore the heavens on his shoulders. A name for a strong and enduring dog.
28. Prometheus – Titan known for his cleverness and for gifting fire to mankind. Perfect for a highly intelligent and resourceful dog.
29. Epimetheus – Titan known as “Hindsight,” brother of Prometheus. A quirky name for a dog who is perhaps a little less quick on the uptake but lovable.
30. Helios – Titan god of the sun, who drove the sun chariot across the sky. For an energetic dog with a radiant personality.
31. Selene – Titaness of the moon. A beautiful name for a dog with a calm and luminous presence, perhaps with a light coat.
32. Eos – Titaness of the dawn. For an early-rising and cheerful dog.
33. Leto – Titaness mother of Apollo and Artemis, known for her motherly devotion. A good name for a gentle and loving female dog.
34. Persephone – Queen of the Underworld, also associated with spring. Fits a dog with a dual nature, perhaps both serious and playful.
35. Nike – Goddess of victory. A great name for an agile dog that excels in sports or a dog that has overcome challenges.
36. Pan – God of the wild, shepherds, and flocks, often depicted with goat-like features. Suits a rustic, outdoorsy, or mischievous dog.
37. Eros – God of love and desire. For an irresistibly charming and affectionate dog.
38. Iris – Goddess of the rainbow and messenger of the gods. Perfect for a colorful or swift dog.
39. Morpheus – God of dreams. A fitting name for a dog that loves to sleep or has a dreamy disposition.
40. Janus – God of beginnings, endings, and doorways. Good for a dog adopted at a new chapter in life.
41. Nemesis – Goddess of retribution and vengeance. For a dog with a strong sense of justice or a very determined personality.
42. Tyche – Goddess of fortune and luck. A lovely name for a dog that brought good fortune.
43. Astraeus – Titan god of dusk, stars, and planets, and the art of astrology. For a dog loved “to the stars and back.”
44. Pallas – Titan god of warcraft and the military campaign. A strong, less common alternative to Ares.
45. Perses – Titan god of destruction. For a dog with a powerful or perhaps endearingly destructive (as a puppy!) nature.
46. Styx – A Titan goddess and the river that formed the boundary between Earth and the Underworld. A mystical and powerful name.
47. Metis – Titaness of wisdom, prudence, and deep thought. An excellent name for a very clever female dog.
48. Asteria – Titaness of falling stars and nighttime divinations. A beautiful name for a dog adopted at night or one that shines brightly.
49. Boreas – God of the north wind, bringer of winter. Suits a dog that loves the cold or has a “cool” demeanor.
50. Nyx – Primordial goddess of the night. A powerful and evocative name for a dark-coated or mysterious dog.

Note: Some names had different versions depending on location, like how “Hades” was sometimes called Plouton.

30 Famous Heroes and Humans

Greek mythology’s human heroes provide great naming options for dogs. These famous characters represent traits like bravery, loyalty, and adventure. You’ll find everything from strong warriors to clever tricksters in this list:

