Nose licking

Question
We have an 8 year old male miniature pinscher.  For the most part he is a very happy, active well adjusted dog.  The issue is nose licking.  He will sit in his bed and lick his own nose forever if we let him.  We'll let him go for about 5 or 10 minutes before we tell him to stop.  What could be causing this behavior?

Thanks

Answer
"Nose licking" (swiping upper lip with tongue) is a stress reduction signal intended for communication between a higher ranking individual and the "licker".  I can't see what's going on from here.  It's quite possible your dog is suffering a physical problem and is attempting to alleviate it by this behavior.  I suggest you take this dog to a veterinary neurologist (or a high end veterinarian capable of diagnosis, not all vets are "good" vets).  He may need a CT scan of his nasal cavity as it may involve a growth or other abnormality.  If he has been fully evaluated (including any tests) and everything is normal, then this may be a behavior you have inadvertently captured (by giving it attention) and he is now offering for attention.