Internet Icon Cheems Passes at 12: Clearing Up the Dogecoin Connection

The crypto community mourned this week as Cheems, the beloved Shiba Inu who became a household name through viral meme culture, departed at age 12. The dog succumbed following complications during thoracentesis surgery on a Friday morning. According to posts from Cheems’ owner, the canine had been battling cancer, with medical interventions planned including possible chemotherapy, but the pup’s health took a final turn during the procedure.

The Mix-Up: Cheems vs. Kabosu

A wave of confusion swept through crypto circles following news of Cheems’ death, with many mistakenly believing the Dogecoin mascot had passed away. This misconception highlights an important distinction: Cheems was actually the internet persona of a dog named Balltze, while Kabosu remains the actual canine featured in the original Dogecoin meme. Both are Shiba Inu breeds with strikingly similar appearances, which explains why the error gained traction across social media and crypto forums.

Who Is Kabosu? The Real Doge Behind the Coin

Kabosu, still living, was rescued from harsh conditions at a puppy mill before being adopted by Atsuko Sato, a Japanese kindergarten teacher. Sato named the dog after a Japanese citrus fruit, unaware that her beloved pet would eventually become the face of a multi-billion dollar cryptocurrency movement.

The iconic “doge” meme exploded in December 2013, becoming a defining internet moment. Inspired by this viral sensation and seeking a tongue-in-cheek alternative to Bitcoin (BTC), two programmers launched Dogecoin as a joke cryptocurrency. What started as a lighthearted project eventually gained serious traction, particularly after high-profile support from entrepreneurs like Elon Musk, who has repeatedly championed DOGE on social media platforms.

The coin’s cultural impact extended beyond crypto—Dogecoin secured sponsorship deals, including a partnership with England’s Watford Football Club, with Kabosu’s image emblazoned on team jerseys.

Current Market Performance

As of the latest data, DOGE trades at $0.15, reflecting a +7.66% surge over the past 24 hours. Meanwhile, Bitcoin maintains its position at $91.43K, showing the broader market dynamics affecting digital assets.

Cheems’ passing marks the end of an era for one of the internet’s most recognizable animal personalities, though the legacy of meme culture in the crypto space continues to evolve through Kabosu and others.