Freedom,

You've touched on something that's near and dear to my heart. that being "personalities". I've had a lot of animals in my life, and am continually amazed, flabbergasted, and pleased, with the vast diversification and individual characteristics of each. (ok, I admit I'm a Dog person).

I have for quite some time now, been very careful about "my" influence in raising one of my animals. I have often said "let them be Dogs", and beyond the basic training (recall/sit/stay) I try to coax out (most times by omission of directing them) their natural instincts. That is the key (IMHO) to their individual development of their personality.

And, excuse me for doing a little breast beating, but, I've had some very rewarding results, however, I readily admit, all I do is just open the door.