Ted

Ted is a nickname for Edward (from Old English Eadweard, meaning wealthy guard), Theodore (from Greek Theodoros, meaning gift of God), and sometimes other Ed- names. The nickname form emerged through the common medieval habit of rhyming pet forms: Ed became Ned, then Ted. For a pet, Ted is warm, simple, and carries the friendly energy of someone thoroughly at ease in the world.

Ted is a name for an animal who is simply good at being a pet. Nothing complicated, nothing excessive — just warm, reliable, and genuinely happy to be there. It suits medium-sized male dogs with steady temperaments: Labradors, Golden Retrievers, the kind of dog who greets every visitor with the same enthusiasm and never holds a grudge. Ted is also the beloved stuffed-bear-come-to-life from the film of the same name, which adds a slightly irreverent quality for those who appreciate it. Uncomplicated and genuinely likable.