The Crypto Community Mourns the Loss of Cheems: When Memes and Markets Intersect

Cheems Balltze, the Shiba Inu dog behind the viral "cheemsburger" meme, passed away peacefully in his sleep on August 18 following a battle with cancer. The beloved canine was just 12 years old at the time of his passing.

This particular dog breed holds special significance in cryptocurrency circles as the inspiration behind popular tokens like Shiba Inu (SHIB) and Dogecoin (DOGE), which have gained massive followings among retail investors and prominent figures in the tech world.

"Don't be sad, please remember the joy that Balltze brought to the world," read a heartfelt message posted on Cheems' Instagram page on August 18. "A round face with a smile connects you and me, he helped many people during the pandemic, and brought a lot of joy to many of you, but now his mission has been completed."

The Legacy of a Digital Icon

Unlike Kabosu—the dog featured in the original Doge meme that inspired Dogecoin—Cheems created his own distinctive presence in internet culture. He frequently appeared alongside Doge in various meme formats, including the popular "Swole Doge vs. Cheems" template. While Kabosu is expected to celebrate her 18th birthday in October despite facing serious health issues, Cheems' journey has come to an end. The original Doge meme became an internet sensation in 2013, ultimately leading to the creation of Dogecoin that same year.

Crypto Community's Response

The loss of Cheems has resonated deeply within cryptocurrency communities, with many expressing their condolences and celebrating his cultural impact. The Dogecoin Foundation shared their sentiments:

"We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Balltze, affectionately known as 'Ball Ball' and more broadly across the internet as 'Cheems.' The Dogecoin community and the internet at large mourn the loss of a precious Shiba Inu who inspired millions around the world."

Since the earliest days of cryptocurrency, animal memes—from cats to dolphins—have formed the foundation for numerous token projects. Beyond the digital realm, some animal shelters have embraced DOGE and other cryptocurrencies as a means to encourage spaying and neutering programs for cats and dogs, demonstrating real-world applications of these meme-inspired assets.

The legacy of Cheems continues to live on in the cryptocurrency market, where meme-based tokens have demonstrated remarkable staying power. According to market data, the meme coin sector grew to a substantial $68.49 billion market capitalization between 2023 and 2025, driven largely by community engagement and continued interest from retail investors.

For cryptocurrency enthusiasts and casual observers alike, Cheems represents more than just an internet joke—he symbolizes how digital culture can transcend into financial markets, creating communities and movements that extend far beyond their humble origins.