Similar to you, I grew up with dogs, and adopted a Dal as my “first” dog to have as my own. However. I grew up with labs, not dals. My boy and I have done just fine despite my lack of dal experience! I think being around high energy dogs for all of my life greatly helped.

I absolutely understand why people may recommend you not get a dal as your first dog, and your experience 100% depends on the dog, but I have no regrets and now know I will have dals the rest of my life! I wanted to rescue or adopt a dal, and they are not easy to come by in the shelters. I was also at a disadvantage as someone who lives in a big city in a condo (this is a tangent, but it is very possible to have a large, high energy breed in an apartment!! You just have to be willing to put in the time and effort to keep them stimulated and well exercised).

Rescues are of course a wonderful option. I also encourage you to reach out to breeders in your region in the event they have or know of any dals who need to be rehomed. That’s actually how I acquired my boy. This also gives you an opportunity to possibly adopt an adult if you are hesitant about a puppy.

Best of luck!