Link

A distinctive pick — fewer than 118 pets share this name.

More boysbraveadventurous
#999

Meaning & Story

Link is an Old English-derived name, functioning as both a diminutive of Lincoln (from a Latin-Celtic place name meaning 'lake colony') and as an independent name evoking connection, chain, and the bonds that hold things together. In modern culture it is most powerfully associated with the hero of The Legend of Zelda video game franchise.

Link is one of the defining hero names of video game culture — the courageous, selfless protagonist of The Legend of Zelda series who has been saving Hyrule since 1986. For a generation of gamers, naming a pet Link is one of the most direct expressions of love available. The name suits adventurous, brave animals who seem to have an instinct for exploration and a natural heroism in their response to the world. Beyond the gaming connection, Link is a genuinely strong standalone name: short, clear, and carrying the everyday meaning of connection — which is, ultimately, what a beloved pet represents.

About the Pet Name Link

NamesPop Editorial TeamBy NamesPop Editorial Team··1 min read

Link is the hero of The Legend of Zelda — one of gaming's most iconic characters for over four decades — and at rank 999, this name marks a milestone: the last of the top-1000 pet names, a genuine club worth noting. Gaming culture's influence on pet naming is real and Link is its clearest ambassador.

The Gaming Legacy

Link has been the silent hero of Zelda since 1986, a name chosen by Nintendo because the character links the player to the game world. For dog owners who grew up with the franchise, naming a dog Link is a tribute that doesn't need explaining to anyone who shares that background. It works especially well on brave, curious, active dogs who approach the world like it's a new dungeon to explore.

Breed and Personality Match

Link suits athletic, adventurous breeds: Corgis (a Zelda fan favorite, partly because of their elf-like ears), Huskies, and Australian Shepherds all fit the adventurer energy. A green bandana is optional but highly encouraged.

The Sound Advantage

One clean syllable, hard consonant at the end — Link is one of the best one-syllable pet names for actual training use. Commands cut through clearly when the name itself is this short. Browse related gaming-inspired names at NamesPop, or see Zelda for the obvious companion pick.

At a Glance

#999
Overall Rank
118
Registered
Boys
Popular With

Popular Breeds Named Link

Breeds that commonly use the name Link
BreedPets Named
Shih Tzu14
Puggle9
Welsh Corgi, Pembroke8
Domestic Shorthair2
American Shorthair1

Link's Personality

Pets named Link are most often described as:

  • braveStrong match
  • adventurousCommon
  • heroicSometimes
  • loyalOccasionally

Trait order based on owner reports across pet registries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Link a good pet name?

Link is a well-known pet name with 118 registered pets. Pets named Link are often described as brave, adventurous, heroic.

Is Link a boy or girl pet name?

Link is more commonly given to male pets, though it can be used for any pet.

Last updated June 2026 · Data: NYC & Seattle pet licensing records · Methodology