Courage is the name of the pink dog in Cartoon Network's Courage the Cowardly Dog (1999-2002), a series about a dog who is terrified of nearly everything but faces his fears every episode to protect his owners. The irony is built in from the start: the most frightened dog has the name of the virtue he barely possesses.
The Cartoon Connection
Courage the Cowardly Dog became a cult classic for its surreal horror-comedy blend and its heartfelt relationships. Naming a male pet Courage is almost always a deliberate tribute. Beagles and small, anxious dogs carry the ironic reading perfectly. Owners who choose this name typically love the show and want that conversation.
Virtue-Name Reading
Beyond the cartoon, Courage is a virtue name alongside Grace, Honor, and Faith. Owners who choose it without the cartoon reference are making a straightforward statement. Both readings are valid and both land well in practice.
Counter-Reading: The Cowardly Dog Association Is Strong
Anyone under 40 will hear the cartoon immediately. If you want the virtue reading without the Cartoon Network echo, Brave covers similar ground without the specific IP association. If you love the show, lean into it. The reference is genuinely good and holds up on rewatching.