Top 10 Hawaiian Dog Names
| Male | Female |
|---|---|
| Koa | Moana |
| Keanu | Kai |
| Ikaika | Lani |
| Kahuna | Lei |
| Kona | Makana |
| Ulu | Nalu |
| Makaio | Pua |
| Enokie | Hina |
| Kaleo | Lokelani |
| Liko | Kala |
About Hawaii
Hawaii is an American territory, but its culture is far from homogenous. As the youngest of all US states (it became a state only in 1959), it has maintained a distinct identity combined with different influences.
The first settlers of a Polynesian origin arrived at the islands in the third century. The first European – James Cook – arrived there only in 1778. Thus, naturally, their culture has the strongest representation on the archipelago. However, the population of the Hawaiian islands consists mainly of migrants, with Japanese as a dominating nationality.
In today’s article, we’ll focus on Hawaiian culture, digging the best names for your pup rooted in it. If Hula or Aloha are the only ones that come to your mind, worry not – we’ve prepared an extensive list of the best Hawaiian dog names. You don’t have to limit yourself to Spats, Spikes, and Fluffs. To find something unique, it’s worth delving into other cultures!
Female Hawaiian Dog Names With Meanings
Even if you’re not the biggest fan of Disney, you’ve probably heard about Moana – a film based on Polynesian mythology that has become one of the studio’s most recent hits. After it premiered at cinemas, this name, popular in Hawaii, has become trendy worldwide! However, there are many other beautiful female Hawaiian dog names – we’ve gathered them all so that you can easily find a match for your pet!
- Alaina (precious);
- Alani (precious/orange tree);
- Alana (awakening);
- Anela (angel);
- Anonui (patience);
- Aolani (heavenly cloud);
- Iolani (bird of heaven);
- Kalea (prayers);
- Kailani (beach and sky);
- Kanani (beautiful);
- Kailua (two seas);
- Ke’ala (the path);
- Noelani (heavenly mist);
- Nalani (heaven);
- Oline (joyous);
- Luana (enjoyment);
- Mahina (our moon);
- Moana (ocean);
- Malu (peace);
- Heiau (temple);
- Pohaku (rock);
- Wena (glow).
Our Reader’s Story
When I adopted my pup from Hawaii, I wanted to find a special name that was unique to her island home. After doing some research, I found the perfect Hawaiian dog name for her: Kala. Kala means “the sun” in Hawaiian and it was the perfect fit for my pup who loves to bask in the sun.
Male Hawaiian Dog Names With Meanings
Among the male Hawaiian dog names, Keanu is the most popular – for obvious reasons! But there are others that have a beautiful sound and carry meaning. Let’s just take:
- Alleyne (precious);
- Aloha (joyful sharing of love);
- Alaka’i (leader/guide);
- Aukai (sailor);
- Aloiki (famous warrior);
- Akamu (of the Earth);
- Kaleo (the voice of one calling out);
- Kawai (coming from water);
- Kauai (a favorite place);
- Kanoa (the free one);
- Keoni (God is gracious);
- Keoki (farmer);
- Kalani (sky/the royal one);
- Keanu (cool breeze over the mountains);
- Kekoa (the brave one);
- Mano (shark);
- Makani (wind);
- Mahina (our moon).
Looking for more dog names inspired by different cultures? Check out the best Mexican dog names!
Hawaiian Gods Male Dog Names
Hawaiian mythology shows strong Polynesian influences, since the indigenous inhabitants of the Marquize islands were the first settlers of the archipelago. The main male deities include:
- Lono – god of peace, music, and learning;
- Kane – god of forests;
- Kamapua’a – god of wild boars;
- Ku – god of war;
- Maui – god of the sun.
Hawaiian Goddess Female Dog Names
Just like in the case of male gods, the female ones also represent the forces of nature that have shaped the stunning archipelago. Their beautiful names could fit your furry princess. Here are some of the best Hawaiian dog names inspired by goddesses:
- Lilinoe – goddess of mist;
- Laka – goddess of beauty, love, and fertility;
- Pele – the goddess of fire and volcano;
- Poli’Ahu – the goddess of snow;
- Na-Maka-o-Kaha’I – the goddess of water and the sea.
