In childhood and adolescence was somewhat spoiled by his mother and older brothers, inclined to luxury, but was "courageous, powerful and quick in battle" that was recognized even by the family's enemies.
As the youngest male offspring, Temüge and his mother, by Mongol traditions, were allotted the most land and people by Genghis Khan during his coronation.
However, Temüge was a skilled politician and capable ruler, who, alongside his mother Hoelun, ruled the Mongol heartland in his elder brothers' absence while they engaged in military campaigns.
At that time, Ogedei's son Güyük Khan was engaged in the "Western campaign" in Russia and Europe.
Temuge-otchigin tried to seize the throne, but was prevented by Töregene, Ogedei's widow and Güyük's mother.