Asleep, Awoke, Attacked?

[CassandGunnar]

Seizures in dogs are more common than people think. It's not always epilipsy, as such. A variety of things can cause seizures in dogs. It can be epilipsy but it can also be environment or due to another underlying illness. Some breeds are more prone to seizures. There is a lot of information out there about canine seizures or you can talk to your regular vet.
Good luck, if you can confirm actual seizures, they can be controlled or even eliminated in some cases.

[AgileGSD]

Originally Posted by KMSlemons

Now about the seizures... Are you all saying it's possible he has epilepsy? To be really honest, I have never heard of a dog having seizures. I'm sure it happens, but I haven't even ever thought about it. I don't even know what to look for! Do you have any recommended sites I should read? I could go Google it, and I will, but if you have a site that you prefer, I would love to read it too!

Thank you for all your advice. I'm not taking this lightly... I'm quite worried.

There are different kinds of seizures, not all are grand mals. Epilepsy is the term used for seizures for no known reason (ie: no underlying disease) and is generally something a dog is predisposed to in that, some dogs genetically have a lower seizure threshold than normal. Seizures can be caused by other things too, such as chemicals, injury and certain diseases.

I would suggest a good place to start is a full thyroid panel. Hypothyroidism can affect brain function and in some cases, has caused uncharacteristic aggression.

It's very unlikely this was due to your dog smelling your neighbor's dog on your daughter.

[RubyTuesday]

It does sound like it could be a seizure disorder. Given how large & powerful he is it's imperative that you have him fully checked out by a vet well versed in seizure disorders. They're not at all uncommon.

IF there's a vet school within driving distance you might want to take him there. They're generally top notch with the less than straight forward stuff.

IF it's a seizure disorder they're usually manageable. Years ago my old Sibe had a seizure when he was ~9 yrs old which was assumed to be induced by an excessively toxic flea remedy. My vet's advice was to ignore it as it was the only seizure he'd had in almost 9yrs. Advice might vary with the presentation. Cochise appeared terrified, which was totally out of character, but he never aggressed. With an aggressive presentation they might have advised differently. They can also advise you as to the best way to act towards Mgelika if it does happen again.

Wishing the best for all of you!