Hawaii is a magnificent place filled with endless natural beauty and rich culture. Situated in the Pacific Ocean, the state of Hawaii comprises 137 volcanic islands, including the “Big Island” of Hawai’i. Visitors from all over the world come to Hawaii all throughout the year to enjoy its beautiful sandy beaches, lush rainforests, stunning mountains and waterfalls, and the deep roots of its unique Polynesian culture. Hawaiian names not only sound beautiful, but each has its own uniquely rich meaning. Let’s look at 66 fun Hawaiian dog names and their meanings.
Hawaiian Language
You might already be familiar with a few Hawaiian words, such as “Aloha” or “Ohana”. Hawaiian is a beautiful language that holds much of the islands’ cultural heritage, identity, history, and traditions. Unfortunately, when the United States annexed Hawaii in 1898, the Hawaiian language began a steady decline as it was replaced by English. Today Hawaiian is a critically endangered language. However, much of the language is slowly returning to a place of prominence on the Hawaiian Islands. You can help add to its revival by choosing one of these fun Hawaiian names for your dog. A quick note about the Hawaiian language: The Hawaiian alphabet uses only 13 letters (8 consonants and 5 vowels). They use a glottal stop, called Okina, which is the pronunciation of an apostrophe. This actually functions as one of the Hawaiian consonanta, but it is not considered as a part of the alphabet. Hawaiian words have a lot of vowels, and they are often pronounced individually. And, another fun fact, Hawaii is the only state in the America that has two official languages.
Naming Your Dog
Giving your dog a name is an important task. Make sure that you choose a name that is easy to pronounce and that gives you a good feeling when you say it. It is also helpful if the entire family can agree on a name—you don’t want to confuse your dog with several different names. Names with two or three syllables are typically best, but most importantly, choose a name that works best for you and your furry friend! Here are 66 unique and fun Hawaiian dog names and their meanings—check them out to see if one is the right fit for you dog!
Dog Names Inspired by Hawaiian Culture
The Hawaiian Islands have such a rich culture and heritage, connecting humans to one another as well as the natural world. Whether it is from Hawaiian folklore, a traditional Hawaiian food, or a name with a beachy vibe, one of these names might be just the thing for your dog.
Dog Names Inspired by Hawaiian Dogs
You could always give your dog a more traditional name like “Spot” or “Fluffy”, but why not use a Hawaiian version for an extra fun twist?
Ilio: Dog or wolfKiko: SpotKikokiko: This would be a great name for a dog with several spots or markings, since Kikokiko means “speckled” or “spotted”.Ole: FangWeuweu: Fluffy or fuzzy
Dog Names Inspired by Hawaiian Flowers
Hawaii is known for its vast natural beauty and landscapes filled with tropical plants and flowers. Here are a few Hawaiian flower names that would make great names for a sweet puppy or dog.
Hawaiian Dog Names Inspired by Nature
Hawaii has some of the most beautiful islands in the world. Maybe a Hawaiian dog name inspired by Hawaii’s natural beauty is just what your dog needs.
Mano: SharkPalila: The palila is a Hawaiian honeycreeper bird.Ahi: Ahi means fire or lightning in Hawaiian; ‘Ahi also refers to a type of tuna fish.Alani: Orange fruit treeKeanu: Cool mountain breezeAwapuhi: Wild gingerNalani: Calm skiesKeala: PathwayPekelo: StoneMakani: WindNoe: Fog; mistyHaukea: White snow
Hawaiian Dog Names Inspired by the Sky and Heavens
Hawaiian skies are always a beautiful sight. Perhaps a Hawaiian dog name inspired by the lights in the heavens would be a good choice for your dog!
Mahina: Moon or moonlightKahoku: StarAlaula: Light of daybreak or early dawnĀnuenue: RainbowAolani: Heavenly cloudHoku: Night of a full moon; the Hawaiian word “hōkū” also means star.Kalama: Flaming torch or lightKalani: Sky, heavens; royalLani: Sky, heavenly, majestic, royalAka: ShadowMalana: Light, buoyant
Hawaiian Dog Names Inspired Water and the Ocean
What is an island without the ocean? Here are some Hawaiian dog names inspired by water, the ocean, and the sea. If you have a water-loving pooch or simply love the ocean yourself, one of these names might be the perfect name for your dog.
Kawai: Coming from waterKai: OceanIniki: Strong and piercing windKaikala: Sea and sunKailani: Sea and skyKaimana: DiamondKai Mana: Ocean or sea powerLanikai: Heavenly seaMoana: Ocean
Hawaiian Dog Names Inspired by Your Dog’s Personality
And last but not least, here are some Hawaiian dog names inspired by personality or attributes of your canine companion.
Amoka: StrongLilo: Generous oneAsera: LuckyNani: Great beautyEtana: StrongKaipo: SweetheartKekipi: The rebelKekoa: The brave oneKoa: Fearless; bold and braveLaka: GentleLaki: LuckyMiki: QuickPolo: Large and plumpAmana: WarriorAlika: Defender, helper, guardian
