Meiken Cheese, known as Cheese, is a dog living at Uncle Jam's bakery. Rescued as a starving puppy in the forest by Anpanman on his first patrol, Cheese was brought to the bakery and named by Batako-san.

He is a small, light brown dog with short rabbit-shaped ears and a dark brown tail tip. Earlier artwork in manga and picture books showed his ears as darker than his body. His design evolved; initially walking on four legs, he later often stands upright but retains canine postures. He lives in an outdoor loaf-shaped doghouse with bowls.

Cheese understands human speech and performs tasks skillfully, communicating only through barks others comprehend due to familiarity and his reputation as a wise dog. His personality mixes loyalty with comic silliness and dramatic flair. He possesses a large appetite, devouring meals with gusto. Brave, he accompanies Anpanman into danger and often carries replacement heads. While helpful with bakery chores, he sometimes tries lazily to avoid work.

He provides support at the bakery and on patrols, driving the Anpanman-go vehicle. His keen senses make him first to detect SOS signals with his sharp hearing and track scents effectively. He shares a close bond with Butterko (Batako-san) and a romantic connection with Rare Cheese, associated with Usako.

In broader stories, like the film "Soreike! Anpanman: Yūreisen o Yattsukero!!," Cheese appears with the core cast. His established origin, traits, and role remain unchanged across all media.