Expert: Anne Springer, B.S., Dip., CAPCT - 11/3/2009

Question
My 6 month old Aussie seems at times like his eye is in pain and then I notice it looks like it kind of shifts or moves to the side. After he rest for a while he goes back to normal. At first I thought maybe he had hit his eye on something but then this morning the other eye did the same thing. Maybe allergies?

Answer
This doesn't sound like allergies, although I certainly can't rule it out because I'm not a vet and cannot see the dog.  Definitely have your veterinarian check him out, though.  Eye abnormalities are common in Australian Shepherds.  If you got your dog from a reputable breeder, they should have tested his parents for the defects that can be tested for.  (CERF, or Canine Eye Registry Foundation)
Here is an article about the most common eye anomalies:
http://www.ashgi.org/articles/eyes_can_you_see.htm
Another fairly common situation in Aussies is ideopathic epilepsy, and eye movements can accompany seizure activity.
If it turns out that your dog has an eye disorder, don't despair.  Limited vision dogs can be trained and live a long happy life.