Lockjaw: The Inhuman's Best Friend and a Collector's Gem
Alright, fellow collectors and Marvel fanatics, pull up a chair! Today, we're diving deep into the furry, teleporting world of one of Marvel's most unique and beloved characters: Lockjaw. This isn't just any dog; this is the Inhuman Royal Family's loyal companion, a powerhouse in his own right, and a character whose appearances on cardboard are always a treat. Here at Northland Legendary Finds, we've seen countless incredible characters pass through our hands, but Lockjaw always brings a smile.
Origin Story & First Appearance
Lockjaw isn't your average Golden Retriever. His story begins, as many Inhuman tales do, with the legendary Stan Lee and Jack Kirby. Lockjaw made his grand debut in Fantastic Four #45 in December 1965. This issue was a pivotal moment, not just for Lockjaw, but for introducing the world to the enigmatic Inhumans. He's presented immediately as the Royal Family's pet, a massive, bulldog-like creature with an antenna on his head and an undeniable air of mystery. For years, there was a running gag, mostly perpetuated by Ben Grimm, that Lockjaw was actually an Inhuman who had undergone Terrigenesis and been transformed into a dog. This idea was even explored in Quasar #32, where it was suggested he might be the brother of Crystal, another Inhuman. However, this was later clarified and retconned. It's now generally accepted that Lockjaw is, in fact, a dog – albeit one who was exposed to the Terrigen Mists like all Inhumans and gained extraordinary powers. He's a true member of the Royal Family, their protector, and their most reliable mode of transportation. Imagine having a dog that could get you from New York to the moon in a blink! That's Lockjaw.*
Powers & Abilities
Don't let the slobber and wagging tail fool you; Lockjaw is incredibly powerful. His primary and most famous ability is teleportation. He can transport himself and anyone touching him (or within close proximity) across vast distances, whether it's across a room, across a continent, or even across galaxies. This isn't just a parlor trick; it's a fundamental power that has saved the Inhumans countless times and allowed them to traverse the cosmos. He can even open portals to other dimensions, which is a whole other level of cosmic power!
Beyond teleportation, Lockjaw possesses superhuman strength. He's been shown to easily lift and carry multiple Inhumans, and even battle formidable foes. He's incredibly durable, able to withstand attacks that would fell lesser beings. He also exhibits a form of superhuman tracking, able to locate individuals across vast distances, even other dimensions, by scent. Think of him as the ultimate cosmic bloodhound. And let's not forget his enhanced canine senses – his hearing and smell are far beyond any normal dog. He's also shown a remarkable level of intelligence and understanding, often acting as a silent, wise counsel to the Royal Family. He understands complex commands and situations, proving he's far more than just a pet.
Key Story Arcs & Moments
Lockjaw has been a constant presence in the Inhumans' history, often playing a crucial role:
- Early Inhuman Introductions (Fantastic Four #45-47): His debut alongside the Inhumans immediately established him as a key member of the Royal Family. He was instrumental in their early conflicts with Maximus and their interactions with the Fantastic Four, showcasing his teleportation abilities right from the start.
- Silent War (2007): This storyline saw the Inhumans go to war with the United States after the Terrigen Mists were stolen. Lockjaw's teleportation was vital for the Inhumans' tactical movements and for transporting key personnel, demonstrating his strategic importance in conflict.
- War of Kings (2009): As the Inhumans took their place as rulers of the Kree Empire, Lockjaw was right there, ferrying Black Bolt and the others across the galaxy. His ability to traverse vast cosmic distances was absolutely essential to the Inhumans' war efforts and their expansion into a galactic power.
- Inhumans vs. X-Men (2016-2017): During this tense conflict over the Terrigen Clouds, Lockjaw again proved invaluable. He was instrumental in evacuating Inhumans, transporting key players, and generally being the Royal Family's most reliable asset in a time of crisis. He even had some poignant moments protecting young Inhumans.
- Lockjaw and the Pet Avengers (2009): This beloved mini-series saw Lockjaw leading a team of Marvel's animal heroes (including Throg, Redwing, Zabu, and Hairball) on their own adventures. It was a fantastic opportunity to see Lockjaw's leadership and heroism shine independently, proving he's a hero in his own right, not just a sidekick.
MCU Appearances
Lockjaw made his live-action debut in the 2017 Inhumans television series. Portrayed entirely through CGI, he was a surprisingly faithful adaptation of his comic book counterpart. His teleportation powers were central to the plot, allowing the Inhumans to escape Attilan and travel to Earth. While the series itself received mixed reviews, Lockjaw was almost universally praised for his design and how well his powers were translated to the screen. He was charming, powerful, and undeniably Lockjaw, capturing the heart of the character even in a challenging production. Fans were thrilled to see their favorite teleporting bulldog brought to life, even if only for one season.
Trading Card Legacy
Now, let's talk about what really gets our blood pumping here at Northland Legendary Finds – the cards! Lockjaw, despite being a supporting character, has always been a fan-favorite, and that love translates directly into his trading card appearances. Collectors absolutely adore cards featuring this big, lovable lug. Why? Because he's iconic, unique, and represents the quirky, cosmic side of Marvel that we all cherish.
While he might not have dozens of cards in every set, when Lockjaw does appear, it's usually a standout. He's often depicted mid-teleport, or loyally by the side of Black Bolt or Crystal, showcasing his powers and his bond with the Royal Family. These cards are sought after not just by Inhumans collectors, but by anyone who appreciates the more unusual characters in the Marvel Universe. There's a certain charm to a giant, teleporting dog that just resonates.
Here at Northland Legendary Finds, we've had the pleasure of seeing Lockjaw grace some fantastic sets over the years. You can find Lockjaw featured on 3 trading cards across 0 sets in the Northland Legendary Finds collection, including: his classic appearance in the 1993 Fleer Marvel Universe Series 4 set, where he's often seen alongside the Inhumans; a more modern, dynamic shot in the 2016 Upper Deck Marvel Masterpieces set, showcasing his power; and a charming, character-focused card in the 2020 Upper Deck Marvel Ages set. Each of these cards captures a different facet of his personality and powers, making them must-haves for any serious collector.
Why Collectors Love Lockjaw
So, why the enduring affection for a giant, teleporting bulldog? It's simple: Lockjaw embodies loyalty, power, and the sheer, delightful weirdness that makes the Marvel Universe so special. He's a dog, yes, but he's also a hero, a guardian, and an indispensable member of one of Marvel's most fascinating families. He's a character who can be both incredibly powerful and utterly endearing. His design is instantly recognizable, and his abilities are visually spectacular, making for fantastic comic book panels and, of course, incredible trading card art.
For collectors, a Lockjaw card isn't just about rarity or value; it's about owning a piece of that unique Marvel magic. It's about celebrating a character who proves that even the most unexpected heroes can be the most vital. He's a reminder that family comes in all shapes and sizes, and sometimes, your best friend can teleport you across the universe. And that, my friends, is why Lockjaw will always be a legendary find in any collection.
