Raccoon Dog

The raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) is a raccoon-like canid found in Asia. It is raised for its fur.

Japanese mythology

For a more detailed treatment, see Tanuki.
In Japanese mythology, tanuki are thought of as being mischievous shapeshifters, being able to transform into inanimate objects as well as humans. A well-known anime film from Studio Ghibli which features tanuki is the film Pom Poko, directed by Isao Takahata.