The new Superman movie has been doing really well at the box office in the US, and due to Superman’s sidekick, “Krypto,” it has led to an increase in puppy sales and adoption in the US. Fans are falling in love with the charming loyalty of Superman’s dog. And Superman comes across as a devoted dog owner as well as the hero of hope and justice, as we know him.
There are many clips of the show being shared across social media, and shelters and breeders have noticed an increase in interest in their puppies and dogs. So is this a cause for concern, or is it nothing to worry about? We take a look at how the new Superman movie spurs pet adoption interest and also look at other times in the past when this has occurred.
There have been many times in popular culture where dogs have featured in film and TV and have influenced the pet interest by increasing demand in certain breeds of dogs and in other species as well. A peak of interest in a certain breed of dog can lead to a number of consequences. Let's take a look at it.
This Disney film helped popularise the American cocker spaniel. They loved the sweet breed with big eyes and floppy ears. This film had less of a long-term impact on the breeds, and more cocker spaniels were adopted shortly after the film.
This famous Disney classic led to a boom in the population of Dalmatians, and it had an impact on the increase in Dalmatian puppies. This consequently led to some issues with behavior in the puppies, and they are also naturally high energy with a demanding temperament. So some of the puppies were abandoned, and their reputation became less popular.
Another challenging breed that was portrayed in the film as fun and lovable, but many new owners were not ready for a large drooling St Bernard with quite significant grooming needs. As many families were not prepared for the commitment required for a St Bernard, some ended up in shelters.
An animated film about a White Swiss Shepherd Dog with superpowers led to an increase in puppy and dog enquiries, especially in Shepherds. These dogs require lots of physical and mental enrichment and aren't suitable for everyone.
Superman has a pet and is now concerned not just as a hero of peace and justice, but is also a doting dog owner with his superhero buddy. People have fallen in love with ‘Krypto,’ and he has led to a lot of interest in dogs on social media. Krypto is portrayed as brave and intelligent, with a strong emotional bond with Superman. With this new film, shelters have seen an increase in interest in their puppies and dogs.
If you are a puppy breeder, then a spike in demand for puppies can be a good thing, as you will likely have waiting lists and be able to find your puppies' homes with greater ease. You might find that you need to ensure that potential new owners are not looking for a puppy on a whim, and so will need to ask plenty of questions to make sure they are aware of the commitment and demands of owning a dog and that they understand the requirements of the breed.
Puppy mills can take advantage of the increase in demand. So, it is important that the public is well educated to not purchase puppies from these scrupulous breeders. The puppies are often unhealthy with potential health issues and have often not been socialized or begun their training. They are unlikely to have had their vaccinations. It is really important that potential dog owners do not purchase from puppy mills and are also aware of the potential to fall victim to the many dog breeding scams out there as well. This is a particular problem on social media.
If you are planning on welcoming a puppy into your home, you will want to make sure you choose the right breed and also the right puppy! Research carefully, you can learn all about different breeds on puppy marketplaces like the American Kennel Club, or AKC, and also Puppy Hero!
Think about the level of energy the breed has, its size, and if it’s a good breed choice for families. Or a great companion. Could you consider offering a home to a dog in a shelter that is waiting for a second chance at a family?
Are you ready for the commitment involved in owning a dog, such as walking, exercise, financial costs, etc? Take time to think about it. Popular culture can spark an interest in dogs waiting for adoption, and this is a good thing. And of course, we love our pooches, so it’s no wonder they end up as stars in films and TV shows. And this can provide opportunities for education in responsible pet ownership.
The new Superman movie has become a blockbuster hit, and audiences are loving Superman's trusty and loyal superhero sidekick, ‘Krypto’. This has led to an increase in pet adoption enquiries, but this doesn't have to be a negative thing. As long as the new owner can provide a loving and responsible home and provide for the dog's needs, then dogs from shelters finding homes can only be a good thing!
An increase in interest in dogs as companions following a blockbuster hit like Superman can also be an opportunity to educate people on responsible and ethical dog breeding and ownership. Puppies from ethical breeders will be healthy, socialized, and happy dogs that, with the right training and care, will grow into well-behaved and loving adult dogs.
If you are considering welcoming a puppy into your home, you can contact your local shelter or look at the Puppy Hero platform for the different breeds that might be a good fit for your family!
21 August, 2025