Mexico's National Guard recruits Comando the chihuahua, who stands eight inches tall, as a search-and-rescue dog

From the Newshound archive · first published 30 September 2026 · last updated 1 October 2026.

Comando, a 13-month-old chihuahua weighing just 15lb and standing eight inches tall, has been taken on by Mexico's National Guard in a dual role — mascot and search-and-rescue dog. Clips of the pup at a Mexico City training session last week, wearing a tactical vest, goggles and a head-mounted camera, have spread across the world. Lieutenant Debora Hernandez says the force hopes Comando will remind the public that "beneath the uniform, we are human beings."

Comando was adopted by the National Guard six months ago in the border state of Chihuahua after an elderly couple could no longer care for him.

The tiny recruit has already appeared at school events, civic ceremonies and Mexico's Independence Day parade as the force seeks a friendlier public image.

Video of Comando scampering downstairs and cuddling officers has spread rapidly online, making him an instant global star.