The 10 best vacuums for pet hair — tried and tested by our team

These are the best vacuums for pets that will thoroughly clean up cat and dog hair

A dog on a gray couch next to a vacuum
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Whether you have one pet or four, owning one of the best vacuums for pet hair is a total game-changer. Take it from us, a team of pet owners. Not everyone actually knows that not all vacuum cleaners are created to deal with the consequences of shedding and the suction of pet hair — lots of them will get blocked as soon as you attempt to clean your pet's bed. Not ideal. 

If you are in the market for a new vacuum, whether a cordless vacuum or a bagged model, then you've come to the right place. From Sharks to Dysons, we've tested out seven of the best models that are on the market. All of these have been tested in homes with pets, by our panel of expert reviewers.

As well as having in-depth product specs and descriptions, we've also linked these best vacuums to our reviews, for more detail on performance that'll help you choose which is the most suitable vacuum cleaner for your home.

Best Vacuums for Pet Hair: Quick Menu

1. The list in brief ↴
2. Best overall: Shark Stratos IZ862H
3. Best affordable vacuum: Bissell IconPet
4. Best high-end vacuum: Dyson Outsize
5. Best for allergies: Miele Complete C3
6. Best robot vacuum: iRobot Roomba S9+
7. Best for larger homes: Dyson Ball Animal 2
8. Best upright vacuum: Shark Vertex AZ2002
9. Best deep cleaning vacuum: Shark Cylinder CZ2001
10. Best handheld vacuum: Shark Wandvac Powerpet
11. Best on stains: Shark StainStriker PX201
12. What to consider
13. How we test
14. FAQs

The quick list

If you want to know which vacuum is the best for pet owners fast, then here's a quick glance at our favorite models. You can jump down to read full descriptions and for more info on features and specs.

The 9 best vacuums for pet hair — tried and tested

Why you can trust Real Homes Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

The best vacuum for pet hair

Shark Stratos Anti Hair Wrap Plus Pet Pro Cordless Vacuum [2 Battery] IZ420UKTReal Homes Rated Gold badge

(Image credit: Amazon)
It folds to store, bends under furniture and it's super easy to use

Specifications

Type: Stick
Bagless?: Yes
Cordless?: Yes
Charge time: 4 hrs
Battery life: 1 hr/battery
Capacity: 0.9 L
Noise: 80 dB
Weight: 8.9 lbs
Price: $449.99

Reasons to buy

+
Great on pet hair
+
Super easy to use
+
Emits a nice scent as you clean
+
Folds to store

Reasons to avoid

-
Long charge time
Buy it if

💕 You want a Shark vacuum: Shark vacuums are the most sought-after on the market for a reason, and this one has plenty of the brand’s signature features.
💕 You want a vacuum that’s easy to control: This vacuum auto-adjusts depending on what surface you’re cleaning.
💕 You want a fresh-smelling home: It comes with recyclable fragrance pods that emit a lovely smell, which is perfect for removing pet odors.

Don't buy it if

❌ You need to vacuum several times a day: It does take four hours to charge.
❌ Your home is large: It has a battery life of just one hour.
❌ You want a very lightweight vacuum: It is around nine pounds, so if you have lots of stairs to carry it up, you might want something lighter.

The bottom line

✨ Shark Stratos IZ862H Out of all the vacuum cleaners that we’ve tested at Real Homes, this is our favorite overall. Its powerful suction, scent pods, and ant-hair-wrap technology make it our number-one pet vacuum. 

The Shark Stratos Cordless with Clean Sense IQ IZ862H is part of the brand's latest line of vacuum cleaners, and it's packed with all the features we love. Our head ecommerce editor Annie reviewed this Shark Stratos vacuum in the UK (where it's the IZ420UKT model) and she felt that it is really easy to use thanks to Clean Sense IQ technology. 

This fab tech automatically controls the power or suction depending on what you're cleaning. She finds it more than capable of cleaning her spacious two-bedroom apartment, and it picks up the hair her pug leaves behind with total ease. Its battery life is also very impressive considering its suction power, and its LED lights make it easy to see what you haven't cleaned yet. 

Another feature we love is that it works with recyclable pods to emit a nice smell as you clean (great for busting pet odors). It comes equipped with Flexology tech, so the vac can bend instead of you, and a DuoClean Floorhead with Anti-Hair-Wrap, making it ideal for transitioning across all floor types. Also, this particular model comes with a pet hair removal tool, a bag for keeping all the tools together, and twin batteries.