1. Achilles – Greatest Greek warrior. Works best for fast, powerful dogs like Greyhounds.
2. Odysseus – Known for his clever plans during the Odyssey. Great for smart breeds that figure things out.
3. Heracles (Hercules) – The legendary strongman. Ideal for muscular, tough-looking dogs.
4. Perseus – Defeated Medusa, which makes it good for determined, focused breeds.
5. Theseus – Famous king of Athens. Fits dogs with noble personalities.
6. Jason – Led the Argonauts on their quest. Perfect for adventurous, curious pups.
7. Bellerophon – Rode Pegasus. Works well for energetic, ambitious dogs.
8. Atalanta – Swift female hunter. Great for fast, athletic girl dogs.
9. Hector – Noble prince of Troy. Suits loyal, protective breeds.
10. Ajax – Powerful warrior. Strong name for large guardian dogs.
11. Diomedes – A brave and skilled warrior in the Trojan War, favored by Athena. Excellent for an intelligent and courageous dog.
12. Patroclus – Achilles’ most beloved companion, known for his kindness and loyalty. A wonderful name for a devoted and gentle friend.
13. Nestor – Wise old counselor of the Greeks at Troy. Suits an older, sage-like dog or one with a calm demeanor.
14. Orpheus – Legendary musician and poet whose music could charm all living things. Perfect for a dog with a melodious bark or a captivating personality.
15. Castor – One of the Dioscuri twins, known for his horsemanship. A good name for an agile and spirited dog.
16. Pollux – The other Dioscuri twin, renowned for his boxing skills; granted immortality. Represents resilience and a strong bond (if you have two dogs!).
17. Leonidas – King of Sparta, famous for his bravery at the Battle of Thermopylae. Ideal for a fearless and protective dog.
18. Daedalus – Brilliant inventor and craftsman, creator of the Labyrinth. Suits a clever and resourceful dog.
19. Icarus – Son of Daedalus, known for flying too close to the sun. For an adventurous, perhaps sometimes reckless, but endearing pup.
20. Paris – Prince of Troy whose elopement with Helen started the Trojan War. A name for a strikingly handsome or charming dog.
21. Menelaus – King of Sparta, husband of Helen. Represents steadfastness and determination.
22. Agamemnon – King of Mycenae and leader of the Greek forces in the Trojan War. A commanding name for a natural leader.
23. Cadmus – Founder and first king of Thebes, known for introducing the alphabet. Suits an intelligent dog that learns quickly.
24. Meleager – A hero who led the Calydonian Boar hunt. Good for a brave hunting breed or a dog with a strong prey drive.
25. Penthesilea – An Amazonian queen who fought in the Trojan War. A fierce and noble name for a strong female dog.
26. Hippolyta – Another Amazonian queen, owner of a magical girdle. Represents strength, leadership, and feminine power.
27. Adonis – A youth of remarkable beauty, loved by Aphrodite. Perfect for an exceptionally handsome and charming male dog.
28. Narcissus – A hunter known for his extraordinary beauty. For a dog that definitely knows how good-looking it is!
29. Pygmalion – A sculptor who fell in love with a statue he carved which was then brought to life. Represents devotion and the power of love.
30. Tiresias – A blind prophet of Apollo, known for his clairvoyance. A unique name for an intuitive or perceptive dog.

Note: Some heroes have Roman versions with different stories, like Heracles/Hercules.

20 Magical Beasts and Monsters

Greek mythology’s fantastic creatures give you some really strong, unusual name ideas for dogs. These include creatures that combine different animals and strong protectors from the myths. Each name reflects special qualities or appearances:

Here are 20 magical beasts and monsters from Greek mythology, offering some truly strong and unusual name ideas for your canine companion:

1. Cerberus – Three-headed Underworld guard. Works great for dogs that guard their space well.
2. Pegasus – Divine winged horse, which makes it good for breeds that move gracefully and fast.
3. Chimera – Lion-goat-serpent mix that breathed fire. Fits dogs with unique looks or strong personalities.
4. Griffin (Gryphon) – Part eagle, part lion. Ideal for noble breeds that watch their surroundings.
5. Sphinx – Lion with a woman’s head who asked riddles. Good for smart, mysterious dogs.
6. Minotaur – Bull-headed creature from the labyrinth. Strong name for powerful, determined breeds.
7. Nemean Lion – Lion that couldn’t be harmed by ordinary weapons. Perfect for tough, resilient dogs.
8. Hydra – Snake that grew more heads when cut. Suits energetic dogs that keep going.
9. Harpy – Winged spirits of storm winds, known for snatching things. Works for vocal, active dogs, or those who like to “steal” socks!
10. Centaur – Half human, half horse, often depicted as wild and wise. Great for independent, strong breeds with a touch of untamed spirit.
11. Cyclops – Giant one-eyed beings, known for their strength and craftsmanship. A strong name for a large, perhaps somewhat clumsy, but powerful dog.
12. Scylla – A fearsome sea monster with multiple dog-like heads. An edgy name for a dog with a surprisingly loud bark or a formidable presence.
13. Charybdis – A sea monster that created giant whirlpools. For a dog with an insatiable appetite or boundless energy.
14. Orthrus – A two-headed dog that guarded Geryon’s cattle, slain by Heracles. A unique choice for a guard dog, or a dog with a “split” personality (e.g., fierce bark, but gentle heart).
15. Empusa – A shape-shifting female demigod or monster, sometimes depicted with a bronze leg. For a dog with a unique marking or a surprisingly tricky nature.
16. Ladon – The serpent-like dragon that guarded the golden apples in the Garden of the Hesperides. An excellent name for a protective dog that guards its home or “treasures” (toys).
17. Phoenix – A mythical bird that regenerates or is otherwise born again from ashes. A beautiful name for a rescue dog given a new lease on life, or a dog with a fiery spirit.
18. Satyr – Companions of Dionysus, part human, part goat, known for their revelry. A fun name for a playful, mischievous, and earthy dog.
19. Siren – Creatures whose enchanting songs lured sailors to their doom. For a dog with an irresistible “song” (bark or howl) or a captivating personality.
20. Argus Panoptes (Argus) – A giant with a hundred eyes, a vigilant watchman. Perfect for an alert and watchful dog that doesn’t miss a thing.

