Is the name of the dog, alligator, a symbol? And at the same time is it ironic?

The dog is called Alligator. An alligator is something that is cinsidered agressive and of a killing nature. Could this be a symbol for the dog as he has killed many snakes and kills this one as well?

Can it also be ironic as although he kills the snake he is protecting the family? And protecting isnt something alligators are known for.