Cleric 1 is the best dip in the game, consider it. You can get pretty much anything with judicious selection of domains. Also, take Beguiler (Shining South) for your race - the little critters get 2 claws, a bite, a prehensile tail and also rend. And they only have 1 HD, which swaps out for a class level. Beguiler Barbarians with Pounce and Whirling Frenzy are awesome to behold.