How Superman’s Krypto Sparked a Global Dog Adoption Trend
Guest Contributor
When Superman soared back into theaters on July 11, 2025, audiences were treated to more than just a fresh take on the Man of Steel. Alongside Clark Kent’s journey of reconciling his alien heritage with his human upbringing, another character quietly stole the spotlight—Krypto the Superdog. This CGI canine companion not only charmed viewers but also sparked a real-world trend that’s warming hearts across the globe: a surge in dog adoptions inspired by the film.
According to data shared by the pet care app Woofz and reported by The Independent, there was a significant spike in Google searches related to dog adoption following the film’s release. Terms such as “adopt a dog near me,” “rescue dog adoption near me,” and “adopt a puppy” all saw noticeable increases. I found this detail striking, as it illustrates how a fictional character can drive meaningful action in the real world. The influence didn’t stop there—searches for “adopt a Schnauzer” also jumped, as fans sought out dogs resembling Krypto’s on-screen breed.
Director James Gunn, known for his ability to blend heart and humor, was clearly moved by this unexpected outcome. He took to Facebook shortly after the film’s release to express his gratitude, calling the uptick in adoptions “the greatest” of the many blessings the film has brought him. Gunn shared that Krypto was inspired by his own dog, Ozu, whose backstory adds another layer of emotional resonance to the character’s presence in the film.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Gunn offered more insight into Ozu’s journey. The dog was rescued from a hoarding situation involving 60 dogs and initially struggled to adjust to human interaction. “He immediately came in and destroyed our home, our shoes, our furniture—he even ate my laptop,” Gunn wrote. Over time, Ozu’s transformation from a fearful, destructive animal into a beloved family member helped shape the fictional Krypto. Gunn recalled thinking, “Gosh, how difficult would life be if Ozu had superpowers?” That thought became the seed for Krypto’s role in the script, ultimately influencing the film’s emotional arc.
The connection between Krypto and Ozu adds a layer of authenticity to the character that resonates with audiences, especially pet lovers. It’s a reminder that even the most challenging animals can become cherished companions with patience and love. The film’s impact on dog adoption rates suggests that many viewers were inspired by this message, choosing to open their homes to dogs in need—perhaps even those with their own “superdog” potential.
While Krypto’s popularity is already cemented, his story appears far from over. The ending of Superman revealed that the dog actually belongs to Superman’s cousin, Supergirl, who is set to headline her own film scheduled for release on June 26, 2026. Given Krypto’s warm reception, it seems likely he’ll make another appearance, continuing to delight audiences and perhaps inspire even more adoptions.
This growing affection for Krypto also highlights the broader cultural appeal of animals in storytelling. When done well, animal characters can serve as emotional anchors, offering levity, loyalty, and a unique perspective. Krypto’s presence in Superman does just that, providing moments of humor and heart that balance the film’s more serious themes. His bond with Superman—and by extension, the audience—demonstrates how non-human characters can evoke real empathy and action.
It’s worth noting that this isn’t the first time a film has influenced public behavior, but the nature of this impact feels particularly wholesome. Encouraging dog adoption aligns with broader efforts to reduce the number of animals in shelters and promote responsible pet ownership. Gunn’s decision to share Ozu’s background during Adopt a Shelter Dog Month further underscores his commitment to this cause, using his platform to advocate for animals who, like Ozu, just need a chance.
As Superman continues its theatrical run, the legacy of Krypto the Superdog is already taking shape—not just on screen, but in the lives of families welcoming new four-legged members. For many, the film has done more than entertain; it has prompted meaningful action, rooted in compassion and inspired by a fictional dog with a very real origin story.