Is Shiba Inu a real cryptocurrency?

Could you please elaborate on the authenticity of Shiba Inu as a cryptocurrency? I've heard some buzz about it but am not entirely sure if it's a legitimate digital asset or just another fad. Is there a reliable blockchain it's built on? Are there any verifiable transactions or market capitalization figures to support its existence? Additionally, is it widely accepted in the crypto community, or is it more of a niche coin? Clarifying these points would greatly assist me in understanding the legitimacy of Shiba Inu as a cryptocurrency.