So Danarius called Fenris because it means “little wolf” but I’m wondering why Danarius would use that?? It would make sense for Fenris’ name to be Tevene, but it seems weird for it to be Dalish. Unless Danarius studied the Dalish, he’d have to have gone out of his way to find out the translation. Fen is pretty well known, I think (Fen'harel), but what about ris? Not to mention the fact that the Tevinter Imperium pretty much hates elves. It’s obvious that Danarius was using Fenris to intimidate others, so wouldn’t a different name work better?
Tevinter culture is literally built on the ruins of Arlathan. The wolf is both the emblem of elven loyalty and guardianship, and the avatar of their most terrifying deity. In WoTII it’s strongly implied that the ritual Danarius used to infuse Fenris with lyrium is of ancient elvish origin, so yeah, I think Danarius would be well versed in elven culture. By naming Fenris ‘little wolf’ he’s patting himself on the back. It’s basically saying ‘I keep the Dread Wolf as my pet.’ It’s not about Fenris being intimidating; it’s about Danarius himself.