Hair of the Dog: Pooch Becomes Insta-famous

By Crystal Chung @crystalkchung

SPORTING everything from plaits to flower crowns and messy buns, this Japanese dog's hairstyles put the average It Girl to shame

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Videographer / Director: Damon Coulter
Producer: Tom Midlane, Nick Johnson
Editor: Ian Phillips

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Licking good: Stylish Kuma poses with her tongue out

Kuma, a Shih Tzu and Pekingese cross, has racked up more than 18,500 followers on her Instagram page which showcases her luscious locks.

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Chair of the dog: Yuki and Kuma sit for the camera at their home in Tokyo

Owner Yuki said: “I do Kuma’s hair on my own, it’s an original style. I get inspiration for the hairstyles from the internet.

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Pretty Kuma appears to smile for the camera while resplendent in a bow and hair clips
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Kuma is every bit the diva and prefers to be carried rather than to walk

"I originally saw a picture of a western model and I liked her hair so I just copied the style.”

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Every bit the social media star, Kuma is no stranger to a selfie

Yuki’s Instagram account is completely dedicated to her furry friend - and the pup is an absolute natural in front of the camera.

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It's a dog's life: Kuma relaxes on the bed complete with a pretty bow

As well as the hairstyles, Kuma - which means ‘bear’ in Japanese - has been expanding her range of looks to include cute dog hats and full costumes.

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The elegant canine has some kind of knot on her head in this unusual image

Kuma originally cost 150,000 Yen however owner Yuki said that she managed to buy her the adorable Shih Tzu and Pekingese for 50,000 Yen.

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Love is in the hair: Kuma's flowing locks create hearts

She said: “I first met Kuma at a pet shop. She cost 178,000 yen but I managed to get a discount and got her for 50,000 Yen.”

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Kuma tries out a more urban look by wearing a beanie hat
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Yuki and Kuma share a moment in their home in Tokyo

Yuki’s pet pooch can also be seen rocking several popular hairstyles such as a top bun, a double knot bun, inspired by Baby Spice and Kuma even reenacts Kendall Jenner’s famous heart-shaped hair snap.

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Kuma sets the benchmark for her social media rivals

Yuki spends hours a day on styling her glamorous pup and even sells Kuma greeting cards to her fans.