DC Comics has created a multitude of unique characters for their universe. Since their founding in 1934, they have amassed hundreds of distinct heroes, villains, and side characters. Understandably many characters are considerably more "creative" than others. For instance, the surprisingly expansive list of superhero and supervillain animals.
Apparently, the fight between good and evil is not subject to key characters alone but their pets as well. While there are many super pets by far, the most notable is the Man of Steel's dog Krypto. This superhero canine is known by many however not much is known about Krypto himself.
10 Krypto Is Canon
Krypto has appeared multiple times in the DC Universe as an invaluable supporting character. Despite this many fans still question the Dog of Steel's existence in DC's canon. While a superpowered cape-wearing dog seems outrageous Krypto - and other super animals - is undoubtedly canon.
Regardless of Superman's numerous alterations or retcons, his loyal canine has reappeared in some capacity. Krypto is an important ally to Superman and other notable heroes such as Batman. Even when Krypto is not working alongside a superhero he is defending the Fortress of Solitude or executing his own missions.
9 He's Been Around Since 1955
Krypto has received recognition for his recent appearances in comics and other forms of media. The dog of steel has appeared in TV shows, movies, and has even received his own series Krypto the Superdog in 2005. However, Krypto has been around much longer than fans think.
Krypto made his first appearance alongside Superboy (Clark Kent) in Adventure Comics #210 in 1955. Upon discovering the super dog Superboy conducts an in-depth investigation of its origins. His search leads him to a Kryptonian rocket ship revealing the canine Krypto to be his family's pet from Krypton.
8 Krypto's Breed Is Unknown
Krypto's appearance has occasionally changed with his numerous depictions. Krypto has been introduced as a Golden Retriever and a white wolf but has often been portrayed as a basic pedigree white dog. Despite bearing similarities to a terrier this portrayal of Krypto has never been assigned a breed.
While it may be easier to simply classify Krypto as his own unique breed fans have theorized tirelessly on what he may be. Many suggestions as to what breed Krypto is plausible but ultimately unanswered. So, unless DC provides insight into his breed fans will have to classify Krypto as nothing else but Superman's dog.
7 He Has Numerous Origin Stories
A common theme among comic books is their constant need to retcon or revamp stories. While doing so allows comic books to adjust to changes in the universe or fix mistakes it always results in confusing alterations. For instance, changes in the origin story of numerous characters.
Surprisingly, Krypto has undergone many changes to his background and characteristics. Originally Krypto was introduced as Superman's family dog that found its way to Earth. Since then. he has appeared as a Krypto from another universe, a normal dog, a false Kryptonian dog, a genetic experiment, and a clone.
6 Krypto's Been In Two Superhero Animal Groups
DC Comics has introduced many superhero and supervillain organizations. Prominent groups like the Justice League or the Legion of Doom work to further their respective goals. Seeing key members of the DC Universe work together is thrilling but what about their furry - or feathery - companions?
Krypto among many other super pets has joined animal organizations for good. The most well-known being the Legion of Super-Pets that worked to fight crime other heroes could not. Another organization the Space Canine Patrol Agents (SCPA) functioned to fend of intergalactic threats. Krypto had the opportunity to be an influential member of both animal-based groups.
5 Krypto's Incredibly Powerful
Krypto - and other super animals - are often disregarded as weaklings compared to their masters. While that is mostly true Krypto is still a formidable member of the forces of good. Despite being a dog Krypto bears the same powers and abilities as Superman. Meaning that he is a formidable match for many of DC's characters.
Despite never really facing villains one-on-one Krypto has proven his strength elsewhere. Krypto has provided critical support to Superman and is even considered to be a phenomenal guardian of the Fortress of Solitude. In addition, Krypto has held his own against Supergirl and Superboy-Prime.
4 He Sacrificed Himself
It is common for comic book franchises to eventually kill off notable characters. Usually, it is done to further the story and create new possibilities for the future. No matter how sad it may be it is a necessary part of any franchise's story. While nearly every death is depressing hardly any are as sad as Krypto's.
In the comic book Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow Superman struggles to save his friends. Following a battle outside the Fortress of Solitude Superman's home base is breached by the cleverly named Kryptonite Man. In fear that his master would be hurt Krypto attacks the Kryptonite Man and kills him at cost of his own life.
3 He Required Training
Krypto despite his awesome power is still a dog nonetheless. He looks, thinks, and behaves exactly like any other normal canine. Even in his more intelligent depictions, Krypto maintains his animalistic tendencies. While that may not seem like an issue it helps to remember that dogs regardless of breed or background require training.
The same idea applies to Krypto although the consequences for having an untrained super dog are more severe. An untrained Krypto is capable of unintentionally destroying property or delivering lethal blows to enemies. This proved to be troublesome for Superman and he isolated Krypto at the Fortress of Solitude. After some time, Superman thoroughly trained Krypto allowing the dog to join him and other superheroes on missions.
2 Batman Thinks He's Ridiculous
The idea of a super-powered caped dog is outrageous even by DC's standards. Fans throughout the world know this but no DC characters seem to notice, except for Batman. Of course, the dark and brooding Batman takes note of Krypto's obvious absurdity and he comments on it quite often.
Whenever the Dark Knight and Man of Steel do not see eye-to-eye Batman takes jabs at Superman himself or his canine companion. Batman's witty remarks usually do not affect Superman but Krypto becomes remarkably furious. While Batman is correct about Krypto's ridiculousness it is hypocritical considering his own superhero canine Ace the Bat-Hound.
1 The Rock Is Going To Voice Krypto
Krypto has been portrayed in many different forms of media. He has appeared in movies, cartoons, and TV shows in a variety of ways. While each appearance captures the basic aspects of Krypto some are presented with creative additions. The most notable was Krypto's - and other animal's - ability to speak with each other in Krypto the Super-Dog.
Since then Krypto has remained silent but the upcoming movie DC League of Super-Pets will have him speak once more. This film will feature Krypto and other famous superpowered animals in their full glory. DC has announced that Krypto will be voiced by none other than the Rock himself. In addition, DC hopes to hire a cast of A-list actors to join the Rock in Krypto's first-ever film feature.