French Shih Tzu Names

Shih Tzus are small, regal dogs with big personalities—and French names capture that elegance perfectly. Whether you want something classic like Bijou or trendy like Coco, French dog names suit the breed's playful yet dignified nature. French names work especially well for these lap dogs because they reflect the breed's royal history and refined temperament. This list includes 50 real French names that owners actually use, each with its meaning and cultural context.

1. BijouVery popularFrench for 'jewel'—perfect for a precious, small Shih Tzu.
2. CocoVery popularPlayful diminutive, famously associated with Coco Chanel.
3. MargotPopularFrench name meaning 'pearl,' connoting purity and refinement.
4. BeauClassicFrench for 'handsome'—works for male or unisex naming.
5. FifiClassicCute French nickname, often used affectionately for small dogs.
6. LucModerateFrench diminutive of Lucas, meaning 'from Lucania.'
7. AméliePopularFrench name meaning 'beloved,' popularized by the film.
8. ToulouseRareFrench city name, evoking art and culture.
9. PierreClassicFrench name meaning 'stone'—solid, dependable.
10. FleurPopularFrench for 'flower'—delicate and feminine.
11. LucienModerateFrench name meaning 'light-giving' or 'illuminating.'
12. GigiVery popularFrench nickname often short for Gabrielle.
13. RouxModerateFrench for 'red' or 'reddish-brown'—a color descriptor.
14. LisetteRareFrench diminutive of Lise, meaning 'God's promise.'
15. MarcelModerateFrench name meaning 'dedicated to Mars.'
16. BiscuitPopularFrench-origin word (bis 'twice' + cuit 'baked').
17. SimonePopularFrench name meaning 'hearkening' or 'one who hears.'
18. BalthazarRareFrench form of Balthasar, meaning 'Baal protect the king.'
19. MinetteRareFrench name meaning 'kitten' or 'small cat.'
20. NoirModerateFrench for 'black'—a color name.
21. EloisePopularFrench name meaning 'healthy' or 'wide.'
22. LuciferRareLatin via French, meaning 'light-bringer.'
23. MargueriteModerateFrench for 'daisy'—the flower.
24. OlivierModerateFrench name meaning 'olive tree'—peace and beauty.
25. BabetteRareFrench diminutive of Barbara, meaning 'foreign.'
26. RenéeModerateFrench name meaning 'reborn' or 'born again.'
27. BeaumontRareFrench place name meaning 'beautiful mountain.'
28. CosetteModerateFrench literary name from Les Misérables.
29. DuboisRareFrench surname meaning 'from the woods.'
30. FabienneRareFrench feminine form of Fabius, meaning 'bean-grower.'
31. GastonModerateFrench name meaning 'from Gascony.'
32. HélèneModerateFrench form of Helen, meaning 'bright' or 'shining.'
33. InesModerateFrench name meaning 'pure' or 'virginal.'
34. JacquesModerateFrench form of James, meaning 'supplanter.'
35. KittyModerateFrench-influenced pet name; diminutive of Katherine.
36. LaetitiaRareFrench name meaning 'gladness' or 'happiness.'
37. MatthieuModerateFrench form of Matthew, meaning 'gift of God.'
38. NathaliePopularFrench form of Natalie, meaning 'natal' or 'Christmas.'
39. OdetteModerateFrench name meaning 'wealthy' or 'ode.'
40. PrudenceRareFrench-influenced virtue name meaning 'careful judgment.'
41. QuincyModerateFrench origin meaning 'fifth son's estate.'
42. RaoulModerateFrench form of Ralph, meaning 'wolf-counsel.'
43. SophieVery popularFrench name meaning 'wisdom.'
44. ThierryRareFrench name meaning 'mighty' or 'ruler of the people.'
45. UrsulaRareFrench-influenced name meaning 'little bear.'
46. ValerieModerateFrench name meaning 'strong' and 'valiant.'
47. VivienneVery popularFrench name meaning 'lively' or 'vibrant.'
48. XavierModerateFrench form via Basque, meaning 'new house.'
49. YvesRareFrench name meaning 'archer' or 'yew wood.'
50. ZephyrRareGreek via French, meaning 'west wind.'

Frequently Asked Questions

Do French names work well for Shih Tzus?

Yes, absolutely. Shih Tzus were bred as royal lap dogs for Chinese emperors, and French names echo that regal heritage. The breed's small stature, flowing coat, and dignified temperament pair naturally with sophisticated French naming. Many Shih Tzu owners choose French names to emphasize their dogs' elegance and refined personality.

What are the most popular French Shih Tzu names?

Coco, Bijou, Sophie, and Vivienne are consistently top choices. Beau and Gigi also rank highly. These names are popular because they're easy to pronounce, distinctly French, and suit the breed's appearance and temperament well.

Should I pick a male or female-leaning French name?

Many French names are gender-specific (Margot, Amélie for females; Jacques, Pierre for males), but some work unisex (Coco, Beau, Noir). Choose based on your dog's gender and the name's feel. Don't worry too much—a strong personality will own any name you pick.

Are there short French names for Shih Tzus?

Yes, plenty. Beau, Coco, Fifi, Gigi, Luc, and Noir are all short, punchy French names that work great for small dogs. Short names are often easier to call in parks and training sessions.

Can I use a French place name or surname for my Shih Tzu?

Definitely. Toulouse, Beaumont, and Dubois are examples of French place names and surnames that work as dog names. They're distinctive and memorable, though they give a more formal, artistic vibe than traditional first names.