I have used choke collars and they ARE safe and humane, and will not actually choke the dog when used properly. It is used just for a quick snap, and it's very uncomfortable, but just for an instant. It should never be pulled on though, just a quick pop. And hitting DEFINITELY does not work. I have a small dog that likes to get hit and slapped and poked and just generally clobbered, she actually begs for it. If she were large I'm sure getting actually HIT hit would just be a carnival treat for her.