Thanks for all your help.
After your pointers and a lot more research I think I will leave it stock height. Not convinced cranking on the keys is the right solution, as it messes with suspension geometry and travel. Next step up would be a 3-4 inch lift kit, and probably wheels, etc. This project would quickly get out of hand. Not to mention my wife reminded me I would end up having to build a ramp for the dog to get in.) I will just save the $ for a quad or something. I will go on easy trails with the burb.