It’s undeniable that Krypto stands out as the finest canine in the DC Universe, and his current surge in fame can be attributed to James Gunn’s Superman. Currently playing in cinemas, this super-powered dog assumes a substantial part in the film, contributing significantly to the Man of Steel’s battle against Lex Luthor. In the movie, Krypto is portrayed as a hero, but even heroes don’t seem to escape trouble – at least in the comic books.
Warning: Spoilers for James Gunn’s Superman beyond this point!
In the film, following Superman’s destruction of Lex Luthor’s scheme, the wicked mastermind aims to deliver an eloquent diatribe against Superman. However, this speech is abruptly halted as Krypto the Superdog, in a playful yet humiliating manner, tosses Lex around the room like a bald toy, leaving him with bruises comparable to his damaged pride. After all, there’s nothing more degrading than being defeated by Superman, but also by Superman’s dog! Despite the movie villain needing time to plot revenge, his comic book counterpart may have already exacted retribution. The irony is that he didn’t even need to try, as cruelty comes naturally to him. Young Lex Luthor, in the comics, adopts Krypto the Superdog, and offers a grim lesson on pet care – or rather, how not to take care of a pet.
Lex Luthor Is a Terrible Pet Owner
In the initial installment of “Krypto: The Last Dog of Krypton“, Lex initially encountered Krypto. Originally belonging to the El family, Krypto was used as a test subject for a prototype rocket intended to send Superman away from the doomed Krypton. However, during this launch, Krypto’s spaceship got ensnared in a wormhole, causing him to vanish, only to eventually land on Earth. Since he had yet to develop his powers, Krypto roamed around the unfamiliar world, with Metropolis being his unfortunate destination due to its city dangers. It was here that a young Lex Luthor came across the dog and decided to offer him shelter. A heads-up: issue 2 started off with a reminder about animal cruelty, advising everyone to be compassionate towards their pets, so this tale might not suit the sensitive.
In the gritty streets of Metropolis, Lex, who hadn’t yet amassed his wealth, resided with his distant relatives Kathryn and Peter in less than desirable conditions. Upon acquiring Krypto, he swiftly became proficient in canine care, but instead of adhering to advice about positive reinforcement, he opted for force and intimidation as methods of training. Whenever Krypto performed an action displeasing to him, Lex would physically reprimand the dog, confining him to a kennel and instilling the belief that he needed to earn everything – from sustenance to affection. Lex refused to bestow a name upon Krypto, addressing him merely as “dog.” He regarded the creature as a beast he must subdue, with any behavior outside of strict obedience and adherence to his thoughts deserving of punishment – specifically, the kennel and physical punishments. The cinematic Lex Luthor subjected Krypto to torment due to his disdain for Superman, while his comic counterpart did so out of a twisted affection, which could arguably be more distressing.
Lex Luthor, always seeking more, declared to Krypto his intent to detonate a personal bomb, designed for the destruction of Kathryn and Peter, in order to claim their life insurance. He suggested involving Krypto in this act, but found he couldn’t bring himself to harm the dog he had grown fond of, despite his unconventional displays of affection. One day, Lex left Krypto in his pen and went to study humanities, hoping to find a solution for his ethical dilemma. However, in his haste, he slammed the door too hard, triggering the bomb. Upon returning home, he found the building ablaze. In an uncommon act of compassion, Lex braved the flames to save Krypto and initially turned back for his family, but hesitated, contemplating how this disaster could benefit him. Krypto’s barks alerted the neighbors who saved Lex’s kin. Frustrated by being saved, Krypto growled at Lex before running away, dismissing Lex’s protests about being a poor dog. The tale ended with Krypto standing solitary in Metropolis as winter approached.
In the movie, Krypto thoroughly embarrassed Lex Luthor, but this Lex retaliated by inflicting a hundred times the humiliation on the superdog in return. It’s clear that Lex Luthor is a poor dog owner who should never be given control over anyone or anything. Our pets deserve kindness and nurturing, not mistreatment and suffering. Despite Krypto possibly facing more hardships ahead, we can be certain of one thing: he will eventually reunite with his family, Superman, and his best friend will be overjoyed beyond words when that happens.
Krypto: The Last Dog of Krypton #2 is on sale now!
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2025-07-17 21:14