Kabosu, the Shiba Inu famously known for her “much wow” face that inspired the Dogecoin cryptocurrency, passed away at the age of 18. She was adopted in 2008 by her owner Atsuko Sato, a kindergarten teacher, after her breeder went out of business. Kabosu quickly gained online fame when a photo of her with a mischievous expression went viral in 2010. This led to her becoming one of the most recognizable faces of the Doge meme, with her image being used in a variety of jokes and memes.
Her unique round face and calm temperament made Kabosu a favorite among her fans. Despite her health issues in recent years, including chronic lymphoma leukemia and acute cholangiohepatitis, Kabosu continued to bring joy to her more than 500,000 online followers. Her birthday on November 2 was celebrated as “Doge day,” and she lived happily with three other cats in her home in Sakura, Japan. Ms. Sato described Kabosu as a gentle and calm dog who loved being photographed and was beloved by her family.
Kabosu’s image was not only used in memes but also became the logo for Dogecoin, a cryptocurrency introduced as a joke in 2013. The meme coin experienced a surge in popularity in 2021, making some investors millionaires overnight before its eventual decline. Kabosu’s popularity transcended the online world, with lawmakers even using the Doge meme to express their discontent. The meme also spawned numerous spinoffs and remixes featuring other Shiba Inu dogs like Suki.
Despite her fame and the attention she received, Kabosu remained unfazed and appeared to enjoy the spotlight. Ms. Sato described her as a happy and content dog who loved her family and was cherished by all who knew her. Kabosu’s legacy as a beloved internet icon and inspiration for the Dogecoin cryptocurrency will live on, with her memory being celebrated through fan tributes and online remembrances. A farewell party was held for Kabosu in Narita following her passing, with Ms. Sato expressing gratitude for the joy and love Kabosu brought into her life.
Kabosu’s unexpected rise from a shelter dog to a global meme sensation was a testament to the power of the internet and the enduring impact of viral content. Her iconic expression and playful demeanor touched the hearts of millions around the world, making her a beloved figure in the online community. As news of her passing spread, tributes poured in from fans and followers who expressed their gratitude for the joy and laughter Kabosu brought into their lives. Her memory will continue to be honored through the enduring legacy of the Doge meme and the impact she had on popular culture.
