Sachita -
I am with you on the healthy food.
I only feed my dog Newman Organics, the regular adult dry formula.
http://www.newmansownorganics.com/pet/home/
I did MEGA research before I settled on this brand. It is on the costly side, but I can afford it because I have one small dog. If I had more than 2, I am sure I could not keep them in this food.
My dog used to scratch a lot (allergies), and his scratching pretty much went away after I started feeding him this brand. Oatmeal baths take care of the rest.
For treats my dog gets veggies, fruits, or natural, non preservative treats. Those baby carrots that come in the bag are great. I really see no need to get all those "chews" with all those preservatives in them.
In terms of bones, the contradictory information out there makes me hesitate to give him anything, so he doesn't get them often. Right now, however, I have been giving him Elk Antlers, as they are not too hard (Linus, my vet said the one thing to never give a dog is soup bones because it can break their teeth).
I haven't purchased from this company, but just wanted to toss up a link so people know what I am talking about
:
http://www.bestbullysticks.com/home/...k_antlers.html
I think I am going to order him some (don't know which site yet...need to research it), as I have been just buying them in the pet store and I see they are much cheaper online.
In terms of chewing bones in order to keep your dog's teeth clean, you always have the option to just brush them.
Good topic, Linus.