Camping Dogs Northern California

Backpacking from Northern California to Arizona?
Im leaving in a week to backpack down to arizona. Im bringing my dog, camping gear, and backpack. Mind is already made.So dont bother discouraging. What I would like is some advice thgouh. thank you!
Stay high as long as you possibly can
Good luck
Edit
What I meant was when you get south and the weather starts getting hotter pick routes that keep you at higher elevations and therefor cooler temps .What did you think I meant ?
Peter Buchanan-Smith