Let the best dog leap the stile first.

Give the first opportunity to the person best suited to the task, rather than deciding who goes first by an arbitrary order.

The dog crossing a stile provides an image of ability taking precedence: whoever is most capable should be allowed to lead the way.

Use it when several people could take on a task and someone wants the most capable person to go first. It can support a decision about who should lead or make the first attempt.