Riley
Riley comes from the Irish surname O'Reilly, likely derived from the Old Irish name Raghallach, composed of elements meaning "courage" and "valor.
Meaning & Story
Riley comes from the Irish surname O'Reilly, likely derived from the Old Irish name Raghallach, composed of elements meaning "courage" and "valor." As a given name it became popular in the 20th century, and its firmly gender-neutral status has made it one of the most versatile names in contemporary use — equally at home on any companion.
Riley holds #36 among US pet names, with nearly 2,000 companions sharing it. The name has a breezy, confident quality that feels modern without trying too hard. Riley suits companions who are sociable and energetic, always up for whatever comes next, fully present in each moment. Its gender neutrality is part of its appeal — owners who want something contemporary and unfussy without committing to traditional masculine or feminine names find Riley an easy and satisfying choice.
At a Glance
Popular Breeds Named Riley
| Breed | Pets Named |
|---|---|
| Labrador Retriever | 187 |
| Yorkshire Terrier | 119 |
| Shih Tzu | 78 |
| Domestic Shorthair | 7 |
| Domestic Longhair | 1 |
| Domestic Medium Hair | 1 |
Famous Pets Named Riley
Riley (Inside Out, the girl whose emotions include Joy and Sadness — a name that inspired many pet owners)
Similar Pet Names
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Riley a good pet name?
Riley is one of the most popular pet name with 1,962 registered pets. Pets named Riley are often described as Energetic, Confident, Sociable.
Is Riley a boy or girl pet name?
Riley is a unisex pet name, equally popular for male and female pets.
Is Riley also a human name?
Yes! Riley is both a popular pet name (ranked #36 for pets) and a baby name. It is one of 1,600+ names shared between pets and humans on NamesPop.