More: Rudolph of Tall Pines b.k.a. Rudy or "Root Root" is all Golden! Technically, he is my parents' dog, but I helped pick him out and gave him his name. Although I live in my own home, I am still very much a part of his life. At 8 weeks, his ears were quite red or ruddy compared to his very light body. Ergo the name, Rudolph, as in the red-eared Golden. I only call him Rudolph when he's being ornery. His papa was the color of an Irish Setter and his mama was a cream. They say that as Golden Retrievers age they become the color of their ears.. He grew to be a beautiful golden, apricot color. He brings my parents and I great joy. He lives to romp and run in the woods, loves to dock dive, swim (especially in the ocean and ponds near our homes) and open presents at Christmas. He is loyal and spoiled and always happy, unless it's past his walk time. His language skills and understanding are phenomenal and his favorite foods are romaine and whipped cream. P.S. (Side note: We lost our first Golden, Reggie, to hemangiosarcoma. Tragic loss. We were devastated. My father supports the Morris Foundation. Their research and fight to find a cure is dear to our heart. Godspeed!)