Key Insights
- Krypto consistently stands by Superman, using his Kryptonian abilities and unwavering loyalty to assist in critical moments.
- Superman presents Krypto to Superboy, aiming to nurture a meaningful bond between them.
- In a heroic act, Krypto sacrifices himself to protect Superman from the deadly Kryptonite Man.
Since his initial debut, Krypto the Superdog has captivated comic enthusiasts around the globe. More than merely Superman’s pet, this Kryptonian canine has repeatedly demonstrated his bravery, rescuing the Man of Steel numerous times and leading an entire squad of superhero pets.
While Krypto can be mischievous at times, his devotion to his best friend Kal-El remains steadfast. Despite his smaller stature, he shares Superman’s extraordinary powers and frequently takes action to save the day, whether alongside others or on his own. Let’s explore some of the most remarkable moments showcasing Krypto’s true heroic nature.
6 Man’s Best Friend (Adventure Comics #210)
Superman Encounters Krypto for the Initial Time
In Adventure Comics issue 210, readers are introduced to Krypto the Superdog. In this story, Superboy reconnects with his long-lost companion Krypto. Though Krypto can be a handful, they ultimately manage to collaborate effectively, with Krypto donning a red cape and soaring over Lana Lang to convince her that Clark Kent couldn’t possibly be the Superboy.
While Krypto may not directly save the day alongside Superboy and perhaps complicates situations as much as he resolves them, this tale stands as an iconic representation of what it means to be Man’s Best Friend. Ultimately, Krypto decides to leave Earth, sparing Clark from a difficult decision, thereby showcasing his remarkable qualities as both a pet and a companion.
5 The Best Gift (Teen Titans #7)
Superman Gifts Krypto to Superboy
In the 2003 issue of the Teen Titans comic series, Superboy relocates to Smallville to live with Martha and Jonathan Kent. Recognizing Superboy’s struggle to adjust to his new environment, Superman decides to gift Krypto to Conner, hoping they would forge a friendship akin to the bond he shares with Krypto.
The initial period is rocky as they navigate their differences, but eventually, Conner and Krypto become inseparable friends, with Conner often bringing Krypto along to Titans Tower during his adventures away from Smallville.
4 Krypto the Tracker Dog (Batman: Hush – #5)
Krypto Utilizes His Canine Skills to Locate Poison Ivy
In Batman: Hush issue 5, Poison Ivy gains control over Superman using Kryptonite-infused lipstick, directing him to attack Batman and Catwoman. Following a fierce confrontation, Catwoman manages to free Superman from Poison Ivy’s grip by throwing Lois Lane off a nearby building.
As Poison Ivy flees, Batman and Superman face the challenge of tracking her down. In a heartwarming display that exemplifies Krypto’s canine nature, he is given a leaf from Poison Ivy’s plant to aid in their search. True to form, Krypto quickly locates her and successfully thwarts her escape later on.
3 Confronting Mongul (Superman Volume 2 – #170)
Krypto Battles the Intergalactic Warlord Mongul
While enjoying a leisurely stroll in Metropolis with Lois Lane, Clark Kent encounters the formidable villain Mongul, who comes with his fierce sister, Mongal. With Mongul posing a significant threat to Superman, Krypto steps in to support his owner without hesitation.
Krypto squares off against Mongul while Superman handles Mongal, showcasing his Kryptonian powers, including heat vision and super strength. Krypto valiantly holds his own against Mongul until Superman can deliver the decisive blow. Although the issue concludes with Superman chastising Krypto for his hasty actions, readers recognize that Krypto was simply acting as a true guardian for his companion.
2 The Loyal Guardian (Action Comics Volume 2 – #13)
Krypto Rescues Superman from Doctor Xa-Du
In Action Comics Volume 2, issue 13, Krypto’s unwavering loyalty to Superman is truly on display. When the disgraced Kryptonian scientist, Xa-Du, attempts to escape from the Phantom Zone, he targets a young Kal-El. Without a moment’s hesitation, Krypto intervenes, stopping Xa-Du, but unfortunately gets trapped in the Phantom Zone as a result.
Years later, when Xa-Du successfully escapes, he sends Superman into the Phantom Zone, where Superman faces a swarm of Kryptonian criminals. However, even after all those years, Krypto is present, bravely defending Superman and sacrificing his own chance for freedom to protect his friend. Ultimately, Superman ventures back into the Phantom Zone to rescue Krypto, reuniting with his loyal companion.
1 The Ultimate Sacrifice (Action Comics – #583)
Krypto Gives His Life to Save Superman
The story reaches its climax in Action Comics issue 583, which concludes the ‘Whatever Happened to the Man of Tomorrow’ arc. In this narrative, Superman and his allies confront some of his most notorious foes. Seeking refuge within the Fortress of Solitude, they find themselves besieged by Brainiac-controlled Lex Luthor, Kryptonite Man, and the Legion of Supervillains.
During an assault by Kryptonite Man at the Fortress, Krypto heroically steps up to confront this deadly adversary. In an act of true bravery, Krypto faces Kryptonite Man, fully aware that proximity to the villain will weaken him. Despite the danger, Krypto courageously attacks, sacrificing his own life to save Superman, demonstrating the depth of his loyalty and love.
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