Wants a maltipoo but scared of other dogs

Hi everyone, I’m looking for some advice from other dog owners.

My partner and I have been planning to get a Maltipoo for a while now. We’re pretty familiar with the day-to-day routine and costs etc since we previously lived with a family member who had one. Overall, we feel ready, except for one thing.

I’ve been afraid of larger dogs my entire life, and that fear is what’s holding me back from getting our puppy right away. I worry about situations like encounters with bigger dogs on walks, at parks, or in public, and whether I’d be able to handle those situations calmly and responsibly. I know this might sound like a silly concern, but it feels very real to me. Has anyone else dealt with this? Is this a valid concern, and if so, how did you work through it?

Any insight or shared experiences would really help. Thanks!