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African Dog Names – 415+ Exotic, Unique Ideas for Your Pup

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If you’re on the hunt for African dog names, you’re in luck because we have 415+ ideas that are beautiful, exotic and rare.

These ideas draw lots of inspiration from popular names around the continent. Also included are countries, cities, landmarks, indigenous animals and more.

african dog names - basenji

Why Choose African Dog Names?

If you happen to have an African breed, you should definitely consider African dog names.

The most popular dog breeds from the continent are the Rhodesian Ridgeback, the strong, even-tempered dog originating in Zimbabwe, and the Basenji, the smart, poised, and independent hound from central Africa.

But you don’t need one of these types of dogs to look at African dog names. Any dog would be lucky to have one of these monikers!

Maybe you hail from the continent or have family there. Or you love to travel to Africa or would like to go there someday.

Whatever the reason, African dog names are a unique and awesome choice for any new dog.

Male African Dog Names

Let’s start our guide with popular African male names and their meanings. These names are beloved in African culture and can serve as awesome inspiration for your new dog.

Will one of these fit your male canine companion? Take a look and find out.

  • Abdu – worshiper of God
  • Ahmed – praiseworthy
  • Akwtee – younger of twins
  • Azizi – precious
  • Chata – an ending
  • Cilombo – camp by the road
  • Dakarai – happiness
  • Faraji – consolation
  • Gyasi – wonderful baby
  • Habib – beloved
  • Hamadi – praised
  • Idi – born during the festival
  • Issa – salvation
  • Jabulani – happy
  • Jafari – stream
  • Khalid – eternal
  • Khamisi – born on Thursday
  • Kizza – born after twins
  • Kodwo – born on Monday
  • Kofi – born on Friday
  • Kojo – orn on Monday
  • Kosoko – don’t dig a grave
  • Malawa – flower blossoms
  • Masamba – leaves
  • Musa – child
  • Mwamba – [owerful
  • Obasi – in honor of God
  • Obi – heart
  • Obike – a strong household
  • Oluyemi – satisfied
  • Osakwe – God agrees
  • Paki – witness
  • Rafiki – friend
  • Razi – secret
  • Rudo – love
  • Runako – handsome
  • Sadiki – faithful
  • Simba – lion
  • Tahir – pure
  • Taj – exalted
  • Talib – seeker
  • Tau – lion
  • Uba – wealthy
  • Unika – to shine
  • Umi – life
  • Useni – tell me
  • Walid – newborn
  • Zahur – flower
  • Zikomo – thank you
Coton De Tulear

Female African Dog Names

The following female names are popular picks in Africa, and it’s not hard to tell why. They’re bold, beautiful and simply stunning.

If you’re welcoming a new girl pup into your home, you should definitely check out these ideas.

After all, these names are unique and full of character, and it’s a guarantee no other dogs you know will have the same name.

  • Aba – born on Thursday
  • Abeni – girl prayed for
  • Adamma – child of beauty
  • Adia – present of God
  • Adowa – born on Tuesday
  • Amadi – rejoicing
  • Aisha – life
  • Aluna – come here
  • Asabi – of select birth
  • Asha – to live
  • Baako – first born
  • Baba – born on Thursday
  • Bahati – my luck is good
  • Bunmi – my gift
  • Chiku – chatter box
  • Dada – child with curly hair
  • Dalili – omen
  • Do – first child after twins
  • Dofi – second child born after twins
  • Doto – second of twins
  • Fujo – born after a quarrel
  • Habiba – sweetheart
  • Habika – sweetheart
  • Halima – gentle
  • Hanifa – true believer
  • Ifama – all is well
  • Jameelah – beautiful
  • Kakra – second of twins
  • Keisha – favorite
  • Kibibi – little lady
  • Kunto – third born child
  • Lateefa – gentle, kind
  • Mesi – water
  • Mosi – first born
  • Nala – lion
  • Nomble – beauty
  • Nuru – to illuminate
  • Oni – born in a sacred place
  • Pemba – the force of present existence
  • Safiya – pure
  • Sharifa – distinguished
  • Shukura – grateful
  • Sisi – born on Sunday
  • Suma – ask
  • Tabia – gifted
  • Taliba – seeker of knowledge
  • Themba – trusted
  • Zahara – blossom
  • Zarina – golden
  • Zawadi – gift
Red puppy

Strong Male African Dog Names

As you hunt for African dog names, you may be in the market for strong and powerful names. This is an especially great idea if you have a muscular or extra-large pup.

The following names have meanings that possess strength and power. When you call one of these names, you’ll know you’re saying the name of a courageous canine.

