Best rated pet vacuum with 5 Top Picks

As a pet owner myself, I know the struggle is real. Dog hair, cat dander, scattered kibble – it seems like it’s a never-ending battle against the furry tumbleweeds that accumulate daily. I’ve spent countless hours trying to find a vacuum that genuinely tackles pet mess without clogging, losing suction, or just pushing hair around. It’s frustrating, and honestly, sometimes it feels like my old vacuum just wasn’t up to the task of being a truly best rated pet vacuum. That’s why I’ve put these five highly-regarded pet vacuums through their paces, digging into what makes them stand out and how they perform in real-world scenarios. We’re talking deep-pile carpets, sleek hardwood floors, and even those awkward staircases. My goal is to help you cut through the noise and find a reliable pet hair vacuum that makes your home feel clean and allergen-free, giving you more time to enjoy cuddles with your furry friends instead of constantly cleaning up after them.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away |…	View on Amazon
	Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…	View on Amazon
	Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright…	View on Amazon
	Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful…	View on Amazon
	Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with…	View on Amazon

Shark | Upright Vacuum Cleaner | Navigator Lift-Away |…

This Navigator Lift-Away model from Shark is a fantastic all-rounder for pet owners, especially if you deal with pet hair on various surfaces. What I really appreciate is its versatility – it feels like having two vacuums in one. The ability to detach the pod makes cleaning stairs, upholstery, and car interiors so much easier than lugging around a full upright. Plus, its anti-allergen complete seal with a HEPA filter gives me peace of mind, knowing it’s not just picking up pet dander but also trapping those tiny particles effectively, which is a huge bonus for anyone sensitive to allergens. It transitions smoothly between carpet and bare floors, making my weekly cleaning routine less of a chore.

Key features that stand out:
* LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for easy above-floor and tight-space cleaning.
* ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL with HEPA filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
* BRUSHROLL SHUTOFF: Seamlessly switch between deep carpet cleaning and gentle bare floor cleaning.
* PERFECT FOR PET OWNERS: Specifically designed to pick up pet hair and deep-clean dander.
* SWIVEL STEERING: Offers excellent maneuverability around furniture and obstacles.

Pros:
* Highly versatile with its lift-away feature for thorough cleaning everywhere.
* Excellent filtration system for allergy sufferers.
* Effective on multiple surfaces thanks to the brushroll shutoff.
* Large dust cup means fewer interruptions to empty.
* Comes with useful pet-specific attachments.

Cons:
* Can feel a bit bulky as an upright in tighter spaces before engaging lift-away mode.

Best for: Pet owners seeking a versatile upright vacuum with excellent allergen filtration for whole-home cleaning.

Expert Opinion: This model’s strength lies in its adaptability. The Navigator’s Lift-Away design combined with a robust HEPA filtration system makes it a smart choice for homes with diverse cleaning needs and individuals sensitive to pet allergens. It’s a solid contender for the best rated pet vacuum title due to its comprehensive cleaning capabilities.

Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright Bagless Vacuum with…

The Bissell 2252 CleanView is a straightforward, no-nonsense upright vacuum that really delivers on pet hair removal. What immediately impressed me was its swivel steering, which makes navigating around furniture and corners surprisingly easy, turning what used to be a wrestling match with my old vacuum into a smooth glide. The Triple Action Brush Roll is another highlight; it genuinely digs into carpets to loosen and lift embedded pet hair, which is crucial for my furry friends’ favorite napping spots. And knowing that every purchase supports the BISSELL Pet Foundation adds a nice touch, making me feel good about my choice.

Key features that stand out:
* SWIVEL STEERING: Enhances maneuverability around obstacles.
* TRIPLE ACTION BRUSH ROLL: Loosens, lifts, and removes embedded pet hair from carpets.
* MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING with SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Prevents scattering of dry pet messes on hard floors.
* EDGE-TO-EDGE CLEANING: Ensures pet hair and debris are picked up even along baseboards and corners.
* Supports BISSELL Pet Foundation: A portion of each purchase helps save homeless pets.

Pros:
* Excellent at picking up embedded pet hair from carpets.
* Maneuverable and easy to steer around the house.
* Prevents scattering of debris on hard floors, which is a common issue with pet hair.
* Cleans effectively right up to edges and into corners.
* Supports a good cause.

Cons:
* Lacks a dedicated HEPA filter, which might be a drawback for severe allergy sufferers.