Read our full Shark Stratos IZ420UKT review.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignSimple to use, easy to store.★★★★★
PriceA little pricey, but has plenty of features.★★★★★
SuctionGreat on all floor types.★★★★★
FeaturesLots of Shark signature features, plus a bendable stick.★★★★★

The best affordable vacuum for pet hair

bissell iconpetReal Homes Rated Silver Badge

(Image credit: Bissell)

2. Bissell IconPet Cordless Stick Vacuum

Coming in at $100 cheaper than the Shark, this Bissell buy is great

Specifications

Type: Stick
Bagless?: Yes
Cordless?: Yes
Battery life: 50 mins
Charging time: 4 hrs
Capacity: 0.4 L
Noise: 81 dB
Weight: 7 lbs
Price: $355.99

Reasons to buy

+
Tangle-free brushes
+
Easy reach under furniture
+
Impressive job picking up pet hair and dust
+
LED lights 
+
Practical attachments

Reasons to avoid

-
Top-heavy design becomes uncomfortable
-
Doesn’t reach tight corners
Buy it if

💕 You’re on a budget: This is the least expensive on the list.
💕 You want a two-in-one: You can use this both as a cordless vacuum and as a handheld vacuum.
💕 You have stairs: We found that it was great at tackling bedded-in pet hair.

Don't buy it if

❌ You want a light model: This vacuum is top-heavy.
❌ Your home has lots of corners: It struggles with these.
❌ You want a long-life battery: It only has 50 minutes of running time.

The bottom line

✨ Bissell IconPet If you want a budget-friendly vacuum that specializes in pet hair, this is the best choice. It’s a great price, works as a cordless and handheld, and has LED lights and a tangle-free roll.

If you have your heart set on an affordable cordless vacuum that can also conquer pet hair, the Bissell IconPet is for you. It promises up to 50 minutes of fade-free cleaning, and it proved to be a hard worker on all floor types and other above-floor surfaces. We rated it 4.5 stars out of five, but the reason it's rated number two is because of how budget-friendly it is. 

This vacuum cleaner was tested by one of our sister brands, and our reviewer loved it. She found the operation of this cordless vacuum to be pretty seamless; it was intuitive to handle, the dust container easy to empty, and its LED headlights worked well in both modes (handheld and full-body vacuum), showing no mercy to hidden pet hair. 

The IconPet also has some pretty powerful features, like a high-performance digital motor that spins at up to 420 miles per hour and a powerful 22-volt lithium-ion battery for cordless convenience, with three cleaning modes that last up to 50 minutes. 

This vacuum has been tested on one of our sister brands.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignEasy maneuver, but becomes heavy to hold.★★★★
PriceCheaper than a Shark.★★★★★
SuctionPowerful digital motor that easily grabs pet hair and dust.★★★★★
FeaturesLED lights and tangle-free for quick and easy hair pick-up.★★★★★

The best high end pet vacuum

Image of one of the best vacuums for pet hair, the Dyson outsizeReal Homes Rated Gold badge

(Image credit: Dyson)

3. Dyson Outsize

At almost $900, it's an investment that's definitely worth it (but only if you'll actually use it!)

Specifications

Type: Cordless
Bagless?: Yes
Cordless?: Yes
Charge time: 4.5 hrs
Battery life: 120 min
Capacity : 1.89 L
Noise : 82 dB
Weight : 7.9 lb
Price: $899.99

Reasons to buy

+
Incredible power
+
Long-running time
+
Easy to maneuver
+
Notifies you when it needs to be emptied
+
Largest dust bin on a cordless model

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive
-
Charging takes a long time
Buy it if

💕 You want the best cordless vacuum: Our reviewer Jen made this her full-time vacuum because of how powerful it is.
💕 You want a vacuum made specifically for pet cleaning: This is engineered for pet hair, and has tools that will clean upholstery and pet beds.
💕 You need a long-life vacuum: The battery lasts 120 minutes.

Don't buy it if

You’re on a budget: Coming in at just under $900, it is quite expensive.
You’ll need to use it a lot: It has a charging time of 4.5 hours.
You want a lightweight model: The top is a little heavy.

The bottom line

Dyson Outsize It is superb value for money, with it being built with pet-cleaning in mind, as well as coming with three different tool attachments. While it is a little bit of a splurge, it isn’t the most expensive on our list.

If you're after a cordless vacuum cleaner that's engineered for pet hair and you're prepared to spend (a lot) more than you would on a standard upright or stick, then we promise the Dyson Outsize is 100% worth it. With a running time of up to two hours spread across two batteries, an oversized half-gallon dust bin, and an extremely powerful design, it will get you through all your cleaning tasks for a fur-free home. 

Our reviewer Jen switched to using this vacuum as her main unit to clean her three-bedroom house, with the bin size and suction power being good enough to replace her corded canister model. Even after a full year of testing, Jen found that the battery life and the floor head of this vacuum, was second to none. 

