Warhound raises $200 million to clone elite working dogs

Warhound has secured $200 million in funding to genetically engineer dogs for the US military. The venture is a joint effort involving Ben Lamm of Colossal Biosciences and Palmer Luckey of Anduril. The company aims to clone top-performing canines and equip them with advanced protective gear.

The project began with the collection of cell samples from elite working dogs. These donors included Belgian Malinois, as well as some labradors and shepherds, from military, police, and first responder units across the United States. Lamm told Wired that the team has already started editing the genes of these samples. Scientists at Colossal Biosciences will modify the genetic material before cloning the animals.

The initial research focuses on reducing the risk of common breed-specific health issues. These conditions include hip dysplasia and certain types of cancer. Lamm suggested to TechCrunch that future genetic changes could also improve physical traits. Potential enhancements include increased speed, agility, and a sharper sense of smell.

The leadership team brings distinct backgrounds to the project. Luckey, who founded Oculus VR, serves as a partner in the business. His defense company, Anduril, recently won a US Army contract to build a next-generation battlefield intelligence system with Palantir. Lamm, whose company Colossal Biosciences is known for de-extinction efforts, holds equity in Warhound and sits on the board. David Spirk, formerly of Palantir, serves as CEO.

Anduril’s role is limited to equipment and software design. The company will create tools intended to protect the dogs during their work. Examples of this gear include goggles, vests, and body armor. Warhound is not planning to create cyborg dogs at this stage. Neither Luckey nor Anduril holds a financial stake in the startup, though Colossal Biosciences does.

Warhound expects the first batch of its genetically engineered dogs to be born in early 2027. These animals will be trained for standard working dog roles. Their primary duties will include detecting bombs and assisting in search-and-rescue operations.