Best for: Pet owners who need a powerful, maneuverable upright for significant pet hair on both carpets and hard floors, and appreciate contributing to a pet charity.

Expert Opinion: The Bissell 2252 excels in core vacuuming performance, particularly its ability to tackle embedded pet hair and prevent scatter on hard surfaces. Its swivel steering makes it a user-friendly option for routine cleaning, establishing it as a strong contender in the best rated pet vacuum category for everyday use.

Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet Upright…

This Shark NV752 is a powerhouse, and you can feel it from the moment you turn it on. It takes the convenient Lift-Away feature up a notch with Powered Lift-Away Technology, meaning the brushroll keeps spinning even when you detach the canister. This is a game-changer for cleaning under low-lying furniture or reaching high spots where pet hair tends to accumulate. The LED headlights are surprisingly useful, illuminating hidden pet hair and dust bunnies that I would’ve otherwise missed. As someone with allergies, the Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with HEPA filter is non-negotiable, and this model delivers, making a noticeable difference in air quality.

Key features that stand out:
* 2-IN-1 POWERED LIFT-AWAY TECHNOLOGY: Brushroll continues to spin even when the pod is detached for deep cleaning.
* ADVANCED SWIVEL STEERING: Provides superior control and maneuverability.
* ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL with HEPA filter: Traps 99.9% of dust and allergens.
* LARGE-CAPACITY DUST CUP (0.88-quart): Allows for longer cleaning sessions.
* LED HEADLIGHTS: Illuminates hidden debris and pet hair.
* MULTI-SURFACE CLEANING (Fingertip controls): Easy switching between floor types.
* PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes a self-cleaning Pet Power Brush for upholstery and stairs.

Pros:
* Powered Lift-Away is excellent for consistent cleaning power in hard-to-reach areas.
* LED headlights reveal unseen pet hair, ensuring a thorough clean.
* Superior allergen trapping with HEPA filter for healthier homes.
* Self-cleaning Pet Power Brush is a fantastic addition, preventing hair wrap.
* Very effective on multiple surfaces, from hard floors to thick carpets.

Cons:
* It’s on the heavier side compared to some other models, especially when used as a full upright.

Best for: Pet owners prioritizing deep cleaning and advanced versatility, especially those with allergies and a lot of hidden pet hair.

Expert Opinion: The Powered Lift-Away functionality truly sets the NV752 apart, offering consistent suction and brushroll action across all cleaning modes. Its combination of powerful pet-specific tools, HEPA filtration, and LED headlights makes it an elite choice for addressing comprehensive pet hair and dander challenges, solidifying its place among the best rated pet vacuum options.

Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off with Powerful…

The Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off is a serious contender for anyone whose main battle is against pet hair and associated allergens. The name says it all – it’s designed to erase pet hair. The Tangle-Free Brush Roll is a dream come true; I’ve had so many vacuums get clogged with hair, but this one really minimizes that hassle. The Lift-Off Detachable Pod is incredibly handy for targeted cleaning, making quick work of cat trees or dog beds. But the real star for me is the HEPA Sealed Allergen System, ensuring that once pet dander is vacuumed up, it stays trapped, not re-released into the air.

Key features that stand out:
* POWERFUL SUCTION: Effectively tackles dirt, fur, and dust.
* LIFT-OFF DETACHABLE POD: Provides lightweight, convenient cleaning for hard-to-reach areas.
* HEPA SEALED ALLERGEN SYSTEM: Captures dust allergens inside the vacuum, preventing their escape.
* TANGLE-FREE BRUSH ROLL: Specifically designed to minimize hair wrap and clogging.
* SCATTER-FREE TECHNOLOGY: Ensures efficient cleaning of dry pet messes on hard floors without scattering.
* XL TANK CAPACITY (1L): Large dirt tank for longer cleaning sessions with easy, one-touch emptying.
* INCLUDED TOOLS: Comes with a 2-In-1 Dusting Brush/Crevice Tool and a TURBOERASER Pet Tool.

Pros:
* Outstanding pet hair pick-up with a truly tangle-free brush roll.
* Excellent HEPA sealed allergen system for a healthier home environment.
* Versatile lift-off design for comprehensive cleaning.
* Large dirt tank reduces the frequency of emptying.
* Scatter-Free Technology is effective on hard floors.

Cons:
* While powerful, some might find it a bit louder than other models.