The additional attachment options include a combination tool, crevice tool, and stubborn dirt brush, which make cleaning up pet hair from upholstery and dog beds a simple task. It also easily and quickly converts to a handheld for above-floor cleaning or getting up close and personal with pet beds. 

This vacuum cleaner was reviewed by one of our editors.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignSlightly top heavy, but overall easy to use.★★★★★
PriceAn investment, but it will last a long time.★★★★
SuctionAmazing suction, especially considering its slimline design.★★★★★
FeaturesLarge dust bin and lets you know when it's full.★★★★★

The best vacuum for pet owners with allergies

MIELE COMPLETE C3 CAT & dogReal Homes Rated Gold badge

(Image credit: Miele)
This cylinder vacuum specializes in trapping allergens

Specifications

Type: Cylinder
Bagless?: No
Cordless?: No
Capacity: 4.5 L
Noise : 62 dB
Weight: 23 lbs
Price: $1,259

Reasons to buy

+
Powerful convenience
+
Great on pet hair
+
Handles all surfaces like a pro 

Reasons to avoid

-
Very expensive
-
Need to remember to keep bags on hand
-
Corded
Buy it if

💕 You have allergies: If you’re allergic to your pet, this is an ideal choice.
💕 You want lots of tools: It has an upholstery tool, crevice nozzle, and dusting brush.
💕 You want a vacuum that’s easy to carry: With a built-in handle, you can carry it around your home efficiently. 

Don't buy it if

❌ You don’t want to splurge: This is the most expensive vacuum on our list.
❌ You want a lighter model: It is quite heavy.
❌ You live in a small space: You might struggle to fit this model in a storage.

The bottom line

✨ Miele Complete C3 Cat and Dog If you or your family members suffer from allergies but dearly love your pet, this vacuum will stop you from sneezing. It will also help you clean efficiently and is easy to move around.

Sensitive to every loose strand of hair, particle of dust, or hint of dirt? Well, the top-rated Cat and Dog vac from Miele utilizes a sealed bag dust bin system that is made for allergy sufferers.

Dried mud on tiles and pet hair on sofas were easily thwarted by this model during testing, according to our reviewer Sarah, who tried it at home for several weeks. She found the floor head and foot controls to change suction on this machine made day-to-day use very simple and stress-free. Removing the dustbag and replacing it with a new one was a seamless operation, too. 

The suction on this model is great and it has a good range of tools, all handily stowed in the body of the vacuum cleaner. While it isn't the smallest, it is a neat design that is easy to transport and store. However, it is on the weighty side, so if you have lots of stairs, you might prefer a lighter model. We did rate it five stars, but it does (understandably) come at a higher price, which is why it's fourth on our list.

Read our Miele Complete C3 Total Solution PowerLine review.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignIt is a little big, but it does have useful controls that make that manageable.★★★★★
PriceThe most pricey model on this list.★★★★
SuctionPowerfully cleans hard and soft dirt and stains.★★★★★
FeaturesIt has a crevice tool, dusting brush, and upholstery nozzle.★★★★★

The best robot vacuum for pets

Image of iRobot Roomba s9+ vacuumReal Homes Rated Gold badge

(Image credit: iRobot)
With the touch of a button, this can rid your home of pet hair

Specifications

Type: Robot
Bagless?: Yes
Cordless?: Yes
Charge time: 2 hrs
Battery life: 2 hrs
Weight: 8.1 lbs
Capacity: 0.4 L
Noise: 66–75 dB
Price: $999

Reasons to buy

+
Advanced obstacle recognition and avoidance
+
High-efficiency filter 
+
Smart compatible (Alexa and Google)
+
Great with corners 
+
Powerful with excellent suction

Reasons to avoid

-
Pricey, a serious investment 
Buy it if

💕 You have a lot of pet hair: If your pets shed more hair than you can deal with, this robot vacuum will get rid of the bulk of it by itself.
💕 You don’t have time to clean daily: Simply set it on a daily schedule, and it will automatically map out and go on a route.
💕 You love smart connectivity: You can connect this to your smart speakers and even use voice control to give it instructions.

Don't buy it if

❌ You don’t want to buy another vacuum: While it is convenient, it won’t replace a full vacuum, as you’ll need this for deeper cleans and to get in smaller gaps.
❌ You struggle with technology: To get the full benefit of it you’ll need to be able to learn its technological features, which might be a struggle for those who aren’t tech-savvy.
❌ You’re on a budget: Its RRP is just under $1k.

The bottom line

✨ iRobot Roomba S9+ This robot vacuum cleaner is a smart choice for those who don’t want to vacuum daily, and have lots of pet hair that regularly needs picking up. Its technology and capabilities are the reason for the high price.

