pochi

Pochi is a common Japanese name for dogs, written in kana as ポチ or ぽち. In everyday usage it functions both as a real name assigned to a specific dog and as a generic, affectionate label for canine characters in stories, much like “Spot” or “Rover” in English-language traditions.

The term is closely tied to onomatopoeic associations with dogs in Japanese culture. Pochi is not tied to a particular breed or gender; it is widely used for dogs of various sizes and temperaments. Because of its ubiquity, the name carries a friendly, approachable connotation and is often chosen for young or beloved pets.

In Japanese popular culture, Pochi appears frequently in manga, anime, children's literature, and film as the name of loyal canine characters. Its familiarity means it can function as a trope signaling a dog character without signaling a specific backstory or identity. In educational or humorous contexts, Pochi may be used to illustrate typical dog behavior or to evoke a cute, lighthearted mood.

Outside of Japan, recognition of Pochi largely comes from exposure to Japanese media. The name is rarely used as a given name for people and is predominantly seen as a pet name within translations or domestic depictions of Japan-specific storytelling. See also: Fido, Spot, and other culturally common dog names.