A 13-month-old puppy joins Mexico’s National Guard. How a 15lb Chihuahua is training for search and rescue missions

Mexico’s National Guard, a federal militarised police force created in 2019 to handle public security and combat violent crime, recently welcomed a tiny member to its team. A 7 kg (15 lb) and 8 inches tall Chihuahua has been recruited by the force to carry our search and rescue missions. The pup, who has been named Commando, is now receiving training for the same.

All about Commando, Mexico’s National Guard recruit

A video of Commando, retrieved by Reuters, is now going viral across the internet. The clip shows the Chihuahua wearing a pair of miniature goggles, a ​fitted tactical vest, a black helmet and even a petite head-mounted camera.

In the footage, Commando is seen scampering downstairs, overcoming obstacles, training with the officers, as well as receiving cuddles from everyone. As per Lieutenant Debora Hernandez, Commando challenges the stereotype that only ig dogs can be recruited in the National Guard.

Commando’s journey

The Guardian reported that Commando previously lived with an elderly couple. No longer having the strength to take care of a pup, the couple took the Chihuahua to a rescue centre. From there, it was adopted by the security force six months later.

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Comando’s role extends beyond training exercises. He has also been making appearances at civic ceremonies, school functions and community outreach programmes, giving him a presence far beyond the National Guard’s regular operations.

How the Chihuahua is adapting to its environment

Commando’s small stature makes him particularly unusual within the force’s canine unit, which has around 350 dogs. Most of the animals belong to breeds traditionally associated with police and security work, including German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers.

Chihuahuas, despite being alert, energetic and highly expressive, are rarely associated with such demanding duties. Comando, however, has already marched alongside officers during Mexico’s Independence Day parade, drawing attention for his distinctly tiny appearance among the larger working dogs.

The Chihuahua’s popularity has also taken over social media, where his likeness has inspired animated versions and a growing collection of memes. From an unlikely recruit to a much-loved National Guard mascot, Comando’s journey has given the force a distinctly different four-legged star.