  • Akins – brave boy
  • Asim – protector
  • Chike – power of god
  • Gahiji – the hunter
  • Gamba – warrior
  • Hashim – destroying
  • Hondo – warrior
  • Iyapo – many trials
  • Jabari – brave, fearless
  • Jelani – mighty
  • Kafele – worth dying for
  • Kamau – quiet warrior
  • Khalfani – destined to lead
  • Kitwana – pledged to live
  • Kondo – war
  • Lisimba – hurt by a lion
  • Lutalo – warrior
  • Nassor – victorious
  • Njau – young bull
  • Nwabudike – the son is the father’s power
  • Obataiye – king of the world
  • Obayana – king warms himself at the fire
  • Olugbala – savior of the people
  • Yazid – to become greater
  • Zaid – increase, growth
  • Ziyad – to become greater
  • Zuberi – Strong

Strong Female African Dog Names

And the same goes for these strong female African dog names. Their meanings reflect strength, power, and tenacity.

If you value these qualities, you should definitely take a look at these ideas. After all, these names are also gorgeous and unique, just like your dog.

  • Abiba – born after death
  • Abidemi – born during the father’s absence
  • Abiona – born on a journey
  • Adelola – crown brings honor
  • Aina – difficult birth
  • Dziko – the world
  • Faizah – victorious
  • Fayola – walk with honor
  • Folayan – to walk with dignity
  • Kambo – must work for everything
  • Kesi – born when the father had troubles
  • Nailah – succeeding
  • Ngabile – I have it
  • Ode – born along the road
  • Rashida – righteous
  • Rukiya – rising up
  • Sauda – dark beauty
  • Siti – respected woman
  • Thema – queen
  • Uchenna – God’s will
  • Urbi – princess
Dog by lake

Unique Male African Dog Names

African dog names are certainly unique and outside of what you typically see for dog monikers. But if you want an extra unique option, explore the following ideas.

Striking and stunning, these names are anything but ordinary. Check them out and see what you think!

One note: Just make sure you can say the name quickly in the case that you need to get your dog’s attention right away.

  • Chiamaka – God is splendid
  • Chijioke – God gives talent
  • Gwandoya – met with misery
  • Habimana – God exists
  • Ibeamaka – the agnates are splendid
  • Imarogbe – child born to a good and caring family
  • Ipyana – grace
  • Jumaane – born on Tuesday
  • Kereenyaga – mountain of mystery
  • Kwabena – born on Tuesday
  • Madzimoyo – water of life
  • Munyiga – one who bothers other people
  • Nabulung – do not receive
  • Obiajulu – the heart is consoled
  • Okechuku – a gift of God
  • Olafemi – honor favors me
  • Olaniyan – surrounded by honor
  • Olushola – God has blessed me
  • Sulaiman – peaceful
  • Tabansi – one who endures
  • Thandiwe – beloved
  • Uchechi – God’s will
  • Wambua – born during the rainy season
  • Wekesa – born during the harvest time

Unique Female African Dog Names

Sometimes common names like Bella and Daisy just won’t do for a dog. If you’d prefer rare yet ravishing names, these unique female African dog names could be just the ticket.

Are one of these the right fit for your furry friend? Try them out and see!

  • Ababuo – child keeps returning
  • Abagbe – to lift up
  • Abayomi – brings joy
  • Adebola – honor is hers
  • Adeleka – crown brings happiness
  • Akanke – to know her is to love her
  • Akwokwo – younger of twins
  • Baderinwa – worthy of respect
  • Chausiki – born at night
  • Folami – honor and respect me
  • Foluke – placed in God’s care
  • Hasanati – good
  • Hembadoon – the winner
  • Husniya – beauty
  • Kadija – the prophet’s gift
  • Khadija – born prematurely
  • Mashika – born during a rainy season
  • Nabulungi – beautiful one
  • Nombeko – respect
  • Salihah – correct
  • Suhailah – gentle soul
  • Thandiwe – affectionate
  • Uwimana – daughter of God
  • Walidah – newborn
  • Zubaidah – marigold
Basenji

More Male African Dog Names

Looking for even more African dog names? You’re in luck because we have even more awesome ideas.

Sometimes new pup parents need to see hundreds, even thousands, of ideas before they settle in on the right name. And that’s OK!

It’s always a good idea to have plenty of inspiration, and these names are cool, cultured picks for your pooch.

