Thanks for the imput. I was starting to think that no one would ever reply to my question.

Jake has a thick undercoat and sheds a lot (not abnormally so, just in 90 lb golden proportions).

I did not know, that I should keep his back dry. The last time, he was struggling on our walk, he was wet all over (swimming). I thought I was doing him good, by letting him cool off in the river. Next time, we will stick to the shallow stream for drinks and wading.

I was thinking the streams and the river were enough water for the walk, but I guess it is always a good idea to bring some cold H2O. I need to go buy something that can hold water, but is made for hands free activities, like walking and running.