Crossword Genius

Huge number of dogs slipping lead (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

oodles

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'huge number' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both quantities as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

'dogs slipping lead' is the wordplay.
'dogs' becomes 'poodles' (poodle is a kind of dog).
'slipping lead' means to remove the first letter (I've seen 'slips lead' mean this).
'poodles' with its first letter taken away is 'OODLES'.

'of' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for oodles that I've seen before include "Tons, scads" , "'Loads, lots (6)'" , "A lot" , "Large indefinite number" , "a feast" .)

I've seen this clue in The Independent.
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