Although we have little information on Pontiac's early life, it is fair to assume that he would have led a fairly typical Ottawa boyhood. Ottawa boys lived a rather free lifestyle. They had few tasks and were often out playing with one another. At a later age, the Ottawa boy began learning woodcraft and then hunting. The Ottawa boy would also become an expert with the tools and weapons introduced by the Europeans. The skills he acquired were invaluable for life in the region.

A boy's first kill, no matter how big or small, required a feast at which all present sampled the meat and praised the boy's efforts. Ottawa traditions and customs were an integral part of a boy's upbringing. From an early age he learned the principle values of Ottawa culture. Knowledge was passed down orally and almost exclusively consisted of practical information.

Chieftainship among the Ottawas was not hereditary. The son of a chief could only succeed his father if he proved able to be a leader.

The Ottawa boy trained to be a warrior early in life. The greatest lessons would come when he accompanied a war party on a raid. However, teachings went beyond the particulars of war. An Ottawa youth was taught justice, spirituality, diplomacy, and even courting.

Marriage often took place around the age of 20. There was little pressure when it came to finding a mate. However, once two people had decided to marry, the young man was obliged to give the bride-to-be's parents lavish presents. People who shared a totem were considered close kin; a boy would never marry someone belonging to the same totem/clan. The Ottawas were not, however, monogamists. It was not uncommon for some men to have more than two wives. Infidelity, though, was considered a despicable and disgraceful act.