Picture a military working dog, and what springs to mind? A Belgian Malinois? A cocker Spaniel? Perhaps a black Labrador?
Forget everything you know and think smaller – and smaller again – as Comando the Chihuahua begins his training to fulfil his canine dream of becoming the smallest member of Mexico's National Guard.
Equipped with protective glasses, a custom-fitted tactical vest and a small camera on his head, the four-legged recruit is being trained for search and rescue missions and to help build a friendlier image of the security force amid ongoing debate over its increasingly military role.
Pint-sized patrol
At 13 months old - and that's old enough to join the military if we're talking human years - and weighing just 7kg, Comando was pictured climbing stairs and jumping over obstacles during an intensive training session, proving size is no obstacle.
His journey into the ranks is something of a Cinderella story, after he was adopted six months ago by officers after an elderly couple could no longer take care of him.
The Mexican National Guard has a canine force comprising roughly 350 animals, dominated by working breeds, including those found in the UK ranks, such as the German shepherd and Belgian Malinois.
The latter is a breed that BFBS Forces News know all too well, having experienced first-hand what it's like to be taken down by the military working dog.
Chihuahuas, of course, are not exactly the first choice for apprehending suspects, and they may lack the intimidation factor of their larger colleagues, but they do excel in specialised talents.
These include scent detection, search and rescue, and, in the case of Comando, public relations.
He accompanies troops at civic events, school fairs and community outreach activities and recently participated in the commemorative parade for Mexico's Independence Day in the capital.
So remember: It's not the size of the dog in the fight; it's the size of the fight in the dog.
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