"Woof Woof, I’m a Military Dog Too"... Chihuahua Becomes Mascot of Mexican National Guard

Unable to Participate in Complex Operations
Plays a Key Role in Improving the National Guard's Image
Gaining Popularity as a Viral Meme on SNS

The image of a small Chihuahua serving as a member of the Mexican National Guard is going viral and gaining popularity on social networking services (SNS).

According to Reuters on September 30 (local time), the National Guard, which is part of the Mexican military, has adopted a Chihuahua as an official member in an effort to present a more approachable image to citizens. Since then, the Chihuahua has been fulfilling its role remarkably well.

Chihuahua Commando serving as a member of the Mexican National Guard. Photo by Reuters Yonhap News.

About six months ago, the National Guard adopted the Chihuahua from a family who could no longer care for the pet due to the owner's advanced age. Now 13 months old, the Chihuahua has been named "Comando" and is serving as a proud member of the National Guard.

Comando stands only 21 centimeters tall and weighs just 7 kilograms, making it unsuitable for difficult operations like those undertaken by typical military dogs such as Shepherds or Labradors. Instead, Comando takes part in community events, school gatherings, and local outreach activities, helping to soften the National Guard's otherwise rigid image.

Chihuahua Commando serving as a member of the Mexican National Guard. Photo by Reuters and Yonhap News.

The media reported that Comando is equipped with miniature goggles, a custom tactical vest, a helmet, and even a tiny head-mounted camera. In addition to acting as the mascot for the National Guard, Comando is also being trained to participate in search and rescue activities.

Comando attracted public attention by appearing at numerous events, including the Mexican Independence Day parade. Comando has become popular on SNS, inspiring memes—current online trends—that are widely shared.

Lieutenant Debra Hernandez of the National Guard said that Comando has challenged the preconception that only large dogs can serve in the National Guard. She added, "There is a stereotype that military-style organizations cannot build warm relationships with people, but the presence of Comando reminds everyone that even those of us in uniform are human beneath it all."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.