Is it safe to open my dog's medication capsule for administration?

As long as she is getting the full dose, there is no cause for concern. If breaking them open and pouring out the contents works, then so be it. You are not doing anything wrong. You can try Pill Pockets, which can be found in the local Petco or you can hide the capsule in a piece of hot dog.

Hello, thank you for your question. As a general rule I try to avoid breaking open capsules and spreading them on the food as this could mean that your dog doesn't always get the exact amount of medication. For example, if your dog didn't finish all of his meal how would you know exactly how much of the pimobendan medication he had received. To help your dog with the larger capsules you could try hiding it in a slice of deli meat/cheese or could try some peanut butter. Another option would be to try creating a small meatball of canned food with the capsule in the middle. Hope this helps!

It may not be as effective if you open the capsule. The reason for this is that the capsules have an acid-resistant coating which prevents break down in the stomach and allows for absorption in the intestines. So if you open it, the probiotics will be destroyed in the stomach likely.

You certainly can. Make sure the food is mixed well as the medication can have a bitter taste. If your dog detects it, he may not eat the food. If he will allow it, slide it as far back in his mouth as you can then hold his muzzle closed as you stroke his throat. Once you see him lick his nose, you'll know he swallowed the capsule. Praise him and offer a small treat afterwards.

Doxycycline should be taken whole or immediately before food to ensure it is swallowed into the stomach, it should then be followed by a drink to ensure it is washed down. It can cause painful ulcers in the upper GI tract if it lodges here and is not taken directly to the stomach

It depends on the medication but typically the powder is in a capsule for a reason (to protect the medicine until it gets to the part of the GI tract where it is to be dissolved). So, it is usually best to give the medication in the form that it comes in. If you want to post again and tell us what medication you are referring to we may be able to help you better.

It is very nice of you to care for homeless dogs. Under the pet info, it indicates "cat" but I am going to assume it meant dog based on what you wrote. Usually the best way to administer medications to dogs is by sneaking them into some food or a treat. This can be done with both liquid meds as well as capsules and tablets. Do not try to stick pills into Pillu's mouth, as he may have an unknown vaccination history and you would be at risk for a contracting a disease.