If the amount of hair has seemingly become too much to handle for daily upkeep, then investing in a robot vacuum cleaner might just change the game for you. The iRobot Roomba S9+ is not only a winner at picking up pet hair (even strands embedded deep in the carpet), its obstacle detection laid out in the mapping mode avoids small objects and can even recognize and avoid any pet accidents.

Our reviewer Linda marveled at how this robot could power up or down depending on the floor type it was tackling and enjoyed the iRobot Clean Base, which this bot self-empties into. Linda found that the Clean Base system could hold up to 30 loads of dust and hair before needing to be emptied, cutting down massively on the pet-related cleaning she needed to do. She also loved being able to create keep out zones, such as around her dog's water bowl. 

The S9+ can be controlled at the push of a button, from your smartphone or by Alexa or Google Home Assistant via a smart speaker. In terms of battery life, a single charge lasts up to 120 minutes, which Linda had no complaints about. Although it's rated five stars, it sits at number six because it can't be used as a sole vacuum cleaner; you'll need an upright or stick model to accompany it.

Read our iRobot Roomba S9+ review.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignWorks well as a robot vacuum, but doesn't come with any adaptations.★★★★
PriceExpensive, but it is reasonably priced for a robot vacuum.★★★★
SuctionDespite its small size, it's very powerful.★★★★★
FeaturesObstacle detection and keep out zone creation make it low-effort to use.★★★★★

The best vacuum for large homes

Dyson Ball Animal 2Real Homes Rated Gold badge

(Image credit: Dyson)
This upright model is large but it's worth it if your home is big (and busy)

Specifications

Type: Upright
Bagless?: Yes
Cordless?: No
Capacity: 2.08 L
Noise: 80 dB
Weight: 17.35 lb
Price: $499.99

Reasons to buy

+
Powerful suction so great on carpet and hard flooring
+
The ball makes it easy to move
+
Great for larger homes
+
Long cord

Reasons to avoid

-
Can be noisy
-
On the heavier side
-
Corded
Buy it if

💕 You need to have regular deep cleans: It has super powerful suction, which our tester Sarah found worked brilliantly on everything.
💕 You have lots of floor surface types: We found that this provided excellent results on tiles, parquet, stairs, and carpet.
💕 You have a large home: The cord is plenty long enough.

Don't buy it if

You’re on a budget: It comes in at just under $500.
You want a cordless vacuum: This vacuum is corded.
You don’t want to scare your pets: This vacuum is very noisy.

The bottom line

Dyson Ball Animal 2 For those looking for a vacuum that will deep clean every surface, look no further than this Dyson. It is on the heavier side and the higher end of the price spectrum, but it is very powerful. 

If you have pets, you'll never want to be without the Dyson Ball Animal 2. Its clever brush heads pick up all the hair our furry friends leave behind without getting tangled up. The motorized brush bar also works to remove stubborn dirt leftover from muddy paws. Why isn't it higher on our list? It's almost $500, which is more than most people want to spend on a vacuum cleaner.

The Dyson Ball Animal 2 was the standout vacuum that allowed our tester Sarah to really feel as if she was keeping up with the onslaught of dirt and fur in her home. The suction was impressively powerful and got the job done quickly, though Sarah found herself turning down the power when using it on carpet, as it can be difficult to push on the highest setting.

The low-profile head and tell-tale ball made swishing this vac around at home almost enjoyable. The long cord means Sarah wasn't slowed by having to change outlets and the handle gave her plenty of opportunities to reach where needed when cleaning stairs and upper corners.

Read our Dyson Ball Animal 2 review.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignHeavy to carry, but the ball makes it easy to use.★★★★
PriceIt is one of the more expensive models on this list.★★★★
SuctionThe powerful suction cleans hardwood and carpets thoroughly.★★★★★
FeaturesIt is bagless, making it simple to remove debris.★★★★

The best upright vacuum for pets

The Shark Vertex Upright Vacuum with Powered Lift-awayReal Homes Rated Silver Badge

(Image credit: Shark)
Best for houses with pets with long hair, this vacuum is nice and affordable

Specifications

Type: Upright
Bagless?: Yes
Cordless?: No
Capacity : 0.9 L
Weight: 16 lbs
Noise: 80 dB
Price: $429

Reasons to buy

+
Hair doesn't get stuck in the brush roll
+
Powerful suction
+
Powered Lift-away feature for hard-to-reach spots
+
DuoClean PowerFins maximize contact with floors

Reasons to avoid

-
On the heavy side
-
Not the largest dust cup
Buy it if

💕 You want a budget Shark vac: This is a reasonably-priced Shark, and it comes with DuoClean Powerfins and the self-cleaning brush roll that the brand is known for.
💕 You have long-haired pets: The brush roll keeps it free of hair, so you won’t have to keep untangling it when you clean.
💕 You have hard-to-reach spots: The Powered Lift-Away mode makes it easy to get under furniture and into narrow gaps.

