Nelly

Nelly is an alternative spelling of Nellie, a diminutive of Eleanor (from the Provencal Alienor, possibly meaning the other, or from the Greek Helena meaning torch or moon) and of Helen. It has a warm, old-fashioned charm with music hall roots — cheerful, friendly, and impossible to take too seriously.

Nelly is a name with a built-in smile. It's warm, slightly vintage, and sounds like the name of someone who is always good for a laugh. Female dogs with friendly, bouncy personalities suit it perfectly — think Beagles, Springers, Bichons. The name also has an undeniable musical quality through Nellie the Elephant and various folk traditions, which gives it a rhythmic cheerfulness. Nelly is a name that comes with a ready-made reputation for being excellent company.