Japan’s Shiba Inu Police Inspector Wins Hearts While Promoting Community Safety
Mamesuke the Shiba Inu is back on duty!
Japan’s Yokkaichi Minami Police Station has officially recommissioned its beloved 5-year-old Shiba Inu, Mamesuke, for another year of service as their honorary Inspector.
Since 2023, Mamesuke has been more than just a cute face—he’s joined school route patrols, helped raise awareness about traffic safety, and even campaigned to prevent fraud in the community. Now, with his official certificate in paw, he’s back to continue his important work.
The police shared on X:
“We held an appointment ceremony for our public relations dog, Mamesuke. This gentle, friendly, and charming ‘police officer dog’ will be raising awareness about preventing special fraud and promoting traffic safety. Early morning street patrols are also planned for April 9th along school routes. Together with Mamesuke, we will work to protect the safety and security of the community ”
Mamesuke’s next appearance is set for a morning street safety campaign at a local school route, proving that sometimes a friendly face (or fluffy paw!) can make safety messages more approachable—especially for kids and the elderly.
Not your typical officer, but definitely one everyone will remember!
【四日市南署から】
— 三重県警察広報室 (@Mpp_mie) April 3, 2026
広報犬「豆助（まめすけ）」の委嘱式を行いました 温和で人なつっこくて愛嬌たっぷりの「犬のおまわりさん」が、特殊詐欺被害防止や交通安全などを呼びかけていきます ４月９日、通学路で早朝街頭指導も実施予定 豆助とともに地域の安全安心を守っていきます pic.twitter.com/QdjJ6XH3mN
Japan has a history of promoting different kinds of dogs to police departments. Years ago, a toy poodle joined the police as a canine sniffer dog, searching for contraband. You can read about that dog here.