Balltze: The Shiba Inu Behind the “Cheems” Meme
Kabosu’s sideways glance created “Doge.” A few years later, a Hong Kong Shiba Inu named Balltze created its irreverent sequel — and became just as recognizable without most fans ever learning his real name.
Who Balltze was
Balltze was a Shiba Inu adopted at around age one by Kathy, a fashion designer based in Kowloon, Hong Kong. His Instagram account documented an ordinary dog’s life — until one photograph, posted on September 4, 2017, of Balltze looking unimpressed with his head tilted down, took on a life of its own.
How “Cheems” became a meme
That photo surfaced on Reddit’s r/dogelore in mid-2019 and exploded in 2020, paired with a muscular, “buff” cartoon body as an ironic contrast to the dog’s unbothered expression. Fans nicknamed the character “Cheems,” distinct from Kabosu’s original “Doge,” and it spread into memes, merchandise, and — during the 2020s crypto boom — became the mascot for several dog-themed cryptocurrencies that had no connection to Balltze or his owner.
His passing
Balltze died on August 18, 2023, at age 12, after being diagnosed with cancer; his death came during treatment to drain fluid from his chest. Kathy announced his passing to the hundreds of thousands of followers who had watched him for years, most of whom knew him only as “Cheems.”
Balltze is part of the internet’s meme royalty alongside Kabosu — read both of their stories in our guide to the internet’s most famous dogs.
Frequently asked questions
What breed is Cheems (Balltze)?
Balltze, the dog behind the “Cheems” meme, was a Shiba Inu from Kowloon, Hong Kong, owned by fashion designer Kathy.
Is “Cheems” the same dog as “Doge”?
No — they are different Shiba Inus. “Doge” is Kabosu, a Japanese Shiba Inu. “Cheems” is Balltze, a separate Hong Kong Shiba Inu whose photo became a related but distinct meme format years later.
Did Balltze the dog pass away?
Yes. Balltze died on August 18, 2023, at age 12, after a battle with cancer.
