5 Common Dog Care Challenges and How to Resolve Them

Even the most well-trained and well-behaved dogs can sometimes be uncooperative or reluctant, making certain care tasks more challenging for owners. Understanding and managing these common difficulties with patience and knowledge is a key part of responsible dog ownership.

This article explores five frequent dog care challenges faced by owners in the UK in 2025 and offers step-by-step guidance on how to resolve them while promoting your dog's well-being and comfort.

1. Cleaning Your Dog’s Teeth Properly

Dental health is crucial to your dog’s overall well-being, helping to prevent bad breath, gum disease, and other problems. However, tooth brushing can be challenging if your dog is not used to it.

Step 1: Get Your Dog Used to the Process

• Introduce the dog-specific toothpaste and toothbrush by letting your dog smell and lick them to become familiar.
• Teach a positioning cue such as "chin" so your dog places their chin on your palm, helping keep them steady during brushing.

Step 2: Choose the Right Tools

• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush designed for dogs or a silicone finger toothbrush.
• Only use toothpaste formulated for dogs, as human toothpaste can be harmful if swallowed.

Step 3: Position for Comfort

Select a quiet, comfortable spot where your dog feels relaxed, ensuring you can access their teeth easily.

Step 4: Start Brushing

• Gently lift your dog’s lip to expose the teeth.
• Apply a small amount of toothpaste to the brush.
• Brush in gentle circular motions concentrating on the gum line and the outer surfaces of the teeth.

Step 5: Progress Gradually

Begin with the front teeth and slowly work back, keeping sessions short and positive to avoid stress.

Step 6: Reward and Be Patient

Offer praise and treats to create positive associations, and persevere patiently as it may take time for your dog to become comfortable with tooth cleaning.

Additional Tips

• Consider adjuncts like dental sprays, gels, dental chews or treats for supplementary oral care.
• Aim to brush at least once a week for optimal dental health and observe your dog’s body language for signs of discomfort.

2. Clipping Your Dog’s Nails Safely

Many dogs find nail clipping unusual or distressing. Accidental clipping of the quick—a sensitive area within the nail—can make future trims more difficult.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Prepare the environment: Gather appropriate dog nail clippers, styptic powder or cornflour, treats, and a comfortable surface.
• Calm your dog: Trim nails after physical activity when your dog is relaxed. Ensure a quiet space with good lighting.
• Introduce the clippers: Let your dog sniff and explore them to reduce anxiety.
• Examine the nails: Identify the quick; it is more visible on light nails. For dark nails, trim small amounts to avoid hitting the quick.
• Trim safely: Hold the paw firmly, cut small amounts at a 45-degree angle, taking breaks to manage anxiety.
• Reward and check: Praise and treat your dog after each clip. If bleeding occurs, apply styptic powder and gentle pressure.

Professional groomers or vets can assist nervous dogs, and regular trimming reduces the risk of quick overgrowth.

3. Giving Your Dog a Pill

Administering pills can be tricky if your dog refuses to take medication disguised in food or when pills can’t be given with food.

Safe Pill Giving Steps

• Read the medicine instructions carefully regarding dosage and food compatibility.
• Calm your dog in a safe space; holding smaller dogs on your lap can help control them.
• Remove pill packaging to prepare.
• Gently hold your dog’s muzzle to open their mouth; place the pill far back on their tongue to trigger swallowing.
• Close the mouth gently, hold it closed, and encourage swallowing by rubbing the throat or blowing lightly on the nose.
• Reward your dog immediately with praise or a treat to create positive associations.

Alternatives

Use pill pockets or hide medication in safe foods like cheese or ham where appropriate, or employ a pill popper or crushing methods with veterinary approval.

4. Bathing Your Dog Calmly and Safely

Bathing can be stressful for dogs, especially if they are anxious or active. Preparation, gentle handling, and a calm environment are key to success.

Step-by-Step Bathing

• Choose a secure location such as a walk-in shower or bathtub with a non-slip mat, or an enclosed outdoor area.
• Gather shampoo, conditioner, towels, and cotton balls to protect ears.
• Brush your dog beforehand to remove mats.
• Use lukewarm water to wet your dog, avoiding sensitive areas such as eyes and ears.
• Apply dog-friendly shampoo starting behind ears and moving down the body.
• Rinse thoroughly to remove all shampoo and apply conditioner likewise.
• Dry your dog completely to prevent moisture-related skin issues.

Additional Tips

• Use treats or lick mats to keep your dog distracted and reward calm behaviour.
• Maintain patience and positive reinforcement to build confidence with bathing.

5. Introducing New Harnesses and Equipment Gently

Collars alone may suffice for some dogs, but others benefit from harnesses, coats, or booties. Introducing these new items requires a patient, gradual approach to ensure your dog accepts them comfortably.

Step-by-Step Introduction

• Allow your dog to explore the new equipment by sight and smell without pressure; reward calm curiosity with treats.
• Gradually acclimate them to any sounds from buckles or velcro by repeating the noise at increasing proximity while providing rewards.
• Use positive reinforcement like treats and praise throughout the introduction process to build good associations.
• Start by placing the harness on for short periods, progressively increasing the duration.
• Ensure the harness fits well—not too tight or loose—to avoid discomfort.
• Feed treats through the head opening at early stages without forcing your dog’s head through immediately.
• Monitor for signs of distress and slow down if needed; patience is vital as adjustment times vary.

Remember, UK law requires that your dog wears a collar with an identity tag even when wearing a harness. Regularly inspect harnesses for wear to ensure safety.

Conclusion

These five common dog care challenges can be managed effectively by understanding your dog’s needs and applying a patient, positive approach. From dental care to equipment introduction, promoting comfort and trust enhances your dog’s health and happiness while making these tasks easier for you. For any concerns beyond normal care, consult your vet for personalised advice and support.