After a lot of research and soul-searching, John and I decided that the best kibble for our dogs was not a kibble at all, but a truly natural raw food diet. This diet is often referred to as a BARF diet which can stand for 'Bones And Raw Foods' or 'Biologically Appropriate Raw Foods.' The bulk of the diet consist of - hold on to your seat - raw chicken backs, necks, and wings. I'm not surprised if you're shocked - I was when I first heard about it. However, the more I read about this diet, the more convinced I was that this was what my animals were designed to eat. I do have to admit that the first time I fed my dogs bones, I was pretty paranoid. Every time a heard a crunch I shuddered. But not anymore. Now, every crunch of a bone that I hear brings a smile to my face as I think of all the benefits to my dogs of this diet.

SOME OF THE ADVANTAGES:

• Clean teeth and fresh breath without brushing or trips to the vet
• Compact stools that are easy to clean up
• Luxurious coats even on the older dogs
• No more finicky eaters

BOOKS TO READ:

• Natural Nutrition for Dogs and Cats; The Ultimate Diet -- by Kymythy Schultze

• Give Your Dog A Bone -- by Dr. Ian Billinghurst

• Grow Your Pups With Bones -- by Dr. Ian Billinghurst

• Dr. Pitcairn's Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats

• Reigning Cats & Dogs -- by Pat McKay

• The Holistic Guide for a Healthy Dog -- by Wendy Volhard & Kerry L. Brown

• The Complete Herbal Handbook for the Dog and Cat -- by Juliette De Bairacli Levy

• The Encyclopedia of Natural Pet Care -- by CJ Puotinen

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CLICK ON:

• BARF FAQ
• A Place for Paws
• Raw Pets