  • Ali – exalted
  • Aswad – black
  • Badru – born between full moons
  • Dabir – teacher
  • Danladi – born on a Sunday
  • Fadil – generous
  • Fakih – one who recites the Koran
  • Funsani – request
  • Gowon – rainmaker
  • Hanif – true believer of Islam
  • Harun – lofty
  • Ibrahim – father of a multitude
  • Ishaq – laughter
  • Jahi – dignity
  • Jaja – honored one
  • Jojo – born on Monday
  • Juma – born on a Friday
  • Jumoke – loved by everyone
  • Kasiya – departure
  • Kayode – he brought joy
  • Kehinde – second born of twins
  • Khaldun – eternal
  • Kokayi – summon the people
  • Kontar – only child
  • Kufuo – the father shared the pains of birth
  • Kwakou – born on Wednesday
  • Kwasi – born on Sunday
  • Lateef – gentle
  • Lebna – spirit
  • Machupa – one who likes to drink
  • Madu – people
  • Mandala – spectacles
  • Masud – fortunate
  • Mawuli – there is a God
  • Mazi – sir
  • Mosi – fifth-born
  • Najja – born after
  • Ndulu – dove
  • Okello – born after twins
  • Okpara – fifth-born son
  • Olubayo – rejoicing
  • Olufemi – wealth and honor favors me
  • Oluwa – our lord
  • Osei – honorable, noble
  • Ranako – handsome
  • Salehe – good man
  • Sekayi – laughter
  • Thabiti – a man
  • Themba – hope
  • Tumaini – hope

More Female African Dog Names

If you’re welcoming a female furbaby into your home, take a look at these additional African dog names. Maybe one is right for your new pet?

By now you’ll likely like at least a few options on this name guide!

  • Abebi – asked for
  • Ada – first daughter
  • Adana – her father’s daughter
  • Adanya – her father’s daughter
  • Adesina – this child opens the way
  • Akili – bright
  • Alika – most beautiful
  • Ama – Saturday’s child
  • Ameena – trustworthy
  • Ami – Saturday’s child
  • Ashia – hope
  • Aziza – precious
  • Barika – successful
  • Bolade – honor arrives
  • Chika – God is supreme
  • Chipo – gift
  • Dalia – gentle
  • Deka – pleasing
  • Efia – born on Friday
  • Eshe – life
  • Fayola – walk with honor
  • Hadiya – gift
  • Hasina – good
  • Japera – give thanks
  • Jendayi – give thanks
  • Jina – named child
  • Kalifa – holy
  • Lulu – pearl
  • Nakisisa – child of the shadows
  • Neema – prosperous
  • Nkosazana – prince
  • Ramila – fortune teller
  • Sanura – kitten
  • Sigele – left
  • Subira – Patience is rewarded
  • Sukutai – hug
  • Teleza – slippery
  • Xhosa – sweet
  • Yejide – looks like her mother
  • Zahra – flowering
  • Zakiya – pure
  • Zuwena – good

Source: Adoption.com

Dog running

African Dog Names Inspired By Geography

Other ideas for an African-themed name include selecting the name of a country, city, or another geographic element. 

This is an especially great choice if you’re drawn to a certain region of the continent and want to pay tribute to that area.

Country Names

Let’s start by exploring the countries in Africa. The continent encompasses 11.73 million square miles and includes a whopping 54 countries.

Many of these countries make creative, cultured African dog names.

  • Algeria
  • Angola
  • Benin
  • Botswana
  • Burkina Faso
  • Burundi
  • Cabo Verde
  • Cameroon
  • Chad
  • Comoros
  • Congo
  • Côte d’Ivoire
  • Djibouti
  • Egypt
  • Eritrea
  • Eswatini
  • Ethiopia
  • Gabon
  • Gambia
  • Ghana
  • Guinea
  • Guinea-Bissau
  • Kenya
  • Lesotho
  • Liberia
  • Libya
  • Madagascar
  • Malawi
  • Mali
  • Mauritania
  • Mauritius
  • Morocco
  • Mozambique
  • Namibia
  • Niger
  • Nigeria
  • Rwanda
  • Senegal
  • Seychelles
  • Sierra Leone
  • Somalia
  • Sudan
  • Tanzania
  • Togo
  • Tunisia
  • Uganda
  • Zambia
  • Zimbabwe

City Names

Another option is to explore the most popular and populous cities across the continent.

We bet you’ll fall in love with at least one of these noteworthy names.

