Why dogs with STURMFREI® often appear younger – observations from over ten years of experience

Why dogs with STURMFREI® often appear younger – observations from over ten years of experience

When we conceived and launched STURMFREI® over eleven years ago, we really only wanted to solve one thing: the typical problems with leash manners.
The front guidance and optimally adjusted front strap allow the dog's attention to be redirected – many owners report that their dog appears calmer and more balanced as a result.

Over the years, we have received thousands of responses – from dogs that walk past other dogs more calmly, to those that enjoy going for walks again instead of constantly stopping or jumping on the leash.

One observation particularly impressed us: Some STURMFREI® users report that their dogs often appear remarkably "young" in old age.
Of course, this is not a scientific study – but the many similar experiences suggest that the changed posture and movement can have a positive effect on a dog's overall appearance.

Because when there's less tension on the leash, there's less strain. In particular, the repeated daily moments of muscle tension – such as when pulling, resisting, or "lengthening the neck" – are largely eliminated.
This can lead to more even muscle function and a more upright posture. Dogs that can move freely in the neck and shoulder area often breathe more calmly, approach encounters more serenely, and are less likely to get into tense situations on the leash.

When dogs reach the end of the leash on the STURMFREI® leash, they usually stand upright, either looking at their owner or simply calmly ahead. The classic "lying down" behavior is also often avoided with STURMFREI®.

This upright posture and the absence of daily muscle tension to avoid a jerk on the neck or the so-called "hunting posture" (often caused by chest harnesses) results in a relief that can sustainably protect the musculoskeletal system.

Just as with people who adopt a certain posture for years and can hardly change it later, a connection between movement, tension and expression is also evident in dogs.
This creates the impression that the dog is younger than it actually is – it appears more vital, attentive and agile.
This effect results from the way he runs, his posture and his inner tension – all of which change when daily tension decreases.

Conclusion:
Sometimes the difference between a "tense" and a "relaxed" dog is just a small detail – the way it is led on the leash.

Image: Golden Retriever lady April at STURMFREI®.