I am sure that this has a lot to do with nurture over nature, but I love my swedish ducks. They are not opposed to being held, but would rather be on the ground (which I don't mind, not a huge snuggler). Their personalities are just really fun. This is anecdotal of course, but I have found them to be much smarter and active than my pekins (one of the pekins is almost 5 months old and still forgets how to use the ramp for the pool). I did take them outside a lot when they were young, and we would walk around the yard and hunt strawberries for a while. They would follow me everywhere. I think that regardless of the breed, if you leave them in the brooder all day and dont interact with them then they will be more likely to fear you. If you are looking for a pet, I think all the breeds people have posted so far are great and I would throw in swedish and call ducks as well. Of course if you are looking for meat, eggs, and temperment then the pekin and muscovy cant be beat. Call ducks are extra great for pets because their size is a huge plus as far as cleanup and waste goes. It really depends on what you want, because with the right care and love all the ducks listed in this thread so far are great.