Don't buy it if

❌ You want a light vacuum: It is cumbersome to use, which might not make it suitable for those living in larger spaces with stairs.
❌ You have lots of rooms to clean: The dust cup isn’t the largest, so you may find yourself regularly having to empty it.
❌ You want multiple tools: It doesn’t come with any additional tools, which means you won’t be able to use it in smaller gaps or on upholstery.

The bottom line

✨ Shark Vertex AZ2002 This is a brilliant upright Shark, and comes with all the technologies that make Shark vacuums so sought after. It isn’t the lightest model on this list, but if you just want a vacuum cleaner that is powerful enough to clean up after your pets, this will do all of that and more. 

If you have a long-haired dog or cat, you'll love the Shark Vertex Upright Vacuum with Powered Lift-Away. In fact, it's one of the best Shark vacuums you can buy. Built with hypervelocity suction, it's powerful enough to suck up everything in its path, and it's built with the latest DuoClean Powerfins features with a self-cleaning brush roll that automatically keeps it free of hair, so you won't have to spend time removing fur that's tangled around the brush roll when you're done vacuuming. 

Our reviewer Jaclyn found he found that the anti-hair wrap feature lived up to its name, with strands never wrapping around the self-cleaning brush roll or clogging the vacuum shaft. She can also advocate for using the self-cleaning power brush combined with the crevice tool for banishing pet hair.

Besides the fact that it sucks up hair, this vacuum is packed with other handy features, including LED headlights for seeing under the furniture, tools for cleaning dog hair off the sofa and in crevices, and on-board tool storage (though it annoyingly doesn't have space for all three attachments). It also has a built-in HEPA filter to remove allergens and pet dander while it cleans. 

Read our Shark Vertex Upright Vacuum with Powered Lift-Away review.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignHeavier to use, and doesn't have a huge dust cup.★★★★
PriceA reasonable price for a Shark.★★★★
SuctionOne of the best Sharks for suction.★★★★★
FeaturesComes with Shark's Powerfins and a self-cleaning brush roll.★★★★

The best deep cleaning pet vacuum

Image of Shark Bagless Cylinder Pet Vacuum CZ2001Real Homes Rated Silver Badge

(Image credit: Shark)
This is a brilliant choice if you live in a large space and will need to clean regularly

Specifications

Type: Corded
Bagless?: Yes
Cordless?: No
Capacity: 1.6L
Weight: 18 lbs
Noise: 78dB
Price: $479.99

Reasons to buy

+
3 power settings
+
Great at picking up long hair
+
Large capacity
+
Flexible wand

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the best at cleaning edges
-
Doesn't stand upright
Buy it if

💕 You want to deep clean your home: This model specializes
💕 You like having lots of features: It has a range of Shark’s signature technologies.
💕 You have lots of lifted furniture: The flexology makes it easy to get under furniture gaps. 

Don't buy it if

❌ You live in a small home: The bulky size will make it difficult to store.
❌ You want a cordless vacuum: This large, corded model is very much the opposite.
❌ You want an upright vacuum: This won’t stand up by itself.

The bottom line

✨ Shark Cylinder Pet Vacuum CZ2001 With its large range of tools, long cord, and different power settings, this is a great option for those who have lots of pets and will regularly need to deep clean. 

Looking for a vacuum with a large capacity, can cope with different flooring types and that will provide a deeper clean? This Shark is the model for you. There are different modes for floor types, as well as three power speeds. It's great for those who don't want to contort themselves just to get their cleaning done, with the brand’s signature Flexology design as part of the extended wand that lets you get under sofas and furniture with little effort. 

It has nine meters of cord to work with, so you can stretch it around the house even if you don’t have a lot of plug sockets. Our reviewer Molly also found it unbelievably easy to fetch the cord back in with the button on the main body of the vacuum. If you have a larger home that you’re cleaning, this will come in useful. The 360 wheels also make moving it very easy.

It doesn’t stand upright on its own and will require a lot of space to store it, but if you want something to lift historic dirt from your carpets and ensure a deep clean, then this is a smart choice. Our reviewer tested the UK model, which comes with one less attachment in the US. The body style, Duo Clean Powerfins, and Self-Cleaning brush roll features within these two vacuums are the same, though.

