Scooting — dragging the bottom along the floor — almost always means something is irritating that area. The usual culprits are full anal glands, worms, or itchy, inflamed skin.
When a dog drags its rear along the ground, it is trying to relieve an itch, irritation or discomfort around the bottom. It is a symptom, not a habit, so the goal is to find the cause. An occasional scoot may be nothing, but repeated scooting deserves a look — and often a vet visit.
Dogs have two small scent glands either side of the anus that normally empty when they poop. Sometimes these glands become full, blocked or infected, causing irritation that makes a dog scoot, lick the area, or seem uncomfortable sitting down. Impacted anal glands are one of the most common reasons for scooting and usually need a vet or groomer to express (empty) them.
Worms (especially tapeworm, whose segments can irritate the bottom), itchy skin from allergies, matted or dirty fur around the rear, a bit of stuck faeces, or general inflammation can all prompt scooting. A recent bout of diarrhoea can leave the skin sore enough to scoot too.
Book a check-up if your dog scoots repeatedly, licks or bites at the area, has a swelling, bad smell or discharge near the bottom, or seems to be in pain when sitting or pooping. Your vet can express the anal glands, check for worms and treat any skin issue. Keeping up with regular worming and keeping the fur around the rear clean and trimmed helps prevent it.
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Most quirks are perfectly normal. If a behaviour changes suddenly or comes with other signs of illness, check with your vet. Full disclaimer.