Cheren's Herdier made its first appearance in the anime in the Japanese opening for Best Wishes Season 2 Episode N when it was shown battling against Pikachu in the Aspertia Gym.
Cheren's Herdier battled against Ash's Oshawott in an exhibition match in the schoolyard battlefield. Ash's Oshawott appeared uncalled for out of its PokéBall and Ash Ketchum agreed to let it battle. Cilan couldn't believe how fast Cheren's Herdier was as it dodged Ash's Oshawott attacks. It also had the advantage against Ash's Oshawott as it knew the Electric type move Thunder Fang which was super effective. Ash's Oshawott was able to block it the first time with its Razor Shell but by the third time, it was hit from behind after recovering its shell which had been knocked away. The move knocked out Ash's Oshawott instantly giving Cheren the victory in the exhibition match.