My puppy is a poodle mix (probably cocker spaniel, dont know she was a stray). She is just over 5 months old.
Generally we are doing great. We have a bit of a problem as she chases cats with a passion. We live in Cyprus, it is full of strays. I only let her off lead in safe areas e.g. fields which are usually free of cats. When we are waking (on lead) and she sees a cat, not only will she try to chase it but then she becomes obsessed asnd does not want to come, but rather sniff out where the cat has gone and try to find it.

Is there anything I should be doing to try and improve this behaviour?

I have 2 ex racers (greyhounds) and have the same sort of problem (Already been to the vets ones because of cats), i have been teaching them "leave it", and it works 8-10 times that they will not attempt to chase but just look. When you take her out on walks, bring some really smelly treats or favorite toys, when she gets worked up), distract her and get her attention. In time this should come natural.

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Thank you very much. I will try that

A chase recall.
The basic idea behind is getting them really focused on a toy so that they choose to chase the toy rather than the previous chase target. So that all you'd need to say is "ball" and the dog spins round wanting to play with you rather than chase the cat.
How Do I Stop My Dog Chasing? | Behaviour & Training

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