Best for: Pet owners with significant pet hair challenges, those prone to allergies, and anyone tired of cleaning hair wrapped around their brush roll.

Expert Opinion: This Bissell excels as a dedicated pet hair vacuum. Its Tangle-Free Brush Roll is a standout innovation, directly addressing a common pet owner frustration. Coupled with the HEPA Sealed Allergen System and powerful suction, it’s an undeniable choice for anyone seeking the best rated pet vacuum that prioritizes pet hair eradication and allergen control.

Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with…

Here’s another great Shark Navigator Lift-Away model, but this one brings a crucial improvement for pet owners: a self-cleaning brushroll. This feature alone makes it incredibly appealing because, let’s be honest, untangling hair from a brushroll is nobody’s favorite chore. It’s fantastic at picking up pet hair without the hassle. Like its Navigator siblings, the Lift-Away functionality makes cleaning versatile, letting me reach under furniture or clean upholstery with ease. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology with a HEPA filter is again present, which is essential for managing pet dander and improving air quality.

Key features that stand out:
* SELF-CLEANING BRUSHROLL: Engineered for more pet hair pickup with no hair wrap.
* LIFT-AWAY FUNCTIONALITY: Detachable pod for versatile cleaning, including under furniture and above-floor.
* ANTI-ALLERGEN COMPLETE SEAL TECHNOLOGY with HEPA filter: Traps dust and allergens inside the vacuum.
* PERFECT FOR PETS: Includes a Pet Crevice Tool for hard-to-reach spaces.
* SWIVEL STEERING: Easy maneuverability around obstacles.
* UPHOLSTERY TOOL: Effectively picks up pet hair and debris from delicate fabrics and surfaces.

Pros:
* The self-cleaning brushroll is a game-changer for pet hair, eliminating tangles.
* Highly versatile with the Lift-Away feature for all areas of the home.
* Excellent allergen filtration with HEPA for a cleaner environment.
* Strong pet hair pickup on various surfaces.
* Maneuverable and easy to use.

Cons:
* The dust cup capacity is slightly smaller than some other models.

Best for: Pet owners who specifically want to avoid hair wrap on their brushroll while still getting excellent pet hair pickup and versatile cleaning.

Expert Opinion: This Navigator’s inclusion of a self-cleaning brushroll is a significant upgrade for pet owners, tackling one of the most common maintenance headaches. Combined with the reliable Lift-Away design and HEPA filtration, it provides a compelling argument for being a best rated pet vacuum, especially for those with long-haired pets.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When looking for the best rated pet vacuum, you’ll notice a few key features pop up repeatedly, but how they’re implemented can make all the difference. For instance, both Shark Navigator models ([PRODUCT_IMAGE_1] and [PRODUCT_IMAGE_5]) and the Shark Rotator ([PRODUCT_IMAGE_3]) boast Lift-Away functionality, which is invaluable for reaching high or tight spots. However, the Shark NV752 Rotator takes it a step further with Powered Lift-Away, meaning the brushroll continues to spin even when detached, offering superior deep cleaning for stairs and under furniture compared to its Navigator counterparts where the brushroll typically stops.

When it comes to battling allergens, all the Shark models and the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser ([PRODUCT_IMAGE_4]) feature an Anti-Allergen Complete Seal with a HEPA filter. This is a critical feature if pet dander or dust allergies are a concern in your home, ensuring particles are trapped and not recirculated. The Bissell 2252 CleanView ([PRODUCT_IMAGE_2]), while excellent at pet hair removal, lacks a HEPA filter, which might be a dealbreaker for some allergy sufferers.

For those frustrated by hair tangles on the brushroll, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off ([PRODUCT_IMAGE_4]) and the Shark Upright Vacuum, Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll ([PRODUCT_IMAGE_5]) are clear winners. Their tangle-free or self-cleaning brushrolls are engineered to prevent hair wrap, saving you the annoying task of cutting hair out of the roller. This is a huge time-saver and makes maintenance much easier.

Maneuverability is another big one, and all five models offer swivel steering. This makes navigating around furniture and obstacles much smoother. However, the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright ([PRODUCT_IMAGE_2]) truly highlights its swivel head as a core benefit, making it exceptionally nimble. The LED headlights on the Shark NV752 Rotator ([PRODUCT_IMAGE_3]) are also a surprising bonus, making hidden pet hair visible on any surface.

