After the new "Superman" release, audiences are flocking to adopt dogs. It's all because of Krypto

Following the release of James Gunn's 2025 film, there was a sharp increase in interest in shelter dogs.

According to the Woofz app, search queries like "adopt a dog near me" have spiked by 513%.

What's Behind the Surge

The reason? Krypto, Superman's loyal canine companion, who appears in the new film as what looks like a terrier-schnauzer mix.

According to TheWrap, the character was modeled after director James Gunn's real rescue dog named Ozu, whom he adopted while working on the script.

White dog with red cape sits in blue-pink light — Superman movie poster featuring Krypto the dog

Ozu actually inspired Krypto's story: according to Gunn, he was struck by how challenging it was to train a puppy and wondered what would happen if that puppy also had superpowers.

Movie Dog Meets Real Dogs

In the film, Krypto isn't just a dog in a cape — he's a true partner to the hero. He helps in battles, saves people. No wonder audiences are walking out of theaters thinking: "Maybe I should get a dog?"

But this wave of dog love isn't just about the cute factor. Woofz CEO Natalia Shakhmetova reminded everyone that "adopting a shelter dog isn't a trend — it's a serious commitment."

Man in blue-red superhero costume, silver robot and white dog with red cape — Scene with Krypto and Superman from Superman movie

And she's right: while everyone's focused on the super-dog on screen, thousands of ordinary tail-waggers in real shelters are still waiting for their chance.

Who Is Krypto?

Krypto first appeared in DC Comics back in 1955 as Superboy's dog. Since then, he's become an iconic character: starring in animated series, appearing in "DC League of Super-Pets," and now making his big-screen debut.

Krypto has all of his owner's superpowers but keeps the instincts of a regular dog. That's what makes him so charming — he can save the planet but will still scratch at the door when he wants to go for a walk.

Krypto's superhero fame has only benefited real dogs. Earlier, we at zoomboola.com covered six of the most terrifying versions of Superman from the comics.