A new Texas‑based company called Warhound announced its debut with a mission to develop genetically enhanced dogs for the U.S. military, police forces and emergency responders. The venture was created by Palmer Luckey, founder of defense tech firm Anduril, and Ben Lamm, co‑founder of Colossal Biosciences. Warhound has secured $200 million in funding to rebuild America’s domestic supply of elite working canines and lessen reliance on European breeders.
According to Lamm, the startup is already gene‑editing its first cohort of dogs. Blood samples have been taken from top‑performing military, police and first‑responder dogs across the United States, with the intention of cloning them. The breeds targeted will be primarily Belgian Malinois, with some Labrador Retrievers and shepherds included. The first litter of puppies is expected to arrive in early 2027.
Initial genetic work will focus on removing common health problems that affect these breeds, such as hip dysplasia. In later phases, Lamm envisions more ambitious modifications, including the addition of wolf olfactory receptor genes to boost scent capabilities. Colossal Biosciences is known for its gene‑edited wolf projects aimed at “de‑extinction” of the dire wolf.
Warhound also plans to outfit its dogs with Anduril’s advanced cybernetic augments, software and battlefield situational‑awareness tools, according to a company press release. When asked whether the animals would become cyborgs, Lamm said the current goal is to provide equipment such as advanced body armor rather than implant computers in the dogs. In response to a query about laser‑equipped canines, he declined to comment on Anduril’s specific plans, emphasizing instead the focus on dog safety, performance and strengthening the bond between handlers and their animals.
Neither Luckey nor Lamm will manage day‑to‑day operations; Lamm will serve on the board while former Department of Defense chief data officer David Spirk, who most recently worked at Palantir, takes the role of chief executive. Investors include In‑Q‑Tel, Sequoia Capital and ARK Invest. Luckey does not hold equity in Warhound, nor does Anduril, but Colossal Biosciences does own a stake.
Lamm said the two founders have been developing the project for more than a year and only recently moved out of stealth mode. “Someone said, ‘So it’s like the Captain America dog program with the Ironman tech program on top of it,’” he told WIRED.
Warhound says it will operate under the guidance of the American Humane Society.