  • Aba – Nigeria
  • Abidjan – Ivory Coast
  • Abobo – Ivory Coast
  • Abuja – Nigeria
  • Accra – Ghana
  • Agadir – Morocco
  • Alexandria – Egypt
  • Algiers – Algeria
  • Bamako – Mali
  • Benoni – South Africa
  • Cairo – Egypt
  • Casablanca – Morocco
  • Dakar – Senegal
  • Djibouti – Djibouti
  • Douala – Cameroon
  • Durban – South Africa
  • Enugu – Nigeria
  • Fes – Morocco
  • Giza – Egypt
  • Harare – Zimbabwe
  • Ibadan – Nigeria
  • Ilorin – Nigeria
  • Jos – Nigeria
  • Kaduna – Nigeria
  • Kampala – Uganda
  • Kano – Nigeria
  • Khartoum – Sudan
  • Kigali – Rwanda
  • Kinshasa – Republic Of The Congo
  • Kumasi – Ghana
  • Lagos – Nigeria
  • Luanda – Angola
  • Lusaka – Zambia
  • Maputo – Mozambique
  • Marrakesh – Morocco
  • Matola – Mozambique
  • Mogadishu – Somalia
  • Mombasa – Kenya
  • Nairobi – Kenya
  • Niamey – Niger
  • Nyala – Sudan
  • Oran – Algeria
  • Oyo – Nigeria
  • Suez – Egypt
  • Tangier – Morocco
  • Tebessa – Algeria
  • Timbuktu – Mali
  • Tripoli – Libya
  • Tunis – Tunisia
  • Zanzibar – Tanzania
  • Zaria – Nigeria

For even more cities across the globe check out our city dog names list.

Other Geographic Inspiration

Africa is home to some of the most remarkable rivers, deserts, and landmarks in the entire world.

When searching for African dog names, check out these ideas and see if any are a fit for your furry friend.

  • Kalahari – desert
  • Karisimbi – mountain
  • Kasai – river
  • Kilimanjaro – Mount Kilimanjaro
  • Nile – river
  • Sahara – desert
  • Serengeti – national park and ecosystem
  • Victoria – Victoria Falls
  • Ubangi – river
  • Zambezi – river
Dog and monkey

African Dog Names Inspired By Indigenous Animals

Africa is home to many unique, stunning animals that could also make interesting dog names.

Would any of these animals make a great name for your dog?

  • Aardvark
  • Antelope
  • Baboon
  • Buffalo
  • Bushbaby
  • Cheetah
  • Giraffe
  • Gorilla
  • Hippo
  • Hyena
  • Jackal
  • Leopard
  • Lion
  • Mongoose
  • Monkey
  • Okapi
  • Ostrich
  • Rhino
  • Warthog
  • Wildebeest
  • Zebra

Final Thoughts: African Dog Names

We hope you’ve enjoyed these 415+ African dog names. They’re distinct, unique, and exotic and make perfect pet monikers.

But with so many great options for African dog names, how do you pick the right one?

To start, we recommend you take note of any name that catches your eye. Don’t think too hard. Just write the name down.

From there, take off any name that isn’t a perfect fit. Only keep the ones that you really like.

And finally, when you get your dog, say the name out loud and see if it’s right. You’ll know in your gut when you’ve found the right one!

dog in grass

Find More Dog Name Ideas

If you want to continue to look for names, try out our dog name generator. It allows you to pick your favorite name styles and/or themes and then generates awesome ideas that are right up your alley.

Other naming guides that may be helpful include:

How Do You Pick The Right Name?

African Dog Names: Find the Right One

How do you know if you’ve picked the right name for your dog? That’s a great question and something all pup parents ask.

After years of helping dog owners, we’ve come up with a fool-proof system to find that answer.

Just ask yourself these four easy questions:

  • Is it easy to say? Some names are great in theory but can be tough to say in everyday life. Before you close in on a name, make sure it rolls off the tongue. This is especially true when looking at African dog names, which can be longer and more difficult to pronounce.
  • Say it out loud. Can you imagine loudly calling for your dog with this name? Could you stand outside and shout it? If the answer is no, move on.
  • Does it fit your dog? Check to see if the name matches your dog’s personality and appearance. If it doesn’t fit your dog, then it’s not the right one.
  • And finally, trust your gut. When you find the right name, you’ll know it.

This is a foolproof way to find just the right name for your dog!

Teach Your Dog Their Name: 5 Easy Steps

Teaching your dog their name may seem difficult at first glance. With practice and persistence, however, we guarantee your dog will pick up their name in no time.

Just follow these five easy steps and you’ll find success.

  1. To start, grab some small treats and put your dog on a leash in a location without any distractions.
  2. Say your puppy’s name in a clear, happy, excited voice. Don’t forget to be positive!
  3. As soon as they look your way, say “yes” and give them a treat.
  4. Wait until they look away and then repeat the process 3-5 times.
  5. Continue to play this name game several times a day. In no time, they’ll know their name and start responding to it.
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