A 13-month-old Chihuahua named Comando is helping Mexico’s National Guard connect with the public, becoming its smallest canine member and an unusual addition to the country’s K9 force.
Weighing about seven kilograms and standing 21 centimetres tall, Comando has been fitted with miniature protective goggles, a tactical vest and a small camera as he trains alongside larger working dogs in Mexico City.
Comando was adopted about six months ago after an elderly couple brought him to authorities in the northern state of Chihuahua because they could no longer care for him.
“He is an adopted dog,” said National Guard Lieutenant Debora Hernandez.
“To this day he helps us with community outreach activities.”
Unlike the National Guard’s larger working dogs, Comando is not currently used for operational duties. Instead, he accompanies officers at civic events, school fairs and other public activities.
Hernandez said his small size helps encourage people to approach officers, pet the dog and start conversations with members of the National Guard.
“He comes to break that paradigm that only large dogs can be part of the National Guard Corporation,” she said.
Comando has learned basic obedience commands and recently took part in Mexico’s Independence Day parade in the capital.
Hernandez said his presence is intended to help change perceptions of the security force by encouraging closer contact between officers and civilians.
The National Guard has a canine force of about 350 dogs, including Belgian Malinois, German Shepherds, Dutch Shepherds, Labradors and Mexico’s Xoloitzcuintli.
While those breeds are commonly used for security, detection and other operational tasks, Comando's role is focused on community outreach.
“He helps us to build better trust with the community,” Hernandez said, adding that officers want members of the public to see the people behind the uniforms and feel able to speak with them.
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