The process of domestication took place outside the territory of Latvia. Nowadays, it is assumed that this occurred in Siberia or North America. It is possible that this happened around the same time in various regions approximately 15 thousand years ago.

The first humans in Latvian territory—reindeer hunters—established temporary settlements, following migrating animal herds. In the Stone Age Zvejnieki burial ground near Lake Burtnieks, necklaces strung with dog teeth have been found. Dog bones were identified in the settlement nearby. Often, just like humans, dogs were also buried within the settlement area.

As for attitudes, certain Stone Age communities treated dogs almost as equals to humans. They were valuable members of the kin group. The dog not only guarded the community's living space but was also particularly important in securing game. The survival of the community depended on successful hunting in the presence of the dog.