Dogs may lick themselves occasionally to self-soothe or groom parts of their bodies. However, excessive licking can point to other problems. Stress, anxiety, and boredom may prompt dogs to lick themselves a lot. Allergies and skin infections can trigger a dog to lick affected areas.
Other possible causes of excessive licking include GI disorders, joint pain, dental disease, and neurological conditions. Consult a vet if you notice your dog repetitively licks their lips or body, and report any additional symptoms you observe.