Dominic — from the Latin Dominicus, meaning "of the Lord" or "belonging to the Lord" — is a name with both religious history and strong contemporary presence, thanks in large part to Dominic Toretto of the Fast and Furious franchise: loyal, powerful, and irrationally devoted to family. That second reading is probably responsible for more pet Dominics than the first.
The Fast and Furious Effect
Vin Diesel's Dom Toretto has been one of cinema's defining masculine archetypes for over two decades: the strong, protective family man who happens to drive cars into the stratosphere. A large, loyal male dog named Dominic almost certainly belongs to this tradition. Rottweilers and pit bulls, breeds often associated with protective loyalty, are natural fits.
Human Crossover Strength
The baby name Dominic remains strong in US data. It's not dated or unusual, just a solid classic. On a pet, it reads as a full proper name chosen with respect for the animal's personhood. Browse strong-register names at pet names.
The Counter-Reading: Nothing Surprising Here
Dominic is a perfectly normal name and will generate no particular reaction either way. If you want a name that starts conversations, look elsewhere. If you want a name that simply fits a strong, calm dog, Dominic delivers without fanfare.