Oh the trials of having dogs! Would love to see a picture! I had an Irish when I was younger, and now have 3 English Setters, Llewellens... the smaller ones. Sofie and Maddie are in my avatar.
We ususally have to "mold" some cheese around any pills that they take. Thank goodness we don't have to much trouble with fleas around here. Try letting Dixie eat a little of her food, then "stick it down her throat" and then let her have the rest of her food. It may work!