Nils

A distinctive pick — fewer than 8 pets share this name.

More boyscalmassured
#7753

Meaning & Story

A Scandinavian form of Nicholas, from the Greek "Nikolaos" meaning "victory of the people" — simple, Nordic, and quietly confident.

Nils is a name with a clean Scandinavian simplicity — one syllable, effortlessly cool, carrying none of the weight of its longer origins. In Sweden and Norway it's a classic boy's name, and as a pet name it works beautifully for a calm, assured dog who doesn't need much ceremony. It also connects to the beloved Swedish children's story "The Wonderful Adventures of Nils," about a boy who travels across Sweden on a goose, which gives it a touch of Nordic magic.

At a Glance

#7753
Overall Rank
8
Registered
Boys
Popular With

Nils's Personality

Pets named Nils are most often described as:

  • calmStrong match
  • assuredCommon
  • nordicSometimes
  • adventurousOccasionally

Trait order based on owner reports across pet registries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nils a good pet name?

Nils is a well-known pet name with 8 registered pets. Pets named Nils are often described as calm, assured, Nordic.

Is Nils a boy or girl pet name?

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

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