Sacroiliac Disease in Dogs

Sacroiliac disease refers to discomfort or dysfunction arising from the sacroiliac joints—the paired joints that connect the spine to the pelvis on each side of a dog's hindquarters. These joints allow a small degree of movement and bear considerable load during walking, running, and turning. When they become strained, inflamed, or unstable, the result can be pain that affects how a dog moves and carries weight through the back legs. Owners often notice changes in gait—stiffness when rising, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, a shortened stride, or subtle asymmetry in the hindquarters. Some dogs shift weight away from one side, or show discomfort when the lower back or pelvis is touched. Because the signs can overlap with hip problems, lumbar spine conditions, or generalised muscle soreness, sacroiliac disease is not always the first consideration. This page explores the signals that may point toward sacroiliac involvement, the mechanical and inflammatory processes that can occur at these joints, the ways the condition can be investigated, and the range of approaches—from rest and physiotherapy to targeted treatments—that can be considered depending on the individual dog and the nature of the problem.