Warhound Launches With $200 Million for Engineered Working Dogs

Warhound has emerged from stealth with $200 million in funding to develop cloned, gene-edited working dogs and wearable protective technology for military, law enforcement and emergency-response work. The Texas startup is valued at $1.2 billion, according to its launch announcement. The company was founded by Colossal Biosciences CEO Ben Lamm and Anduril co-founder Palmer Luckey. Warhound says it has collected and banked genetic samples from high-performing working dogs and is editing cells, initially targeting inherited health problems such as hip dysplasia. The reported research is underway; no gene-edited puppies have yet been reported born. Warhound expects its first puppies in early 2027. Lamm specified the first quarter, and the company has said the dogs could enter service in about two years. The schedule remains a projection, and the dogs’ health outcomes and performance have not been demonstrated. The initial focus is on breeds used in working roles, including Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds. Lamm has also identified muscle atrophy and cancer as possible health targets. He has discussed potential future changes to traits such as speed, agility and scent...