I have done plenty of spring and fall hiking, I limit my summer hikes to day trips because for me 85 to 90 degrees is just too hot to be out there. I would rather be mountain biking or on my boat wakeboarding. I am really interested in getting into winter backpacking. I have enough clothes to layer so clothes aren't a problem. I am just wondering about stuff I have never dealt with before, such as... do I need a 4 season tent, spikes, throat insulation? I currently have a hubba hubba and a 0 degree bag. I am not going to be getting out in blizzards but I want to be prepared for one. I also have a springer spaniel dog. He has long hair and I don't think he will have a problem with the cold but does anyone use a jacket for their dog? Does anyone out there use the dog shoes? What conditions would you recommend using those? Thanks for all the help in advance.