This is one of the most beloved breeds and few breeds deserve this high level of popularity. When properly trained, it is obedient and good natured. It’s a calm house dog, playful in the yard and is eager to learn and please. They are social dogs that thrive within a family and tolerate other dogs and pets. 

They were originally bred as a water dog to assist fisherman by pulling small fishing boats through icy water, retrieving fish and other tasks that involved swimming. Because of their willingness to please, they are successful service dogs in areas such assisting the blind, search and rescue, and for law enforcement searching for narcotics.