Even from a training perspective, some dogs will never be able to control that drive to hunt for prey, and god forbid one runs across their path. Even with solid OB, some types of prey for some dogs is just too much. He will have to stay on a leash probably for the rest of his life while out in public.
However, impulse control and teaching to leave something alone is completely doable. We are trying to control his movement after-all right? (You are using a leash!)
Sitting while trying to refocus with a distraction behind him, would be one of the last places of proofing against distraction. Not a good start place, and here's why. Your not only asking for obedience amongst distraction, your asking for focus while his brain is processing the smell of the hunt behind him. So he's processing too much information all at once, and not giving you what you want, forcing you into one of three places, correction, tolerance, or repeated attempts.
Think of it more like a desensitizing routine. Training at distance for focus, and compliance, then gradually getting closer to the problem (dog, people, whatever). Any reaction backs up training and distance increases away from the distraction, then continues. A full blown reaction of aggression towards the problem starts training at the beginning again. During this routine, your not only training focus, your training yourself how to play better and retain focus.
Gradually you get closer to the problem and he will retain focus on you and what your doing. It is a process, but it works, and he will be more likely to give exactly what your asking for through a "want" to comply, instead of stress and the "need" to comply.
Now when he knows what your asking, you know for sure 100% that he knows what your asking, and he is choosing not to comply with your commands. Then it's time for a correction, but only when you know for absolutely sure that he's blowing you off. Depending on how hard or soft he is, is how much of a correction to give.
With my own dogs, I am their dictator. I gave them both my word that I would be fair, consistent, loving, and caring. I will teach the rules, and I expect them to be followed. Failure to do so is met with swift justice. Compliance is rewarded, and encouraged. All I expect in return is loyalty and obedience.
It might sound harsh, but when there's a problem, they come running to get me.
(p.s. Anyone think of why body positions are taught at a young age as basics, and not something else?
Because it asserts your leadership position, and your right as leader to control where and what they do with their body at a young age. It is your right as leader to control the movement of any member of your pack, regardless of their age. Yes, you can tell your spouse I said that.
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