COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) – The Franklin Auditor’s Office released a list of the most paw-pular local dog names of 2023 to remind owners of the upcoming dog license deadline. 

The list of the most popular dog names was derived from Franklin County dog license applications. The most popular dog name for 2023 remained the same as years past: Bella. The name topped the list, even without including spin-offs, such as Bella Rose and Bella Blue. The top five dog names of 2023 include Bella, Lucy, Max, Daisy and Charlie. 

Different candies were also well-represented on the list, with names such as Snickers (132), Skittles (24), Twix (15), Toffee (10), Jellybean (7), Snickerdoodle (5) and Kit Kat (4). In a year of Taylor Swift hype, including the singer being named Person of the Year by Time Magazine and a widely successful “Eras Tour,” four dogs were named Swift. 

Ohio State-based names also continue to be popular with 393 Brutuses, 220 Buckeyes, 196 Scarlets and one C.J. Stroud. There were also 19 Boones and a Laine, which could be paying homage to the Columbus Blue Jackets. Additionally, there were 15 dogs named Crew, possibly named after the Columbus Crew.

The top five dog breeds in Franklin County in 2023 were mixed breeds, labs, pit bulls, German shepherds and golden retrievers.

In Franklin County, dog licenses must be renewed annually between Dec. 1 and Jan. 31. In addition to being required by state law, dog licenses ensure that if a dog is lost they are quickly returned to their owner, the auditor’s office said. Licensing fees also support the Franklin County Dog Shelter.

Owners can purchase or renew a dog’s license here or at the Franklin County Auditor’s office license counter, located at 373 S. High St. on the 21st floor. Counter hours are Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.