Darla

Darla comes from an English back-formation from Darlene, which itself derives from the Old English deorling — meaning darling or beloved little one. The word darling, with its roots in Old English deore (precious, beloved), has been used as a term of endearment for over a thousand years. As a pet name, Darla carries all of that tender history in a form that feels vintage and warm, perfectly suited to a companion who is genuinely precious to their family.

Darla is a name with a soft, old-fashioned sweetness to it — the kind that belonged to the girl next door in a 1950s film, and somehow feels even more charming today. Companions named Darla tend to be deeply affectionate and just a little bit dramatic about it, the kind of pet who follows their people from room to room and regards any closed door as a personal affront. The name has an endearing quality that suits companions who are unapologetically devoted to their people and not shy about expressing it. Darla is a darling — it is right there in the name.