Reply by Rick Dennington

Greetings Jonathan,

Just use Titebond II, or III… You could do it the other way you said, but really no need…
If you’re in doubt, just countersink the holes a little deeper so you’ll get more dowel in the hole…
But it should work either way…. just remember.. the deeper the hole, the more dowel, and more glue….
No need for epoxy or wood filler…... I’d go the dowel and glue route…......I have before, and it works…..

-- " Don't ever wrestle a pig in a mudhole....he'll be having more fun than you..!!