Calli is a soft variant of Callie, the diminutive of California, Calliope, or just a name that stands on its own with sunny, friendly energy. The double-L spelling distinguishes it from the more common Callie while keeping the same warm sound. For a female pet it fits the accessible, cheerful end of the name spectrum.
Sound Fit for Active Dogs
CAL-lee is two syllables with a clear opening consonant and an easy vowel ending; it carries well outdoors. Golden Retrievers and Border Collies with active, social personalities are natural matches. The double-L gives it a slightly Continental feel without making it unpronounceable.
Human-Pet Crossover
Calli/Callie has been a consistent choice in both human and pet naming for generations. The human version Callie peaked in the early 2000s in the US. When a human name stays popular long enough, it saturates pet naming too.
Counter-Reading: Callie Is Better Known
The standard spelling Callie is significantly more common and instantly recognizable. Calli reads as a personal spelling choice rather than a distinct name. If that distinction matters to you, Calli delivers it. But Callie has more history and will never need to be spelled out at the vet.