Sounds like you're making good plans; 90% of roads are dirt and pothole-proof vehicles pay off, specially during mud season:)

Green Mountain Club should be up your alley if into hiking. The whole growing/veggies and animal husbandry thing is the next level if you're intending to actually homestead. Was just suggesting ways to meet/integrate that might be helpful.

Regarding dogs it appears you have a handle on that too; though I cannot stress E-collars (Garmin Sportdog Pro) highly enough, as they are a perfect way to communicate w/your pooch. Specially when they see 'squirrel' and go off on a mad chase. But to each their own.

Also, FWIW, local small taverns are cool too; specially if they hosts local musicians/bands. Also, was a time when VT had fantastic festivals - the reggae-fest for one. Tix were cheap, a don't miss event. That's kinda petered out, but be sure to check out Bread-n-Puppet events; worth a drive.

Stay green, stay toasty!