These dogs were used to herd reindeer in Siberia, guard against predators, such as bears, and keep children warm at night. The breed have also been gifts to and from kings and queens in the past.
These dogs are great with children, bonding tightly and patiently. They are very social and intelligent enough to get into trouble. They can be stubborn and tend to bark and dig. They have a tendency to try to herd small children.