Steve

I think that the majority of people do start with pups. 

One advantage in Europe, is that you have a larger amount of quality dogs to choose from in a small area as opposed to the US.  Our states are the size of countries in Europe.  There are more Quality dogs available in Germany than in the US.  Germany is the size of Wisconsin.  Can you imagine if we had that many good breeders in such a small area?  Here in the US it is more difficult to go ride to the breeders and look at both parents.  Many people here are buying blindly and it is more of a risk.   The good breeders are spread out too far to be as effective as a smaller country in Europe.  Thankfully the internet is good for one thing.  It is now easier to send and look at video and footage of dogs and pups, but it is still not as good as in person.  Videos can showcase the highlights and leave out what can be seen in person.

Buying a slightly older dog helps because it is more telling of what the dog will eventually be. 

You also have more clubs in a smaller area.  That makes it easier on the trainers too.  Many people in the US drive hours to get to a decent club.