Most Popular Pet Names of the Year Revealed

BREA, Calif., Nov. 17, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- For the second consecutive year, "Bella" and "Max" were the most popular pet names in America for dogs and cats, according to Nationwide, the nation's first and largest provider of pet health insurance with more than 575,000 insured pets. This marks the fifth consecutive year that Bella has led the way as the most popular pet name in America for both canines and felines.

Although the top two monikers remained the same as last year, there were multiple changes to the top 10 for each species. In dogs, the name "Cooper" continued its growth in popularity and propelled to the eighth most popular name among canines – up more than one hundred spots from three years ago. Among female dog names, Sophie and Maggie both decreased significantly and dropped out of the top 10, while Lola surged into the tenth spot. Among cats, Luna saw an incredible increase in popularity among cat owners and surged into fourth place after failing to break into the top 10 last year, while Sophie saw the most significant drop.

 "Our annual review of the most common pet names gives us a unique view of popular trends among our members," said Carol McConnell, DVM, MBA, Vice President and Chief Veterinary Officer for Nationwide. "Our data often shows increases in certain pop culture themes among pet monikers. The most significant theme has been the continued popularity of the name Bella, which has remained one of the top names ever since the Twilight series was introduced more than 10 years ago."

Despite these monikers being the most popular, many pet lovers choose less conventional names for their companions such as "McLoven the StudMuffin" and "Agent Jack Meower," who were crowned as Nationwide's Wackiest Pet Names earlier this year. To view Nationwide's 2016 Wacky Pet Names list, visit www.wackypetnames.com. 

About Nationwide pet insurance
With more than 575,000 insured pets, pet insurance from Nationwide, formerly known as Veterinary Pet Insurance (VPI), is the first and largest pet health insurance provider in the United States. Since 1982, Nationwide has helped provide pet owners with peace of mind and is committed to being the trusted choice of America's pet lovers.

Nationwide plans cover dogs, cats, birds and exotic pets for multiple medical problems and conditions relating to accidents, illnesses and injuries. Wellness coverage for routine care is available for an additional premium. Medical plans are available in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Additionally, one in three Fortune 500 companies offers pet insurance from Nationwide as an employee benefit.

Insurance plans are offered and administered by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company in California and DVM Insurance Agency in all other states. Underwritten by Veterinary Pet Insurance Company (CA), Brea, CA, an A.M. Best A rated company (2013); National Casualty Company (all other states), Madison, WI, an A.M. Best A+ rated company (2014). Nationwide, the Nationwide N and Eagle, and Nationwide is 0n your side are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. ©2016 Nationwide. Pet owners can find Nationwide pet insurance on Facebook or follow on Twitter. For more information about Nationwide pet insurance, call 800-USA-PETS (800-872-7387) or visit petinsurance.com.

About Nationwide
Nationwide, a Fortune 100 company based in Columbus, Ohio, is one of the largest and strongest diversified insurance and financial services organizations in the U.S. and is rated A+ by both A.M. Best and Standard & Poor's. The company provides a full range of insurance and financial services, including auto, commercial, homeowners, farm and life insurance; public and private sector retirement plans, annuities and mutual funds; banking and mortgages; excess & surplus, specialty and surety; pet, motorcycle and boat insurance. For more information, visit www.nationwide.com.

Nationwide, Nationwide is on your side, Join the Nation and the Nationwide N and Eagle are service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company.

CONTACT:
Nationwide pet insurance
Media Relations
(714) 706-5652
[email protected]

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160106/319751LOGO

SOURCE Nationwide

Related Links

http://www.nationwide.com