Meiken Cheese, also known as Cheese the wise dog or Cheese the super watchdog, originates from the Anpanman universe. His background starts with being rescued as a lost, starving puppy in the forest by a young Anpanman during his first patrol; Anpanman fed him part of his own head to alleviate his hunger. Batako-san then named him "Cheese" upon his arrival at Uncle Jam's bakery, where he took up residence in a distinctive loaf-shaped doghouse equipped with food and water bowls.

Physically, Cheese is a small, light brown dog featuring short, rabbit-like ears and a dark brown tip on his tail. Early artistic depictions in manga and picture books showed his ears in a darker shade of brown than his body. His posture evolved over time from primarily moving on four legs to frequently standing and walking upright on two legs, though he retains typical canine sitting and sleeping behaviors.

Cheese exhibits high intelligence, understanding human language and performing tasks on par with other characters, yet he communicates exclusively through barks. Other characters comprehend his vocalizations through mutual familiarity and his status as a "wise dog." His personality blends comedic and courageous traits: he serves as comic relief through over-dramatic and silly behavior but demonstrates bravery by charging into danger to assist Anpanman. He is often responsible for carrying or throwing Anpanman's replacement heads during battles. Despite this heroism, he displays laziness, particularly in avoiding bakery chores, and possesses a notably large appetite.

His primary ability is an acute sense of smell, enabling him to track scents, locate individuals, and detect SOS signals, often making him the first to identify emerging threats or distress calls. Within the bakery, he assists with baking and other duties, though his dedication fluctuates. His relationships include a close bond with Butterko and Batako-san, a foundational connection with Anpanman as his rescuer and companion, and a romantic affiliation with Rare Cheese.

Across the franchise, Cheese appears consistently in episodes and multiple films, including *Soreike! Anpanman: Black Nose to Mahō no Uta*, *Soreike! Anpanman: Kyouryuu Nosshii no Daibouken*, *Soreike! Anpanman: Buruburu no Takarasagashi Daibouken!*, and *Soreike! Anpanman: Yumeneko no Kuni no Nyanii*. His role remains integral to the core group, involving baking assistance, patrols, and participation in adventures.