Note: Some creatures appear differently in various myths, like the Chimera.

9 Well-Known Places and Symbols

Greek mythology’s sacred places and long-lasting symbols give you names with deep connections to old myths. These locations and emblems stand for strength, secrets, and godly approval:

1. Olympus – Home of the gods. Works well for dogs with royal bearing.
2. Delphi – Apollo’s prophetic sanctuary, which makes it good for dogs that seem to sense things.
3. Underworld – Hades’ underground kingdom. Fits dogs with dark coats or mysterious personalities.
4. Elysium – Paradise for heroes after death. Great for dignified, well-behaved breeds.
5. Acheron – The river known as the waterway of pain. Suits dogs that have overcome tough situations.
6. Labyrinth – Maze that held the Minotaur. Perfect for breeds that figure things out quickly.
7. Golden Fleece – The treasure Jason sought. Ideal for dogs with rare or valuable qualities.
8. Caduceus – Hermes’ messenger staff. Matches fast, alert breeds.
9. Aegis – Zeus’ protective shield. Works best for guard dogs.

Note: Some places had alternate names, like the Underworld being called Hades or Erebus.

Stories About the Most Popular Greek Dog Names

Each important Greek name comes from an ancient story. These are the myths that explain why these name options have lasted through history.

The Story of Argos: Odysseus’ Loyal Dog

In Homer’s Odyssey, Argos shows complete loyalty. First Odysseus leaves for the Trojan War, which lasts ten years. Then he spends ten more years trying to return home. During this time, his once-strong hunting dog becomes old, neglected, and covered in fleas. Argos lives on a pile of waste, eating only scraps – very different from his days as a valued pet.

This matches what Odysseus goes through, as both are not as strong as they used to be while waiting for Odysseus to come home. Their meeting lasts only a short time. Odysseus comes back disguised as a beggar after twenty years. While no person knows who he is, Argos reacts right away. The dog lifts his ears and moves his tail weakly in recognition.

In one of the most emotional parts of the story, Argos looks at his master one last time before dying. Homer shows Odysseus secretly wiping away tears, since he can’t show his feelings without giving himself away. Argos’ death has important story meaning. In a tale full of tricks and hidden identities, he’s the only one who recognizes Odysseus immediately.

His death also comes just before Odysseus fights to take back his home. The name Argos means “swift” in Greek, which doesn’t match the dog who waited without moving for years. Some versions add more to Argos’ story, but Homer’s original keeps it simple – a dog who appears in just one scene but becomes famous in mythology because of his faithfulness.

Cerberus: The Underworld’s Fierce Guard

Cerberus was Hades’ watchdog who made sure no one crossed the line. Most stories say he had three heads, though some writers gave him 50 or even 100. He had a snake for a tail and more snakes growing from his neck. His job was to keep dead souls from leaving the Underworld and stop living people from entering.