Read our Shark Cylinder Pet Vacuum CZ2001 review.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignBulky, but easy to maneuver around. ★★★★
PriceA little pricey for a vacuum that specializes in deep cleaning.★★★★
SuctionPowerful suction on all floor types.★★★★★
FeaturesComes with duo clean Powerfins and self-cleaning brush roll★★★★

The best handheld pet vacuum

Shark Wandvac Pet ProReal Homes Rated Gold badge

(Image credit: Amazon)
With lots of tools included, this is a top pick for upholstery and car cleaning

Specifications

Cordless?: Yes
Weight: 1.48 lbs
Battery life: 8–35 minutes
Charge time: 3.5 hrs
Capacity: 0.1 L
Price: $149.99

Reasons to buy

+
Great design and charging dock
+
Lightweight
+
Pet and crevice tools
+
Compact
+
No plastic packaging

Reasons to avoid

-
Higher price point
-
Very small bin
Buy it if

💕 You regularly need to clean upholstery: If your pet regularly chills on the couch or travels in your car, this will be useful.
💕 You want a lightweight model: This is just 1.5lbs.
💕 You want a vacuum for your car: The smaller size is ideal for getting in all the corners of your space. 

Don't buy it if

❌ You’re on a budget: It is the same price as some upright vacuums.
❌ You have a large home: The battery life isn’t very long.
You have a lot of dirt to clean: The dust cup isn’t big. 

The bottom line

Shark Wandvac Powerpet For those who need to regularly need to quick pet hairs and dirt, this handheld Shark is perfect for cleaning upholstery. It is pricey, a smaller size and doesn’t have long battery life, so if you are looking to spend on just one all-rounder vacuum, this might not be the best choice. 

Have a pet that’s constantly leaving hairs on your couch or that you travel with often? The Shark Wandvac could be the best option for you. Our reviewer Christina was pleasantly surprised with how lightweight it is, which made it easy for her to go around her apartment. The stylish and ergonomic design made it a winner for her even before she started to use it.

She found it the most useful on cleaning pet beds, behind the couch, and in between radiators — places where pet hair and dirt can get trapped. The duster crevice tool was especially useful for these smaller areas. Switching between this and the pet tool took just a matter of seconds. It also displays battery time while in use, so you can keep an eye on it as you carry on cleaning. 

The only major downside that she found was that it takes 3.5 hours to recharge, which is a long time. She recommends making sure it’s docked once you’ve finished with it, to avoid being caught out. Saying that the chic navy design looks quite smart on display. As well as this, Christina also found the dust cup to be quite small — which is fine for quick cleaning, but not so great for longer cleans. This is why it’s last on our list.

Read our full Shark Wandvac Power Pet review.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRatings
DesignLightweight and comfortable to use.★★★★
PriceThe same price as some upright vacuums.★★★★
SuctionPowerful brushless motor.★★★★★
FeaturesTwo tools that are ideal for cleaning up after pets.★★★★★

The best pet vacuum for stains

A Shark StainStriker with a white exterior, hose, and blue tankReal Homes Rated Silver Badge

(Image credit: Shark)
This effectively sucks up old and new pet stains

Specifications

Capacity: 0.72L
Weight: 8.5 lbs.
Size (in.): H11.3 x W11.7 x D11
Cord length: 15 ft.
Price: $139.99

Reasons to buy

+
Works well on old, dry stains
+
Great on pet mess
+
Good value for money
+
Easy to use and clean

Reasons to avoid

-
Bad on oil stains
-
A little noisy
Buy it if

💕 Your home is carpeted: It works best on carpeted floors.
💕 Your pet regularly has accidents: It cleans and doesn’t leave odors.
💕 You have deep-set stains: It can remove older stains.

Don't buy it if

❌ Your pet scares easily: It is a little bit noisy.
❌ You only have hardwood floors: It’s made for carpets.
❌ You have oily stains: It doesn’t work well on older ones. 

The bottom line

✨ Shark StainStriker PX201 If you’re finding yourself constantly cleaning up after your pet and scrubbing your carpets, this will save you hassle. 

Let’s be real: Pets aren’t known for being super tidy. This is especially the case if you have a puppy that you’re training or an older pet. If you have stains from these accidents consistently occurring or even deep-set ones from previous ones, this Shark Stain Striker will come in useful. 

Our reviewer Camille tested it out on both wet stains and dry stains, and found it incredibly effective on both. She also said that it removed any nasty odors, which is great news for those who know how gross pet mess can get. She advised that this could be especially handy for cat owners who repeat spray when their scent lingers. It also comes with a specialist pet stain-trapping tool, as well as a hose-cleaning tool. 

The only negatives that she had were that it didn’t work properly on old oil stains and that it is a little loud. If you have pets that hate loud noises this might not be for you — but it isn’t much noisier than a standard vacuum.

Read our Shark Stain Striker review.

