Mexico’s National Guard trains Chihuahua as mascot and rescue dog
Mexico’s National Guard has introduced Comando, a 13-month-old Chihuahua being trained as both a mascot and a search-and-rescue dog. The 7-kilogram pup has appeared at civic events and in an Independence Day parade, gaining public attention through images, animation and memes.
Mexico’s National Guard has introduced a Chihuahua named Comando as its smallest canine recruit, combining ceremonial duties with search-and-rescue training. The 13-month-old dog weighs seven kilograms and stands 21 centimetres tall. He has been equipped with miniature goggles, a tactical vest, a helmet and a small camera mounted on his head.
During training in Mexico City, Comando climbed stairs and crossed obstacles while a larger trained dog watched. Officers said he was being prepared not only as a mascot but also for search-and-rescue work. The National Guard adopted Comando about six months ago in the state of Chihuahua, which inspired his name.
His elderly owners had become unable to care for him. Lieutenant Debora Hernandez said the dog challenged the idea that only large breeds could serve in the force and helped create a warmer connection between the institution and the public. Comando now appears at civic ceremonies, school events and community programmes.
He is an outlier among the National Guard’s roughly 350 dogs, most of which are German shepherds, labradors and other traditional working breeds. Comando has already taken part in Mexico’s Independence Day parade and inspired an animated likeness and memes on social media. Officials said his public role also helped soften the image of the Army-controlled National Guard.
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