He looked like a mix between a Rottweiler and a hydra, and his presence showed how death can’t be undone. While some versions add dragon features, he always remained the growling guard of the world of the dead. There are two well-known stories that demonstrate what he could do.

For his 12th labor, Hercules had to bring Cerberus to the surface using only his strength, which proved even gods could be challenged. Orpheus used music to make him sleep so he could get Eurydice back, showing that determination could get past him. These tales reveal Cerberus had great power but still followed certain rules.

Key Traits of Cerberus:

• Parentage: His mother was Echidna (half-woman, half-snake) and his father was Typhon (a giant monster)
• Abilities: His spit was poisonous, he had great strength, and some say his heads grew back
• Symbolism: He stood for the line no one can cross between living and dying
• Pop Culture: While some versions make him cute (like Harry Potter‘s Fluffy), he was originally terrifying

Apollo’s Lyre: Naming Dogs After Godly Symbols

In Greek mythology, gods were strongly connected to their symbols – objects that showed their power and area of influence. Apollo’s golden lyre represented music, prophecy, and order rather than just being an instrument. Calling a dog “Lyre” or “Kithara” (an old Greek harp) would suggest grace and balance, which makes these names good for dogs that move gracefully or bark musically.

It’s similar to calling a fast dog “Arrow” after Artemis’ weapon, since mythological symbols give extra significance to names.

Here’s a chart showing which gods connect to which symbols and what dog names they inspire:

God/Goddess	Symbol	Dog Name Idea	Trait Connection
Apollo	Lyre	Lyra	Musical, graceful
Zeus	Lightning Bolt	Bolt	Energetic, powerful
Athena	Owl	Owlyn	Wise, observant
Poseidon	Trident	Trident	Strong, loves water
Hermes	Sandals with Wings	Talaria	Fast, agile

When we name pets today, we follow this same idea of choosing names that match their personality. Just as Apollo’s lyre stood for harmony, your dog’s name can have a connection to these ancient stories.

Picking the Right Greek Mythology Name

Now you know about these mythological names, so we can choose the right one for your dog’s special personality.

Matching Your Dog’s Personality to Mythological Figures

Dogs have different personalities that might match those of Greek gods and heroes. If your dog protects your home fiercely, they could be like Hera, who protected marriage and family. A clever dog that solves problems might show Athena’s clever thinking, while a dog that’s always energetic could act like Dionysus, who was always active.

Ancient Greeks commonly linked animals with gods, which means these pairings come from ancient beliefs, not just modern ideas.

These are the best mythological matches for common dog personalities:

• Protective/Guardian: Hera (family protector) or Cerberus (loyal guardian)
• Playful/Mischievous: Hermes (trickster god) or Eros (who made matches playfully)
• Independent/Stubborn: Artemis (huntress who loved wilderness) or Hades (who ruled the underworld firmly)
• Loyal/Devoted: Argos (Odysseus’ faithful dog) or Penelope (his patient wife)
• Strong/Commanding: Zeus (king of gods) or Athena (skilled battle planner)
• Swift/Athletic: Atalanta (famous huntress) or Achilles (best warrior)
• Gentle/Healing: Asclepius (god of healing) or Hestia (goddess of home)

We know these links are real because they come from written descriptions of these gods. When you name a protective German Shepherd Hera, you’re using a name with thousands of years of history behind it.

Unisex Names from Greek Myths

Greek myths have many names that fit well for any dog, similar to names like “Taylor” today. Phoenix comes from the bird that was reborn from its ashes, which works great for tough dogs. On the other hand, Dionysus (god of wine) suits playful dogs because he was linked to parties and fun.

Hermaphroditus was actually both male and female in myths, though the shorter version “Hermes” might be easier to call. Nature names like Gaia (Earth) or Oceanus (ancient ocean god) work for either gender, just like their elements in nature.