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Test results
AttributesNotesRating
DesignEasy to use and easy to clean.★★★★★
PriceGreat value for money.★★★★★
SuctionPowerful suction on wet and dry stains.★★★★
FeaturesPet Stain Trapping Tool, a Hose-Cleaning Tool, Shark CarpetXpert & Stain Striker cleaning solutions★★★★

Compare these pet vacuums

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Pet vacuumsOur verdictHeader Cell - Column 2
Shark Stratos IZ862HA superb all-rounder, and our overall favorite.Row 0 - Cell 2
Bissell IconPetPerfect for smaller homes and apartments.Row 1 - Cell 2
Dyson Ball Animal 2Plenty powerful for the deepest cleans.Row 2 - Cell 2
Miele Complete C3 Cat and DogThe best for those suffering with allergies.Row 3 - Cell 2
iRobot Roomba S9A great robot vacuum that empties and charges itself.Row 4 - Cell 2
Dyson OutsizeThe best cordless Dyson for pet hair.Row 5 - Cell 2
Shark Vertex AZ2002The best choice for those with long-haired pets.Row 6 - Cell 2
Shark Cylinder Pet Vacuum CZ2001Perfect for those who need to deep clean regularly.Row 7 - Cell 2
Shark WandVac PowerPetThe best handheld vacuum for pets.Row 8 - Cell 2
Shark StainStriker PX201Brilliant on old and new stains.Row 9 - Cell 2

How to choose the best pet vacuum for you

In terms of style and type, you can get a stick, canister, and upright vacuums designed for pet hair so this will come down to your own preferences. Here's what you'll need to consider before committing to your new pet vacuum:

1. Which type of flooring do you have?
First, what type of flooring do you have? If your pets tend to shed throughout the house, it can be beneficial to opt for a vacuum that is adaptable to all floor types such as carpet and hardwood or laminate floors. If you have carpet, you will want a vacuum with a good brush roll to lift the hair from the pile.

2. Would you prefer corded or cordless?
Consider what spaces you will need to vacuum. Dyson’s ball technology is easier to maneuver around and into corners, while the best cordless vacuum will make it easier to get to those hard-to-reach areas and also allow you to vacuum your car. 

3. What about a robot vacuum cleaner?
A robot vacuum cleaner is great for the floor but you will likely need a second vacuum to do a thorough job of the rest of your home. A robot vacuum could be an ideal solution for pets that get irritated by the loud sound of a vacuum. An easy alternative is to schedule it for when you and the pet are out for stress-free cleaning.

If your pet ever jumps on the furniture, (it's inevitable) you will definitely need a vacuum with brushes and attachments to help remove fur. Plus, your pup or cat might not love having a robot vacuum invade their personal areas, such as near a crate or food bowl, so spot cleaning with a smaller handheld or normal vacuum is smart. 

4. Does it have to be bagless?
Some may prefer a vacuum cleaner with a bag, especially those who are particularly allergy sensitive, but it's worth bearing in mind that you'll have to keep buying new bags, making them more expensive in the long run. While a bagless cleaner can be messier to empty, most are removable or can be poured directly into the trash can.

5. Do you require a large capacity dust bin?
If you've got more than one pet, check the vacuum's capacity so you don't have to empty it too often. Naturally, the smaller and more lightweight the vacuum, the smaller its capacity. If you have an animal that sheds a lot, you'll want to choose a vacuum with a larger dust bin, since hair doesn't exactly compress in a vacuum, as other debris does. 

4. Suction power is important
This is one of the most important features of a good vacuum cleaner. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers list the suction power of their machines with a standard unit of measurement such as air watts (AW), making it hard to compare models. Instead of listing the power of various models in different units, we have only included vacuums that have exceptional suction power so you know you are getting the best. Vacuums with bad suction have not made it onto this list.

5. Will its noise level bother you?
Consider this if you have a little one at home all day who naps or a pet who doesn't like loud noises.

6. Do you like a certain brand?
Most of the major vacuum brands such as Dyson, Bissell, and Shark have now introduced specialized vacuums for pet hair, which have much stronger suction and often feature allergy filters for those who are particularly sensitive. They'll also stop the hair from simply being pushed around the carpet and releasing irritants into the air.

Don't miss our guide on how to vacuum like a pro to discover the techniques to get it done quicker and better. Or if you're looking for a cheap vacuum cleaner deal, we've got lots of those, too.

How we test vacuums for pet hair

Shark Stratos Anti Hair Wrap Plus Pet Pro vacuum folded down with Doug the Pug sitting beside it

Shark vacuum in review with Pug in shot

(Image credit: Future/Annie Collyer)

At Real Homes we like to get hands-on experience with the products we feature in our buying guides. It's part of our commitment to our review process. Whether that's to attend product demonstrations or to test them for a few weeks (sometimes months) in our own homes, you know that these vacuum cleaners for pet hair have had a member of our team analyze them before including them in this roundup. We also seek out other reviewers' opinions so all experiences are taken into account.