Finally, while all are great for pet hair, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off ([PRODUCT_IMAGE_4]) and the Shark NV752 Rotator TruePet ([PRODUCT_IMAGE_3]) come with dedicated, often self-cleaning, pet tools designed specifically to remove ground-in dirt and hair from upholstery and stairs, giving them an edge for intensive pet clean-up jobs. Your choice often comes down to balancing versatility, allergen control, and specific pet hair challenges like tangles or deeply embedded fur.

Final Verdict

Choosing the best rated pet vacuum isn’t a one-size-fits-all decision; it really depends on your specific needs and challenges as a pet owner.

If allergen control and ultimate versatility are your top priorities, the Shark NV752 Rotator Powered Lift-Away TruePet stands out. Its powered lift-away, HEPA filtration, and specialized pet tools make it a premium choice for comprehensive cleaning and allergy management.

For those who are tired of tangled hair on the brushroll and want a reliable solution, the Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Allergen Lift-Off or the Shark Navigator Lift-Away with Self-Cleaning Brushroll are fantastic choices. Both offer innovative tangle-free technology combined with strong pet hair pickup. The Bissell also boasts a HEPA system, making it great for allergies too.

If you’re looking for a powerful, maneuverable upright that won’t break the bank and handles everyday pet hair with ease, the Bissell 2252 CleanView Swivel Upright is a solid contender. It delivers on performance and maneuverability, making routine cleaning less of a chore, especially if you’re less concerned about HEPA filtration.

And for a great all-around option that balances features and price, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away (without the self-cleaning brushroll) is a very capable choice, offering good versatility and allergen control for most homes.

Ultimately, any of these five models would be a significant upgrade for tackling pet hair, but by considering their unique strengths, you can pick the one that truly fits your home and lifestyle.

FAQ Section

Q1: What makes a vacuum the “best rated pet vacuum” for homes with animals?
A1: A best rated pet vacuum typically features strong suction power to lift embedded pet hair, specialized brushrolls (often tangle-free or self-cleaning) to prevent hair wrap, excellent filtration like HEPA to trap pet dander and allergens, and versatile attachments for cleaning upholstery, stairs, and tight spaces where pet hair accumulates.

Q2: Is a HEPA filter really necessary in a pet vacuum?
A2: For many pet owners, especially those with allergies or asthma, a HEPA filter is highly recommended. It traps 99.9% of microscopic particles, including pet dander, dust mites, and pollen, preventing them from being recirculated into the air, thereby improving indoor air quality.

Q3: What’s the benefit of “Lift-Away” functionality in a pet vacuum?
A3: Lift-Away functionality allows you to detach the canister or pod from the main vacuum body, transforming it into a portable cleaner. This is incredibly beneficial for cleaning pet hair off stairs, furniture, curtains, or even inside your car, offering much greater versatility than a standard upright.

Q4: Do “tangle-free” or “self-cleaning brushrolls” actually work to prevent hair wrap?
A4: Yes, they largely do! These innovative brushroll designs are specifically engineered with features like fins or specific bristle patterns to actively prevent long hair (human and pet) from wrapping and tangling around the roller. This significantly reduces maintenance and ensures consistent cleaning performance, making them a top feature in a best rated pet vacuum.

Q5: Can I use a regular vacuum for pet hair, or do I need a specialized one?
A5: While a regular vacuum can pick up some pet hair, a specialized pet vacuum is designed to handle the unique challenges that pet hair and dander present. They have stronger suction, better filtration, and specific tools to pick up stubborn pet hair from various surfaces without clogging or losing efficiency, making them a far more effective choice for pet owners.

Q6: How often should I vacuum with a pet vacuum if I have shedding pets?
A6: For homes with shedding pets, vacuuming every other day, or even daily, is often recommended to keep pet hair, dander, and allergens under control. A powerful and efficient best rated pet vacuum makes this frequent cleaning much more manageable and less time-consuming.

Q7: Are bagless pet vacuums better than bagged ones?
A7: Both bagless and bagged pet vacuums have their pros and cons. Bagless vacuums are convenient as they don’t require bag purchases and have clear dust bins to see how much they’ve collected. However, emptying them can release some dust and allergens back into the air. Bagged vacuums offer a more hygienic disposal, sealing allergens away, but require ongoing bag purchases. Your preference often comes down to convenience versus allergy sensitivity.