Don't see the problem. I have big dogs. I put the lead on before the dog gets in, open the hatchback slowly and just enough so the dog can't get out. He tries to stick his head into the gap and I grab his collar or the lead. If he doesn't stick his head out (unusual), I have plenty of time to grab him, obstructing the hatch as I do so. Same applies to my small dogs.If they are on the seats ( not practice) I can open the door slightly and grab the dog as before. Experienced dog owners are used to putting their bodies so that the dog doesn't come through any door or aperture until the owner is prepared to let them or decides not to let them out.