| Yes, it is definately considered hitting and should never be done to correct a dog. The only thing that will accomplish is to convey to the dog that you are unreliable and prone to violence. Josie is at a very bad age for listening now and this is the time you need to build a good strong working relationship with her. Jumping on tables and counters is something she figured out that there may be something good up there for her to have or take. So first of all, try not to leave things within her view or reach to tempt her to continue doing that. Next work on your voice control over her so that when you tell her to get off she will listen. Also don't allow her to treat you like another dog. It's fine to play with her but try to play games that will also teach her something or improve her behavior. Fetching a ball is really good but structure it so that she will wait on command and only go when you release her and then bring the ball back and politely give it to you. That won't happen overnight, you'll need to work at it and develop that in her. And that's not going to happen by rapping her on the nose.  |