It's safe to check around with a dog (6)

I believe the answer is:

secure

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'it's safe' is the definition.
(similar in meaning)

'check around with a dog' is the wordplay.
'check around' becomes 'see' (synonyms. I am not sure about the 'around' bit.).
'with' indicates putting letters inside.
'a dog' becomes 'cur' (both can mean a despicable person).
'see' going around 'cur' is 'SECURE'.

'to' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for secure that I've seen before include "Safe and well-protected" , "Peg" , "Reliable; firmly fixed" , "lock" , "Rescue (anag) - make safe" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.

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