Top Tennessee Dog Names that are Absolutely Darling

Tennessee is a beautiful southern state known for its country music, rolling hills, bbq, and southern charm. It’s no surprise that many Tennessee residents name their dog after their love of the state. If you also love the Volunteer State and are looking for Tennessee dog names, you’re in luck. Dogs are an important part of our families and there are so many possible names to choose from. So, grab a sweet tea and browse through this list of dog name ideas for your new best friend.

Tips on Choosing the Right Name

1. Consider your dog’s personality. You may love many names, but some might not feel like the most fitting name based on their personalities. Is your new pup high energy? Is your dog more laid-back or reserved?

2. “Sit on a Name for Awhile.” If you know you are brining home a new puppy soon, start making a list of names you like. Don’t write choices down just because they are the most popular name at the time. Make sure it is a name you actually love-not just something that is trending in that current moment in time.

3. Think about possible nicknames associated with that name.

4. I know this can contradict #2 but it depends on the person. Consider waiting until you actually get to meet your new dog. Sometimes, you will have a name picked out before you even know the dog because it is a name you have loved for a long time (and that is absolutely fine!) However, if you are struggling with coming up with the perfect name, wait until you meet your dog in person.

Tennessee Dog Names Inspired by Cities

Tennessee is home to many famous American cities that attract vast amounts of tourists every year.

Nash– a name inspired by the famous Nashville, Tennessee. Nashville is known for its iconic country music and southern charm.
Gatlin– inspired by Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Gatlinburg is the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This is the perfect name for any nature lover (one who especially loves the mountains).
Memphis– another name inspired by a popular Tennessee city. Memphis is known as the “home of the blues.” It would make a good name for any music lover’s new puppy.
Knox– inspired by the city of Knoxville, Tennessee. Knoxville is home to the University of Tennessee.
Bristol– a small Tennessee city known for being one of the “birthplaces of country music.”
Franklin– a city located south of Nashville. Franklin is home to many country music stars.
Ripley– a small town in Tennessee
Trenton– a friendly, historical small town established in the 1800’s.
Clark– inspired by the city of Clarksville, TN. Clarksville is the fifth largest city in the state. It is home to Dunbar Cave State Park.

Popular Dog Names Inspired by Famous Tennessee Places

These names are inspired by Tennessee’s beautiful nature scenes and musical venues.

Smoky– a name inspired by the Great Smoky Mountains. This name is ideal for dog lovers who enjoy a vacation in the mountains.
Opry– if you are a listener of country music, you are definitely familiar with the Grand Ole Opry. This would be a great unique name for your dog if you are a country music lover.
Ruby– inspired by the famous underground waterfall, Ruby Falls. Ruby Falls is located in Lookout Mountain located near Chattanooga. A top name choice for anyone who plans on being out in nature with their new furry friend.
Beale– Beale Street located in downtown Memphis, TN is known as the entertainment district in this blues-obsessed city. If you love Blues music, Beale would be a good fit for your new pooch.
Ryman– the Ryman Auditorium is a famous music venue for many concerts and events. It is located in Nashville, TN.
Tootsie– If you have ever walked the streets of downtown Nashville, you have probably noticed the famous Tootsies Orchid Lounge. Tootsies is three stories tall and has live country music performances daily. If you are on the lookout for cute southern female dog names, Tootsie is an adorable choice.

List of Names Inspired by Famous Tennesseans

Dolly– inspired by the famous Dolly Parton. Dolly would make such a cute dog name for a female pup that has just a bit of southern sass.
Davy– inspired by the historical figure, Davy Crockett. He was from Limestone, TN and represented the state of Tennessee in the U.S House of Representatives.
Summitt– a name inspired by the Lady Vols’ head coach Pat Summitt. Summitt would be great name for your pup if you are an University of Tennessee alumni or just love the university in general.
Manning– while Peyton Manning is not technically from Tennessee, he was the well-known quarterback for the University of Tennessee from 1994-1997. This could be another good choice for dog owners that have a tie to the university.
Chesney– if you are a Kenny Chesney fan, consider naming your dog after this famous country singer. Chesney was born in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Dog Names Inspired by Tennessee Treasures

Just the little things that make Tennessee…Tennessee

Rocky– “Rocky Top” is known as one of Tennessee’s state songs. The song is commonly associated with the Tennessee Volunteers. I have always thought the name Rocky was a great name-especially for male dogs.
Whiskey– whiskey has been associated with the state of Tennessee for many years. I think Whiskey is such a cute name for Tennessee dogs.
Tennessee– Can I really make a Tennessee inspired dog name list without including the actual name of the state itself? I think not.
Bear– the black bear is known to live in the wilderness of Tennessee. They are very common to spot in the Great Smoky Mountains. I know Bear is a popular dog name, but for good reason.
Iris– the state flower of Tennessee. The Iris is a vivid shade of violet and would make a beautiful name for a female pup.
Volly– a short name for the Volunteers. Tennessee is known as the Volunteer State.
Moonpie– a popular chocolate-covered snack in the American South. Moonpie would be a precious dog name (Moon for a nickname).
Titan– This name is perfect for the dog lovers who are also huge football fans. Consider naming your dog after the Tennessee Titans.
Grizzlie– Memphis Tennessee’s professional basketball team, the Memphis Grizzlies.

In conclusion, don’t stress too much about coming up with the best name. You could find yourself going down a major rabbit hole if you let yourself. Simply, choose something you love that shows your Tennessee spirit. You and your pup have many fun-filled years ahead of you!

Didn’t find a name you love? Check out our other dog name lists here.