2 Qwerty
Regarding alternatives, consider dendroids with an upgrade in the Castle or unicorns in the Stronghold. I've noticed from watching replays that players usually build 1-6 units in the Castle on the first turn. But if I have to choose... I'll definitely try this option.
I usually ask myself: "Should I build dragons on the second turn or not?" Just to clarify, I'm playing a random map with 160 points and no computer opponents, specifically on the most popular version on this forum, template 2sm4d3. I'd be interested to hear the arguments for and against.