During testing, we look for factors such as maneuverability, run-time, bin size and emptying, filtration, and ease of use, so you know exactly what you are getting for your money. We test these vacuum cleaners with typical household dirt such as crumbs, dust, and pet hair for a real-life comparison to your own household.

Meet our pet vacuum cleaner reviewers:

Christina Chrysostomou selfie
Christina Chrysostomou

Christina is the ecommerce editor at Real Homes and she tested the Shark Wandvac Power Pet. Her sister's dog, Hugo, an American XL Bully who loves to visit, is forever leaving stray hairs behind, so she wanted to find a way to clean his hair once he leaves.

Headshot of Annie Collyer
Annie Collyer

Annie tested the cordless Shark Stratos IZ862H model and she loved it so much that it's currently her go-to vacuum. It works to collect the pet hairs her pug, Doug, leaves behind on a daily basis and she loves the range of attachments that come with it. The fact it automatically adjusts suction for you makes it easy to use. It also works with scent pods to make your home smell nice as you vacuum.

Camille Dubuis-Welch Deputy Editor RealHomes.com
Camille Dubuis-Welch

Camille is the former deputy editor of Real Homes where she covered a broad range of topics, including house tours, small space design, and gardens. She tested the Shark StainStriker in her home.

Jennifer Oksien illustration
Jennifer (Jen) Oksien

Jen is now the homes editor on TechRadar. Previously she has written for Ideal Home, Real Homes, and Homes & Gardens as the appliances editor. She has tested a number of vacuums in her time, including the Dyson Outsize from this guide, which is a favorite vacuum of hers.

Jaclyn Turner illustration
Jaclyn Turner

Jaclyn was previously ecommerce editor at Real Homes, where she oversaw sleep content including mattresses and bedding. She has also tested a number of vacuums for us at home, a space that she shares with her Cavapoo Reese, in order to tell us which vacuums are the best at dealing with pet-related messes. She tested out the Shark Vertex Upright Vacuum with Powered Lift-Away on this list, which is a premier corded vacuum model for pet hair. 

Image of Sarah Warwick, freelance contributor
Sarah Warwick

Sarah has reviewed many vacuum cleaners for Real Homes, taking them through their paces at home to give us an honest, real-life opinion and comparison on every model. From this list, she's had hands-on experience with the Dyson Animal Ball 2 and the Miele Complete C3 Cat & Dog.

Linda Clayton head shot
Linda Clayton

Linda is a freelance journalist who has specialized in home tech, interior design, and fitness for more than two decades. She has tested plenty of vacuums for Real Homes, including the iRobot Roomba S9+ on this list. She tested out this vacuum in her home, to find out how well they performed across various floor types and how they coped with busy family life and her three super-fluffy, world-class molting dogs. 

Image of Molly Cleary author photo
Molly Cleary

Molly has reviewed numerous vacuums for us at Real Homes, and tested out the Shark Cylinder Pet Vacuum CZ2001 on this list. Previously, she has written about everything from ride-on lawnmowers to robot hoovers. She is currently an ecommerce editor at our sister title Ideal Home.

FAQs

When is the best time to buy a vacuum for pet hair?

We use price trackers like camelcamelcamel and Google Shopping to monitor fluctuations in retailer pricing and guide you on the best time to buy a vac based on previous discounting history. Generally speaking, Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Cyber Week are good times, but don't be surprised to see some items cheaper outside of these obvious sale periods.

What is the best vacuum for pet hair?

If you want something that's easy to use, easy to maneuver, and even more simple to store, then the Shark Stratos Cordless with Clean Sense IQ IZ862H (which you can buy from Amazon) is definitely your best bet. Our resident pet Doug (Annie's Pug), gave this vacuum a run for its money and the cleaning machine managed to conquer the dander. It automatically adapts its suction based on how clean (or dirty) your floors are, plus it works with scent pods to emit a lovely smell as you clean your floors.

What makes a vacuum great for pet hair?

Most vacuums outfitted for households with pets will feature increased suction, some sort of pet tool or brush, a motorized brush roll (as opposed to sheer suction) to really dig out hair and particles, and an emphasis on its filtration system. Most pet vacuums, especially the middle to high-end options, will feature high-efficiency filters, brush rolls that are self-cleaning, or anti-hair wrap tech.

Eve Smallman
Staff Writer

Hi there! I’m a staff writer at Real Homes. I've been a lifestyle journalist for over five years, previously working as an editor across regional magazines. Before this, I graduated from Nottingham Trent University a degree in journalism, along with an NCTJ gold diploma. I love running, decorating my rented Victorian home, and discovering new cheeses. 

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