Interestingly, Artemis was a goddess but has a strong sound that many now use for male dogs too, just like in the original stories where she was independent and tough.

How to Steer Clear of Mispronouncing Names

Greek names might be hard to say at first, but learning the right way helps when you call your dog. Think about yelling “Per-se-FOH-nee” (not “Per-SEF-oh-nee”) at the park! The main trick is emphasizing the correct syllable: Zeus rhymes with “moose,” while Chaos is “KAY-oss” (not “chow-s”). With difficult names, try these easier ways to say them: Aphrodite as “Ah-fro-DEE-tee,” Hephaestus as “Heh-FES-tus” (skip the ‘a’), and Psyche like “SIGH-key” (silent ‘p’).

Even experts argue about some pronunciations, so don’t worry too much – your dog won’t care if you say “HER-meez” instead of the technically correct “HER-mays.” Important note: Names ending in “-e” (like Circe/”SIR-see”) always sound that last letter, unlike English words.

Why Greek Names Matter

These names from myths don’t just sound nice – they have hundreds of years of history behind them. Here’s why these ancient names still matter now and can give your dog’s name more significance.

Why Greeks Named Dogs After Heroes

When ancient Greeks named dogs after heroes, they did this not only to honor them but to give their dogs heroic characteristics. Similar to how we might call a dog “Champion” today, they picked names like Achilles or Odysseus to show bravery, loyalty, and smarts.

We know from old writings that hunting dogs often got noble names – Xenophon’s 4th century BCE hunting guide says names should be “short, easy to yell, and lucky.” They believed names had real power, an idea that appears in Homer’s poems where naming something gave it purpose. Many old tales show why these names mattered.

Homer’s Odyssey includes Argos, Odysseus’ dog who waited 20 years – the name means swift-footed in Greek. The hunter Actaeon had 50 hounds with meaningful names like Laelaps (“Hurricane”) and Pamphagos (“Devours Everything”). Even gods’ dogs got heroic names – Artemis called her hunting dog Aura (“Breeze”), which showed how fast it was. These weren’t random picks but careful choices that connected the stories to real life.

Dogs in Greek Myths and Their Names

Greek stories feature many notable dogs whose names tell us what Greeks thought was important. Take Odysseus’ faithful Argos (meaning “swift”) or the fearsome Cerberus (“spotted”) – each name described the dog’s character or job. Even less famous dogs had meaningful names, like Maera (“sparkling”), who became the star Procyon. They didn’t pick these names by chance, but chose them carefully, similar to when we call a fast dog “Bolt”.

Here’s how these ancient names could work for today’s dogs:

Mythological Dog	Owner/Context	Name Meaning	Suitable For Modern Dogs That Are…
Argos	Odysseus	“Swift”	Fast, loyal, patient
Cerberus	Hades	“Spotted”	Protective, intimidating
Laelaps	Various hunters	“Hurricane”	Energetic, unstoppable
Maera	Icarius	“Sparkling”	Bright, alert, vigilant
Orthrus	Geryon’s guardian	“Morning twilight”	Strong, territorial

These names show how Greeks saw dogs as embodying traits people valued – Argos for loyalty, Cerberus for protection, or Laelaps for energy. Even scary dogs like Orthrus had names that fit, with “morning twilight” showing his job guarding boundaries. The pattern across all these stories proves the names weren’t random selections, but part of a culture where names truly mattered.

FAQs

1. Are Greek mythological names suitable for all breeds?

Greek mythological names are suitable for all breeds, as their timeless meanings and versatility transcend size or appearance.

2. How do I pronounce difficult Greek names correctly?

Pronouncing difficult Greek names correctly involves breaking them into syllables and emphasizing vowels as in classical Greek (e.g., “Zeus” as “Zefs”).

3. Can I use these names for female and male dogs?

These names for female and male dogs are often unisex, as many Greek mythological figures transcend gender norms.

4. What if my dog doesn’t fit their mythological name?

If your dog doesn’t fit their mythological name, you can always embrace the irony or choose a playful nickname that better suits their personality.