Conor is an Irish-origin name — a variant of Connor, from the Old Irish Conchobar meaning "lover of hounds" — which makes it a subtly perfect choice for a dog. Owners who know the etymology are giving their dog a name that literally means it belongs with them. The -or spelling is the traditional Irish form, slightly rarer in American registries than Connor.
The Irish Name Dog Aesthetic
Irish names on dogs have a long tradition, particularly among owners with Celtic heritage. Conor fits alongside Finn, Seamus, and Murphy as names that feel authentically rooted rather than chosen from a trending list. The single-syllable shortcut Con works fine, though Conor itself is short enough that most owners use the full name. Irish Setters and Irish Wolfhounds named Conor are a natural pairing.
Human-Pet Crossover
Conor as a human name carries strong associations with Irish-American identity and, more recently, with MMA through Conor McGregor. Both pull in different directions for pet naming — the heritage angle is positive, the combat sports association adds a slightly different energy. Most dog owners choosing Conor are probably thinking heritage over fighting, but the McGregor shadow is there.
The Counter-Reading: Spelling Friction
The -or ending creates constant confusion with Connor. Vets, groomers, and dog park acquaintances will default to Connor almost every time. If you care about the Irish spelling specifically, prepare to correct it regularly throughout the dog's life. The distinction matters etymologically but reads as invisible in everyday American use.