Why is Superman’s dog named Krypto if he’s allergic to kryptonite?

After what feels like an eternity, we’ve finally gotten a glimpse of the upcoming Superman movie, which is set to revitalize the DC Universe in a big way. The teaser, full of excitement and anticipation, gave fans a look at David Corenswet as Clark Kent, and to everyone’s delight, James Gunn dropped a fun surprise—Krypto the dog. While we still don’t know much about the film’s plot, the inclusion of the beloved super-powered dog was a pleasant surprise. But it leaves us wondering—why on Earth (or Krypton) did Superman name his dog Krypto, considering he can’t stand Kryptonite?

Krypto, Superman’s canine companion, was first introduced in the comics as Kal-El’s pet on Krypton. He was originally used by Kal-El’s father, Jor-El, as a test subject for the prototype rocket that would eventually carry Kal-El to Earth. However, Krypto’s rocket was knocked off course, much like the story of Kal-El’s cousin, Kara. Krypto eventually arrived on Earth years later, by which time Clark was already a teenager.

As for Krypto’s name, it’s not connected to Kryptonite—the power-draining substance that harms Superman—but rather a nod to Krypton, Superman’s home planet. Since Krypto was Kal-El’s pet as a young child, it makes sense that the boy would choose a simple, straightforward name. In other versions of the comic, Krypto is portrayed as a regular dog who was rescued by Superman’s friend, Bibbo Bibbowski. Initially, Bibbo tried to name the dog “Krypton,” after the planet, but due to a mistake by the engraver, the “N” was left out, and thus the dog was named Krypto.

James Gunn’s Superman movie embraces the character’s comic book roots, something that’s been lacking in previous live-action adaptations. The teaser trailer revealed that the film will focus on Kal-El reconciling his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing. It also introduced some of the characters who will join Superman on his journey. However, the standout moment of the teaser was undoubtedly Krypto the Superdog, who came to Superman’s rescue.

In the scene, Superman is injured in an icy landscape and calls for Krypto. The super-powered dog rushes to Superman’s side at lightning speed, grabs onto his cape, and pulls him home. Krypto isn’t just an ordinary dog—he’s a member of an alien canine species from Krypton. Like Kryptonians, he has superpowers under a yellow sun. In the comics, Krypto often accompanies Superman or Superboy in their heroic endeavors and wears a cape with the iconic Superman symbol on it.

But Krypto isn’t the only comic character making an appearance in this movie. The teaser also introduced several other heroes that even casual fans may not recognize. For example, Nathan Fillion will play Guy Gardner, one of the Green Lanterns, despite the announcement that Aaron Pierre will be portraying John Stewart in the upcoming Lanterns series. Fans will also see Lois Lane, Superman’s longtime love interest, portrayed by Rachel Brosnahan, known for her role in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Other heroes include Edi Gathegi as Mister Terrific, Anthony Carrigan as Metamorpho, and Isabela Merced as Hawkgirl.

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