Canberrans show a dogged determination to stick to the same pet names and breeds; anything else would be mildly catastrophic.

Last year, the most popular breeds of dog and cat were the cavoodle and the domestic short hair cat, and Luna was the most popular name for both species, according to ACT pet registrations.

Once more, the cavoodle and the domestic short hair cat were the top breeds, and Luna the top name for cats.

But dog owners opted for Charlie over Luna, which fell into second place.

To celebrate the Australian women’s soccer team, 31 Canberrans named their dogs Matilda. Others chose movie- or book-themed names, including Harry ‘Spotty’ Spotter, Joker, Sherlock, and Obi Woof Kenobi.

Cat lovers, meanwhile, went for the grandiose: Barry Ratslayer Prince of Darkness, Captain Rascal Tusktooth, Vanity Fair, and Mushu the Magnificent Meowser.

The top 10 dog names and breeds registered in the ACT for 2023 are:

Dog Names:

1. Charlie
2. Luna
3. Ruby
4. Daisy
5. Bella
6. Coco
7. Molly
8. Archie
9. Frankie
10. Poppy

Dog Breeds: 

1. Cavoodle 
2. Border Collie
3. Kelpie
4. Labrador Retriever
5. Dachshund 
6.  Jack Russell Terrier
7. Staffordshire Bull Terrier 
8. German Shepherd 
9. American Staffordshire Terrier 
10. Golden Retriever 

The top 10 cat names and breeds registered in the ACT for 2023 are:

Cat Names:

1. Luna
2. Charlie
3. Bella
4. Coco
5. Loki
6. Lily
7. George
8. Lucy
9. Leo
10. Max

Cat Breeds: 

1. Domestic Short Hair
2. Domestic Medium Hair
3. Ragdoll
4. Domestic Long Hair
5. Burmese
6. British Short Hair
7. Bengal
8. Russian Blue
9. Maine Coon
10. Siberian Forest Cat

“Thanks to everyone who registered or renewed their pet’s registration this year,” said Tara Cheyne, ACT Minister for City Services.

“Registration is compulsory for cats and dogs from eight weeks of age. Not only does this provide us with accurate information to help reunite lost pets with their owners, but it also gives us an insight into the most popular pet names and breeds.”

Ms Cheyne urged owners to protect their pets from the summer heat.

“Being a pet owner is enjoyable and rewarding; however, it involves responsibilities. Remember that pets cannot take off their coats like we can. As the temperature rises, they rely on us to keep them happy, healthy, and safe.

“That’s why it’s important to avoid walking your pet in the middle of the day during the warmer months. Early mornings and evenings are best. This also helps protect your pet’s paws from burning.

“To keep your pet comfortable and cool in warmer weather, ensure they have access to fresh drinking water and shade all day. You could also visit one of the dog swimming spots or fill a kids splash pool with water to help your pooch cool down.

“If you’re one of many Canberrans enjoying a well-deserved holiday away, arrange for someone to care for your pet if you are heading interstate or overseas. Don’t leave your pet unattended, and ensure your pet’s carer is familiar with its feeding and exercise requirements. There are also several boarding kennels located around the ACT that can care for your pet.”.

(See also RSPCA ACT’s ten tips to keep your pet safe.)

More information on responsible pet ownership, including registering your pet, can be found online at www.cityservices.act.gov.au.