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Cheems

Cheems is an internet meme character based on Balltze, a Shiba Inu from Hong Kong.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Cheems is an internet meme character based on Balltze, a Shiba Inu from Hong Kong. The character became known on Reddit’s r/dogelore in 2019 for misspelling words with extra “m” letters and for jokes involving “cheemsburgers.”

Origin

Cheems originated from photographs of Balltze, a Shiba Inu from Hong Kong. Online meme use of the character began on Reddit’s r/dogelore subreddit in June 2019.

Characteristics

The meme’s humour comes from misspelled speech, especially the insertion of extra “m” letters into words. The character is also associated with the exaggerated term “cheemsburgers.”

Meme usage

Cheems is often used in comparison memes, particularly in side-by-side contrasts with Doge or Buff Doge. It is also connected to the Bonk meme format.

Later attention

After Balltze’s death in August 2023, the character received renewed public attention online. The meme remained widely recognized as part of Doge-related internet culture.

Key facts

  • Cheems is based on the real dog Balltze, a Shiba Inu from Hong Kong.
  • The meme was popularized on Reddit’s r/dogelore in June 2019.
  • Cheems is commonly depicted as speaking with extra “m” sounds, such as “cheemsburbger.”
  • The character is often used in contrast memes, especially alongside Doge or Buff Doge.
  • Balltze died in August 2023, which led to renewed attention to the meme.

Frequently asked questions

What is Cheems?
Cheems is an internet meme character based on the Shiba Inu Balltze, known for misspelled speech and Doge-related humour.
Who was the real dog behind Cheems?
The real dog was Balltze, a Shiba Inu from Hong Kong, also nicknamed Ball Ball.
When did Cheems first appear online?
The meme first appeared on Reddit’s r/dogelore in June 2019.
Why is it called Cheems?
The name is linked to the character’s association with “cheemsburgers,” a humorous misspelling of cheeseburgers.
What is Cheems known for saying?
Cheems is known for adding extra “m” letters into words, creating a distinctive speech pattern.
Is Cheems related to Doge?
Yes. Cheems is part of the Doge meme family and is often used in contrast with Doge or Buff Doge.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cheems
    Supports: Identifies Balltze as the real dog behind Cheems, gives the Hong Kong origin, and notes the June 2019 r/dogelore appearance.
  2. Know Your Meme — https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/cheems
    Supports: Describes Cheems as a Doge character, explains the misspelling style, and notes first appearance on r/dogelore in June 2019.
  3. The Daily Dot — https://dailydot.com/cheems-meme
    Supports: Summarizes Cheems as a Shiba Inu meme character and notes Balltze’s death in August 2023.
  4. Know Your Meme — https://knowyourmeme.com/memes/bonk-cheems
    Supports: Explains the Bonk (Cheems) meme format.