A $200 Million Startup Wants to Genetically Engineer Working Dogs

A good working dog needs a capable nose, steady nerves and a handler they trust. A new company wants to add another ingredient: changes to the dog’s DNA.

In an October 23 announcement, Texas-based Warhound said it had raised $200 million to develop genetically enhanced dogs for the U.S. military, law enforcement and emergency responders.

The idea came from Colossal Biosciences cofounder Ben Lamm and Anduril founder Palmer Luckey. Warhound says it wants dogs who stay healthier, are more likely to complete training and can be supplied from within the U.S.

There are two pieces to the biology. Cloning produces an animal with essentially the same nuclear DNA as the animal whose cells were used. Gene editing changes selected parts of that DNA, potentially affecting traits or the risk of disease.

Lamm told WIRED that early work would target health problems such as hip dysplasia, with breeds including Belgian Malinois, Labradors and shepherds. Whether those changes deliver the intended health benefits remains to be demonstrated.

And a puppy would still have a whole life of learning ahead of it. A genetic copy doesn’t arrive knowing how to search a building or work beside a handler. Experience and environment help shape the dog it becomes.

There is equipment in the plan, too. Lamm described advanced body armor from Anduril to WIRED, intended to help protect dogs while they work.

Cloning involves egg donors and surrogate mothers to carry the pregnancies. In its general position on companion-animal cloning, the British Small Animal Veterinary Association has raised concerns about welfare risks, limited success rates and gaps in the evidence on long-term health.

Warhound says the American Humane Society will guide its program, certify training and help arrange retirement for the dogs, including reunions with former handlers and adoption.

Lamm told WIRED he expected the first puppies in early 2027. That remains the company’s projected timeline.

Their arrival would be an early milestone. The launch announcement does not include results showing improved health or training outcomes, and assessing those promises will mean following the dogs as they grow, train and begin working.