There’s an old lady with a border collie near here. When she walks, the dog will hold his own leash in his mouth and stay a few steps in front of her. He floats along on his tiptoes and has his head held high, looking at any passing cars. “I’m carrying my own leash!” The woman just smiles and waves.
I had a Golden Retriever who liked to carry her own leash. My next Golden couldn’t be bothered, but he had other great qualities.