Cross, a white Saluki originally serving as a human hunting dog, survives a brutal attack by the bear Akakabuto that kills her fellow hounds and leaves her severely injured. Abandoned by her owner, she develops lasting distrust of humans while acknowledging exceptions like Daisuke's care for Gin. Slender in build with blue or brown eyes, she frequently wears a red collar in source material and a brown one in animated adaptations due to production choices.

Her strong-willed, brave nature earns acceptance into Riki's pack "as a true male" despite being female. A degree of short temper surfaces, especially toward Smith, who nurses unrequited feelings; she remains unaware of his affection for a long time, responding with sympathy upon discovery but unwavering devotion to Ben. She occasionally displays humor and playfulness yet maintains a tough exterior, contrasting with a soft spot for puppies and protective instincts toward younger dogs like Gin. Discomfort arises when her gender is emphasized, such as embarrassment during pregnancy, though she actively travels and fights while pregnant to support the pack, demonstrating loyalty and resilience.

In the initial story, she meets Gin when he commits to fighting Akakabuto, forging a friendship. She locates key allies for the conflict, including the Three Kai Brothers, Moss, Akame, and Benizakura. While pregnant, she swims to find Gin and later gives birth to Ken, George, and Minnie shortly before the final battle against Akakabuto, remaining with the puppies and Chibi during the fight. Post-battle, she and her pups are abducted by the wolf Retsuga but stay unharmed under Reima's custody until Ben and others secure their release. She remains in Ohu while Ben confronts the wolf lord Gaia.

Later narratives depict retirement in Kofu with Ben. When attacked by Hōgen's forces, she is rescued by sons Ken and George, prompting a return to Ohu. Akame guides them to Weed's base, and during the clash with Hōgen, she sustains non-fatal wounds shielding Ben and George. With age, she adopts a calmer demeanor, evident in gentle care for an aging, senile Ben, though she fights alongside Ohu dogs when necessary. Younger pack members affectionately call her "Grandma Cross" or "Auntie Cross," reflecting her respected elder status. She occasionally disciplines impulsive characters like Kurotora and Kyoshiro.

During natural disasters and conflicts in "Ginga Densetsu Weed: Orion," she supervises puppies and evacuates to mountain shelters after a volcanic eruption. She reunites with Unsai, an old friend who comments on her appearance, and later informs him of Ben's death. In "Ginga: The Last Wars," she attempts to lead young dogs and females to safety during an attack by Akakabuto's offspring but witnesses Lydia and her pups killed. Pursued by Monsoon's subordinate Bob, she overpowers him, slamming him to the ground. After he explains coercion by Monsoon, she offers him refuge in Ohu. She shelters with Daisuke's family, protects an injured Jerome, and later tends to Gin in his weakened state. She locates injured comrades like Tesshin and Ken, expressing pride in her sons as Ohu soldiers.