Warhound starts cloning dogs
A new company led by Ben Lamm and backed by Palmer Luckey aims to produce genetically edited canines for military use by early 2027.
By Alina Carter ·
Warhound, a new startup, has begun the process of cloning dogs for the United States military. The company secured $200 million in funding to engineer these animals and outfit them with specialized gear. This initiative represents a joint effort between Ben Lamm of Colossal Biosciences and Palmer Luckey of Anduril.
The financial injection allows the team to proceed with genetic modifications on cell samples from their first group of donors. These donor dogs are high-performing animals from the military, police, and first responder units across the country. The group consists mostly of Belgian Malinois, with some labradors and shepherds included in the initial pool.
Scientists at Colossal Biosciences will modify the genes of these animals before cloning them. The primary focus of the early research is to reduce the risk of hereditary health issues. Specifically, the team aims to lower the likelihood of hip dysplasia and certain cancers that are common in these breeds.
Lamm told TechCrunch that additional genetic changes may follow the initial health improvements. Future edits could make the animals faster and more agile or sharpen their sense of smell. These enhancements are designed to improve the working capacity of the dogs in the field.
The founders bring distinct backgrounds to the project. Luckey, who founded Oculus VR, leads Anduril, a defense firm that recently won a US Army contract for a battlefield intelligence system. Lamm’s company, Colossal Biosciences, is known for de-extinction efforts involving the dire wolf and the woolly mammoth.
Anduril’s involvement is limited to hardware and software. The company will design protective equipment such as goggles, vests, and body armor for the working dogs. The partnership does not currently include plans for cyborg animals. In terms of ownership, Colossal Biosciences holds equity in Warhound, while Luckey and Anduril do not hold a stake. David Spirk, formerly of Palantir, serves as CEO.
The first batch of genetically engineered dogs is expected to be born in early 2027. These animals will train for standard working roles, including bomb detection and search-and-rescue operations.