Hawaiian Islands-Inspired Dog Names
Since Hawaii consists of many islands, it’s worth looking closer at their specifics. If you have already visited the archipelago, you probably know how diverse they are. Their vibrant names could be an inspiration to Hawaiian dog names for your pup.
- Hawaii (the largest and the youngest of the Hawaiian islands, known for its volcanoes and sugar cane plantations);
- Maui (second-biggest Hawaiian island, known for its deep valleys and plantations of pineapples, citrus fruits, and sugar cane);
- O’ahu (the most inhabited island of the Hawaiian archipelago, its main city is Honolulu, which is also the capital of the state);
- Kaua’i (a small, mountainous island attracting tourists with its deep valleys, cliffs, and waterfalls);
- Moloka’i (a mountainous island with a small population, known for the plantations of pineapples and cow farms);
- Ni’ihau (the second smallest of the Hawaiian islands, flat and with not much vegetation, it’s called a Forbidden Island since any visit requires a special invitation from the private owner. A small indigenous population lives on the island, cultivating the ancient culture and speaking the Hawaiian language);
- Kaho’olawe (the smallest of the Hawaiian islands, inhabited and relatively dry).
Hawaiian Food-Inspired Dog Names
Hawaiian cuisine reflects its history, stirring up the influences of different ethnic groups and national traditions. Since Asians constitute almost 40% of the Hawaiian population, the cuisine undoubtedly has a Far East touch. In Hawaii, soy sauce, sesame oil, raw fish, and rice flour are the essential ingredients, and many dishes show the influence of Japanese and Chinese culinary traditions. And they also sound cute! Pick your favorite among those we’ve gathered below:
- Poke (raw fish salad served in a bowl, the most iconic dish from Hawaii, often served with edamame, tropical fruits, sushi rice or quinoa, seasoned with different sauces, mainly shoyu or teriyaki);
- Saimin (Hawaiian version of noodle soup with Chinese and Japanese influences);
- Taro-Ko (famous sweet potato chips);
- Luau (a hearty stew made with taro leaves, often seasoned with ginger, coconut milk, or seaweed);
- Mai’ia (banana);
- Paina (pineapple);
- Hua’ala (raspberry);
- Huawaina (grape);
- Apala (apple);
- Kaloti (carrot);
- Paukena (pumpkin);
- I’a (fish).
Summing Up
Naming your pup? Whether you go for Hawaiian dog names or something else, make sure to pick carefully! Short and sweet is the way to go – easy on both of your ears with one-to-two syllables. Don’t forget that once a dog learns their name, it will be difficult (if not impossible!) to switch it up later – so take some time now and find the perfect moniker!
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Hawaiian Word for a Dog?
Īlio (ee-lee-oh) is the Hawaiian word for a dog. It can also refer to a type of Native Hawaiian hunting dog that was used by ancient Hawaiians for hunting and working.
What Are Some Tropical Names for Dogs?
If you’re looking for an exotic name to give your four-legged friend, the tropics offer plenty of possibilities. From island getaways like Coco and Aruba to delicious fruits such as Mango and Papaya, there’s something unique out there just waiting for your pup!
What Is a Good Hawaiian Name for a Male Dog?
Give your male pup one of the best Hawaiian names and impress everyone with their cultural significance. Choose from Koa, Ipo or Kala – all of which have beautiful meanings rooted in traditional Hawaiian culture!
What Do Hawaiians Name Their Dogs?
Hawaiian pooches can be called by a variety of names with each endowed with its own special significance. One of the most beloved monikers for these four-legged friends is Kona, which many regard as an auspicious choice!
Sarah Jameson is a journalist, reporter and a pet nutritionist. She is married to Peter, and they have two beautiful children, Zoey and Quinn. In her spare time, Sarah enjoys cooking for her family and playing snooker. She also loves spending time with her Scottish Terrier, Bobby.
