mfds, I am not aware of any suggestion that Pups as a type have a history of unusual spin characteristics (although NB each individual airframe can have its quirks). It's the Bulldog that has, very occasionally, misbehaved itself, and despite the similarities to a Pup it is heavier and has a different CofG. It is of course sensible to be reluctant to aerobat an aircraft that you have not spun, but why not have an instructor demonstrate Pup spins and recoveries to you before going aerobatic? As for the Bulldog, I gather that there is a school of thought that you shouldn't spin one without a parachute. All of my pre-ppl spinning was done in a civvie Bulldog without wearing a parachute but now that I have a parachute I would wear it just in case.
If you are near London I can recommend a good aerobatic instructor who is current on Pup and Bulldog.