Kabosu, the Beloved Shiba Inu Behind the Doge Meme, Dead at 18
In 2013, as social media became a growing presence in many people's lives, one dog became the symbol of a new generation of memes. Kabosu, a Shiba Inu living in Japan, was the face of the "doge" meme, which led to the launching of the Dogecoin cryptocurrency later that year.
On May 24, Kabosu's owner Atsuko Sato announced her beloved dog's death at the age of 18. She shared the heartbreaking news in a social media post.
“To all of you who loved Kabosu, on the morning of the 24th of May, Kabosu crossed the rainbow bridge," Sato wrote. "Thank you all so much for your support over the years. She went very peacefully without suffering, as if falling asleep while feeling the warmth of my hands petting her."
"Thank you all so much for loving Kabosu all these years," she continued. "I am certain that Kabosu was the happiest dog in the world. That makes me the happiest owner in the world. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to everyone who has sent us much love to us."
Shiba Inus typical have a lifespan of between 12 and 15 years, so Kabosu lived quite a long and fulfilling life. Sato, a kindergarten teacher, adopted Kabosu in 2008 and frequently shared photos of their adventures on social media. The pup was so loved at home that the city of Sakura erected a bronze statue of the local celebrity in Sakura Furusato Square last year.
Kabosu recently received newfound recognition with the Dogecoin boom in 2021. The digital currency, like the meme and the statue, will ensure that her legacy lives on for years to come.
