raise them or buy them

I think to have a successful pack you need both. The older more seasoned dogs will help the young dogs learn there place in the pack. Just an example, I got two BMC pups right around 6 months, and they had never seen a hog. Put them with a seasoned strike dog and on hogs, and they started to turn out at a little over a year. Sold one to a guy in OK, and he says he's had 3 offers for him for a $1000. So I guess, IMO, you need some good dogs already to make some really good dogs, but the dog has to have drive to do so or your waisting your time. Culling is something that I am having a hard time coming to grips with... I love my dogs, but to have a sucessfull yard, culling is a must. Good luck to ya!