Why does my dog scratch at the ground, like a bull preparing to charge?

It's a territorial thing. My border collie/lab mix Gracie scratches up the ground when she barks at other dogs in the neighborhood. It's a way for dogs to mark their territory besides peeing, as some male dogs do.

Dog Scratching Ground

Dogs have scent glands on the pads of their paws. This little "scratch dance" is one form of "marking" their territory. My dogs mainly do it after pottying, but at other times as well. If the potty mark is the "I've been here" then the "scratch dance" is the exclamation point.

A lot of dogs do this before going to bed or after pooping outside.

If it happens before going to bed, its part of the circle and dig Instinct they have for making a bed outside.

They still do it indoors with beds and floors too, it seems a very strong Instinct in my dogs.

If its more random than that, it could be something to do with scent, they have scent glands in paws, but they do this more often after pooping outside.

Cant be sure, but its likely to be one of those 2 reasons

I have no idea. I have an American Pit Bull Terrier and I have never seen this type of behavior.

I could make some guesses, but I honestly do not know.

You dog is spreading her scent to mark her territory. Many dogs do this but it is not to be tolerated as dogs should not dominate, you should dominate. A simple no and gentle leash jerk will stop this bad behaviorl