What I've been hearing is that pre-patches are worthless...
And at the same time some people say they are wonderful.
I know I really like seeing higher skills (from power scrolls and such) on the current dogs. Way more powerful. Way less vetting. Just can hide, let the dog do all the work.
Currently, I have a SUPER dog in works with power scrolls for everything. If not 120s (most are) to 115s. Will it make a big difference? Have to wait and see.
I'm just not 100% sure in telling you that you may be wasting time on a nightmare that just doesnt have the options to be the best. A friend and I tamed me one just last week. Some are 3 slots from go... some are 2. Clearly, you want the 2.

More room for mods. Not to mention the rare colors... that all may be worthless. hehe.