Warhound Raises $200 Million to Develop Military Working Dogs

Warhound emerged from stealth with a $200 million seed round to develop working dogs for military, law-enforcement and emergency-response roles, pairing genetic technology with defense equipment.

The company announced the funding and launch Oct. 22. Warhound was conceived by Colossal Biosciences CEO Ben Lamm and Anduril founder Palmer Luckey, and is led by CEO David Spirk. It plans to use genetics and cloning technology licensed from Colossal. Anduril will provide equipment and software, including eye and ear protection and Eagle Eye technology.

The program is intended to reduce U.S. reliance on foreign suppliers. The company plans to combine the technology with training and animal care for dogs used in military, law-enforcement and emergency-response work.

Warhound named In-Q-Tel, Sequoia Capital, ARK Invest, Franklin Templeton, 8VC, USIT, Bob Nelsen, Breyer Capital, CAZ Investments, Neogenesis, Builders VC and Lux Capital among its backers. It said the American Humane Society will certify its training programs and support efforts to reunite retired military dogs with former handlers. Dr. Robin Ganzert, the organization’s president and CEO, said, “We owe these dogs a commitment to their well-being that matches their service to us.”