Dov

Dov is a Hebrew name meaning “bear.” It is a direct animal name, so its explanation does not depend on a disputed ancient personal name or a modern spelling invention. The animal may suggest different qualities to different families, but those symbolic associations should remain separate from the simple literal meaning.

Dubi is a familiar affectionate form associated with Dov. The full name is only three letters and can comfortably remain the everyday version. English readers may notice a resemblance to dove, but that English bird word has a different meaning and origin. Preserving the Hebrew pronunciation helps distinguish the bear name from that accidental resemblance in writing.