This adorable face belongs to a tanuki, often called a raccoon dog outside of Japan. Despite the name, it is neither a raccoon nor a dog. Well, it is a canid, but not closely related to wolves or domestic dogs. It's more like a distant cousin of the fox. Native to Japan, tanukis have some adaptations that you wouldn't expect from a canine, like the ability to climb trees, and hibernate in cold climates while not hibernating in milder areas. They live in underground burrows and are monogamous.
While raccoon dogs do not make good pets, tanukis have learned to live in urban areas like raccoons. They are popular figures in Japanese art and folklore, going back hundreds of years. Tanukis are portrayed as mischievous sprites that can shapeshift, a reputation that probably reflects their shy and nocturnal nature. Read about the tanuki and see plenty of pictures at The Ark in Space.
(Image credit: Cloudtail the Snow Leopard)