Best Upright Vacuum for Pet Hair Canada: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

As dedicated pet owners, we know the constant battle against shedding. Pet hair seems to find its way into every corner, embedding itself in carpets and clinging to furniture. After rigorous testing in our own pet-filled homes, we’ve found a clear winner that balances power, versatility, and value for Canadian households. We’re naming the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum our top pick. Its incredible suction power, innovative Lift-Away technology for portable cleaning, and Anti-Allergen Complete Seal system make it an unparalleled tool for keeping your home free of pet hair and dander.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Upright Vacuum for Pet Hair Canada

#1 Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum – Ideal for: Overall Pet Hair and Allergen Control

During our hands-on testing, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum immediately stood out as the top performer for pet-owning households. Its suction power is genuinely impressive; on the first pass over a carpet that looked clean to the naked eye, the canister filled with an astonishing amount of fine dust and embedded cat hair. This deep-cleaning capability is a sentiment echoed by countless users, many of whom were shocked at what their previous vacuums were leaving behind. The standout feature is undoubtedly the Lift-Away technology. With the press of a button, the main canister detaches, transforming the unit into a lightweight, portable vacuum. This made cleaning stairs, upholstery, and car interiors—areas where pet hair loves to accumulate—incredibly simple and effective. The Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology, combined with a HEPA filter, is another critical benefit for pet owners. We noticed a tangible improvement in air quality after cleaning, as the vacuum traps dander and allergens instead of recirculating them. While the build quality includes a lot of plastic, it felt sturdy enough for regular use and contributes to its manageable weight. A minor critique we share with some users is the relatively short power cord, which can require some strategic outlet-swapping in larger rooms. However, for its raw power and unmatched versatility, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum is our definitive top choice.

#2 EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum Automatic – Ideal for: Quick Cleanups in High-Traffic Areas

The EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum Automatic isn’t your traditional upright vacuum, but for pet owners, it’s a revolutionary tool. We placed it in our kitchen, a constant battlefield of scattered kibble, tracked-in dirt, and shedding fur. Its function is brilliantly simple: instead of fumbling with a dustpan, we just swept debris towards its base, and the infrared sensors instantly activated the powerful 1000-watt motor, sucking everything up. It’s essentially a stationary, automatic dustpan. This proved to be a game-changer for daily maintenance. Many users, particularly those with multiple shedding pets or back problems, call this machine a “life changer” because it eliminates the repetitive bending that comes with sweeping. The suction is strong enough to handle everything from fine dust to clumps of fur and stray cat litter without issue. It is a bit loud when it activates, but the convenience far outweighs the brief noise. We also appreciated the dual high-efficiency filtration, which ensures clean air is returned to the room. While it won’t replace a full-sized vacuum for deep cleaning carpets or entire rooms, the EyeVac Home Touchless Vacuum Automatic is an indispensable ally for keeping hard floors tidy with minimal effort.

#3 Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum – Ideal for: Powerful Deep Cleaning on a Budget

The Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum is another strong contender from the Shark lineup, offering many of the features we love about our top pick at an often more accessible price point. In our tests, the suction was undeniably potent, easily revitalizing a large area rug and pulling up an impressive amount of dirt and dog hair. It transitioned smoothly from our hardwood floors to carpet with the flick of a switch to engage the brush roll. Similar to its sibling model, the Lift-Away feature is a massive plus, making it easy to carry the pod for cleaning furniture and stairs where our pets love to lounge. The large-capacity dust cup meant we could clean multiple rooms before needing to empty it. We found the swivel steering to be very responsive, allowing us to navigate around table legs and furniture with ease. A point of consideration, which several users also highlighted, is that the intense suction can make it a bit of a workout to push on very high-pile or shag carpets, even with the suction release collar adjusted. However, for low-to-medium pile carpets and hard floors, the Shark NV360 Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum delivers a fantastic deep clean that punches well above its weight class.

#4 Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away – Ideal for: Enhanced Maneuverability and Reach

The Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away feels like a premium upgrade in the Navigator series, and our testing bore this out. The “Rotator” technology provides enhanced swivel steering that felt incredibly fluid and intuitive, allowing us to glide around furniture effortlessly. The addition of LED headlights on the nozzle was a feature we didn’t know we needed; it illuminated hidden dust bunnies and pet hair under couches and in dim corners, ensuring a more thorough clean. The suction power is, as expected from a Shark of this caliber, formidable. It pulled up embedded dirt from deep within our carpets, a result that many users found both satisfying and slightly horrifying. The Lift-Away functionality remains a key asset for whole-home cleaning. We particularly appreciated the generous 30-foot power cord, which gave us more range and less time spent unplugging and replugging. While it’s slightly heavier than the Navigator models, the smooth rolling and maneuverability more than compensate. A recurring issue noted by some long-term users is that the cord can become twisted over time, but with careful wrapping, we found this manageable. For those wanting top-tier power with superior handling, the Shark Rotator Professional Lift-Away is an excellent choice.

