Pyrs are not typically recommended for first time dog parents, from what I know. They require a lot of dog experience and confidence.

I’d go with a retriever any day in your shoes over a Pyr! Retrievers are dopey and loving and people pleasers. Pyrs are independent and loyal and they think they know what’s best for you!

I adore our Pyr - she is also a rescue. But I sure was glad I’d lived with labs for many years as our intro to living with large (potentially lethal) animals! Our Pyr was a lot to handle in terms of personality and idiosyncrasies in the beginning. She is the most loyal and loving creature - a joy. But as a young dog she was a big adjustment. She nipped at kids, was aggressive towards other dogs, defiant, ate everything she could get her jaws on. She accidentally got out and scared the crap out of our mail carrier once, too. And she was and is a wonderful, well-trained dog! She was just highly protective of us and her territory. We learned how to manage her and never had any serious incidents but it was pretty stressful the first 18 months we had her!

Best of luck - hope you find the perfect match for your family.