How old is the DOGE dog?

I'm curious, can you tell me how long the Doge dog has been around for? I've been seeing its name associated with the cryptocurrency world and I'm wondering if it has a long history or if it's a more recent addition to the scene. Is there any specific reason why it's become so popular and recognizable as a mascot for the DOGE cryptocurrency? I'm eager to learn more about its origins and significance in the world of digital currencies.