I posted in the 360 support section but didn't get any responses, so I'll try here. Sorry if wrong section.

So I started a new character a few days ago and now want to download dawngaurd. I'm currently level 9 and haven't fought the 1st dragon yet. Should I download DG and proceed with this character or download and start over? Any pros and cons to either? Or does it not matter? Thanks

i suggest you continue playing then pop in dg unless u want your towns being ransacked by vampires eary in game

Continue playing how long?

I exhausted the quests in Vanilla skyrim before downloading DG. That way, no vital NPC would be whacked by marauding vampire idiots and ruining quests in the vanilla game.

Any other advice please?

If you're wanting to do the main quest first, then do that first. If you want to jump into dawnguard first, then download it. A character is a character. It really doesn't matter to me. It's what you want to do with it that makes these decisions.

All main quest characters are essential (meaning they won't die) and most side quest characters are as well, but not all. I would suggest doing a healthy amount of side quests and side story lines/factions before starting Dawnguard.

does DG add anything to vanilla by way of weapons etc? I picked up a crossbow bolt the first guy fired at a wolf but otherwise - does the new loot make it into the main game?