Why does my dog keep licking?

If it continues for more than a couple days and looks to be in the same general location I recommend contacting your local vet.

Compulsive scratching, licking, and chewing behaviors are quite common in dogs and have a variety of causes. They can also be harmful. One of the first signs your dog has a problem might be the development of a “hot spot” -- a red, wet, irritated area that arises from persistent chewing, licking, scratching or rubbing. Although hot spots, or "acute moist dermatitis," can occur anywhere on your dog’s body, they are most often found on the head, chest, or hips. Because dogs often incessantly scratch, lick, or bite at an area once it becomes irritated, hot spots can become large and incredibly sore rather quickly. Please check with your vet

Licking, and it's frequency and intensity, can be breed and personality based. Some dogs, like poodles and poodle mixes, have a tendency to lick absolutely everything (even when they're bored). My dog (mini-golden doodle), will lick you until you move out of reach, and even then she may do something silly like lick your shoe or pant leg just because it's there.

So, yes, depending on the dog, acute licking can lead to irritation and dermatitis, but it has to be consistent attention to the same areas. For the most part, though, you need to keep in mind the breed your working with, and how that particular dog shows affection or anxiety. If anyone wants some further information, here's a link to dog trainer 'Cesar's website, Cesar's Way: https://www.cesarsway.com/dog-behavior/innocuous-behaviors/why-do-dogs-lick ("Dog Licking")