have (one) on a short leash

have (one) on a short leash

To maintain strict or tight control over one; to not allow one very much independence or autonomy. Poor George seems like doesn't get out too much these days. I think his husband has him on a short leash. The boss has had her assistant on a short leash ever since she hired her.
See also: have, leash, on, short
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • give (one) (one's) head
  • give head
  • give somebody their head
  • give someone their head
  • drive (one) out of office
  • force (one) out of office
  • force out of office
  • cooking for one
  • 1FTR
  • as one door closes, another (one) opens