Thanks for showing us your family. That is the cutest dog ever! What breed is she? I can't work out if she has curly fur or if that's the blanket over her :D I've always thought lizards are adorable when they stick their tongues out like in your second picture. And they often look like they are smiling when they sunbathe. When it comes to rats I don't have much exposure but I believe you when you say they have their own definite personalities. I think all animals do really. It's a case of spending time with them and observing their ways.