When you bring a dog into your life, one of the most important tasks is giving your new canine companion a name. We often like to choose names with meaning—a name that fits your dog’s appearance, your dog’s personality, or perhaps a name that has a special connection for you. You could name your dog based on her appearance: is she fluffy? Is she small or large? What color is she? On the other hand, you could name your dog based on his personality: is he fierce? Is he gentle? Does he have a lot of energy, or is he more laid back? Another option is to name your dog after something that inspires you. Whether you have Hawaiian heritage or if you simply have a love of the Hawaiian Islands, a fun, Hawaiian dog name might be just the thing for your new furry friend.
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
An important aspect of Hawaiian culture is the connection we have to one each other as well as to the natural world around us.
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 (eight consonants and five vowels). They use a glottal stop, called Okina, which is the pronunciation of an apostrophe. This actually functions as one of the Hawaiian consonants, but it is not considered 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 America with two official languages.
Naming Your Dog
Dogs have a unique connection to humans and can recognize an average of 165 words, including their own name.
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 your dog!
Dog Names Inspired by Hawaiian Culture
Coconut trees in Hawaii can grow up to 100 feet tall.
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.
Maui: According to legend, Maui was an ancient Hawaiian chief who created the Hawaiian Islands, brought fire to humanity, and tamed the sun and sky. Maui is also the name of Hawaii’s second-largest island.
Pele: In Hawaiian folklore, Pele is the goddess of fire and volcanos. She has both the power to create as well as to destroy. In some stories, Pele travels with a white dog.
Pearl: Although it is not specifically a Hawaiian word, pearls are produced inside mollusk shells, like abalones, mussels, and oysters . They are also associated with the ocean. Hawaii also has a Pearl City, located on the Island of Oahu on the north shore of Pearl Harbor.
Kona: Kona is a famous Hawaiian coffee from the district of Kona on the Big Island of Hawai’i.
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.
Kapua: Flower
Pua : Flower blossom
Liko: Bud
Kiele: Gardenia
Lokelani: Red small rose
Melia: Plumeria
Oliana : Oleander
Hawaiian Dog Names Inspired by Nature
Hawai’i Island is the largest island in the United States.
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 water
Kai : Ocean
Iniki : Strong and piercing wind
Kaikala : Sea and sun
Kailani : Sea and sky
Kaimana : Diamond
Kai Mana : Ocean or sea power
Lanikai : Heavenly sea
Moana : Ocean
Hawaiian Dog Names Inspired by Your Dog’s Personality
Hawaii is full of natural beauty, like the twin Wailua waterfalls on Kauai Island.
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