Good idea with the Vaseline. However, just make sure you don't over due it. You want the pads to build up some hardness and callous (for lack of a better example) so that they can withstand some cold and some heat. Think back to being a kid and running barefoot. In the spring it would hurt, but by early summer the bottom of your feet were calloused a bit and could stand stepping on a pebble or too. Dogs paws need to be able to do the same thing. Certainly, like Archie, she does it to keep them from cracking but she also allows them to stay "tough". Sophie loves the snow and so does my Biewer. I just make sure they're not out too long. Ivan will refuse if it's too cold, but Sophie will stay out and roll around in the snow. If you click on the link below..you'll see what I mean!
http://i852.photobucket.com/albums/a...h_100_2420.jpg