Bijou is the French word for "jewel" — and it's one of those pet names that's almost too perfect for a small, precious dog that an owner genuinely treats as their most prized possession. At rank 1010, it closes out this batch as a name with genuine elegance and a specific cultural signature.
The French Feminine Aesthetic
French words as pet names have a specific appeal: they carry European sophistication without needing to explain themselves. Bijou sits alongside Coco, Fifi, and Belle in the French-inflected female pet name set that's been used in American households — particularly among Francophiles and in communities with French or Haitian Creole connections — for generations.
The Jewelry Meaning
Naming a dog "Jewel" in English is sweet but plain; naming her Bijou adds a layer of French refinement that elevates the sentiment. It's particularly apt for small, beautiful dogs: Bichon Frises, Maltese, and Toy Poodles carry it perfectly. These are breeds that already look like they belong in a Parisian apartment.
The Closing Note
Bijou is a name that requires a certain commitment to its premise — you can't half-commit to calling your dog "Jewel" in French and then be embarrassed about it. But owners who choose it are usually fully in. Compare with Belle for a simpler French feminine pick, or explore more female names at NamesPop.