Dogleg
Course Areas
Explained Simply
A hole that bends left or right between the tee and the green, shaped like a dog's hind leg. A 'dogleg right' bends to the right; a 'dogleg left' bends to the left.
Example
“On a dogleg right par-4, you aim your tee shot at the corner of the fairway, then have a clear approach to the green after the bend.”
Why it matters
Doglegs reward smart aiming over distance. Cutting the corner can shorten the hole but brings trees or hazards into play.
Common beginner mistake
Trying to cut the corner with driver every time. Most beginners score better by playing to the elbow of the dogleg with a club they can control.
Related
beginner
Course Areas
Related
- FairwayThe short-mowed strip of grass between the tee box and the green. This is where you want your ball to land.
- Tee BoxThe designated starting area for each hole where you place your tee and hit your first shot.
- Lay UpIntentionally hitting a shorter shot to land in a safe, favorable position rather than going for the green or carrying a hazard you might not clear.