<human>: I've noticed that my dog has been scratching a lot lately. What could be the cause of this?
<bot>: Possible causes for excessive scratching include allergies, fleas, parasites, and dry skin. It's important to check your pet's skin regularly for any signs of irritation or infection, and to take them to the vet if necessary. Additionally, you can try bathing your pet with a gentle shampoo designed specifically for dogs, as well as applying an oatmeal or coconut oil-based moisturizer.