Gorgeous!
DNA, I feel you on the wolf. They're so cool, and really iconic, but they're underpowered. Even a dog is better.
I went ahead and took one as my companion anyways because of the thematic reasons - cleric of Odin and all - but warbeast will be a godsend.
If your build can handle it, a dip into the Beastmaster prestige class is a quick and easy boost to your companion. One level effectively gets you Natural Bond - a +3 to your EDL - but unlike with Natural Bond, your EDL can actually exceed your character level. It's exceptioal for druids as a result, whereas Natural Bond is more like Practiced Spellcaster, more effective for rangers or multiclass druids. It'll still cost you a feat to get, as the PRC requires Skill Focus: Handle Animal though.
I'll look into some other animal companion stuff for you. I swear there was another nifty way to boost them, but it didn't work for my build so it went right out of my head.