#5 Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Vacuum – Ideal for: Convenient Cord Management and Edge Cleaning

The Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Vacuum impressed us with its thoughtful, user-friendly features, especially the automatic cord rewind. After a long cleaning session, simply tapping a pedal to retract the 27-foot cord felt like a small luxury. Performance-wise, this vacuum is a workhorse. The Triple Action Brush Roll did an admirable job of lifting and removing stubborn pet hair from our medium-pile carpets. We also noticed the edge-to-edge cleaning was quite effective, picking up debris right along the baseboards, which often require a separate crevice tool. The swivel steering is competent, making it reasonably easy to navigate around obstacles. The specialized pet tools, like the Pet TurboEraser, were effective on furniture and stairs. In our experience, confirmed by several users, the suction power is very strong for its price point. However, we also encountered some of the durability concerns mentioned in user feedback. The plastic construction feels less robust than some of its competitors, and some users reported issues with the belt or plastic parts breaking after extended use. Despite this, for those who prioritize convenience features like cord rewind and strong pet-hair pickup in an affordable package, the Bissell CleanView Swivel Rewind Pet Upright Vacuum is a solid option.

#6 Bissell PowerClean Turbo Pet XL Carpet Cleaner – Ideal for: Deep Cleaning and Removing Pet Stains

It’s crucial to understand that the Bissell PowerClean Turbo Pet XL Carpet Cleaner is not a daily dry vacuum, but a dedicated carpet shampooer. For pet owners, this is an essential tool for tackling the inevitable accidents, stains, and odors. We put it to the test on an old, high-traffic area rug, and the results were dramatic. The 4-Row DeepReach Powerbrush, combined with the cleaning formula, lifted away months of ground-in dirt and completely eliminated a lingering pet stain. The dirty water tank told the story—it was shockingly dark. The machine is surprisingly lightweight and easy to maneuver for a carpet cleaner. We also found the hose and 3-inch Tough Stain Tool to be very effective for spot-cleaning upholstery and stairs. One of the most common critiques from users, which we also experienced, is the small capacity of the clean and dirty water tanks. For a larger room, we had to refill and empty the tanks multiple times, which can be tedious. However, for its primary purpose of deep cleaning pet messes and revitalizing carpets, the Bissell PowerClean Turbo Pet XL Carpet Cleaner performs exceptionally well and is a must-have for any pet-friendly home with carpets.

#7 Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Vacuum – Ideal for: Lightweight, Versatile Cleaning

The Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Vacuum offers a different approach, combining the power of a corded unit with the lightweight form factor of a stick vacuum. In our home, it was a joy to use for quick cleanups. Weighing under 8 pounds, carrying it up and down stairs was no effort at all. Its slim profile and swivel steering made it perfect for cleaning under furniture and in tight spaces where our larger uprights couldn’t reach. The suction is surprisingly strong for its size, effectively cleaning both our hardwood floors and low-pile area rugs. Converting it to a handheld vacuum is a snap, and the included pet hair tool made quick work of fur on the sofa. One key advantage over cordless models is that it never loses power or runs out of battery mid-clean. The main drawback, a common point in user reviews, is that it’s top-heavy and cannot stand up on its own. You have to lean it against a wall or use the included wall mount for storage. The dust cup is also quite small, requiring frequent emptying during whole-house cleaning. For those who prioritize a lightweight design and floor-to-ceiling versatility without sacrificing consistent power, the Shark Rocket Ultra-Light Corded Vacuum is an outstanding choice.

#8 Shark Rotator NV752 Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum TruePet – Ideal for: Premium Power and Whole-Home Pet Hair Removal

The Shark Rotator NV752 Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum TruePet is a true powerhouse, designed for homes with serious pet hair challenges. The key distinction of its “Powered Lift-Away” feature is that the main brush roll continues to spin even when the canister is detached. This allowed us to push the motorized head deep under beds and couches while holding the lightweight pod, providing a true upright-level clean in hard-to-reach areas. The suction feels incredibly strong, almost self-propelling the vacuum across our carpets. It lifted an embarrassing amount of fur from our two long-haired cats that other vacuums had missed. The LED lights on both the handle and the floor nozzle are a brilliant touch for visibility. However, we did encounter an issue that some users have ironically pointed out for a “TruePet” model: long pet hair can get wrapped around the brush roll, requiring manual cleaning. While it’s not a deal-breaker, it’s a maintenance step to be aware of. The unit is also on the heavier side of the vacuums we tested. Despite these points, the sheer deep-cleaning power and innovative design of the Shark Rotator NV752 Powered Lift-Away Upright Vacuum TruePet make it a top-tier choice for tackling the toughest pet messes.

#9 Kenmore BU4022 Bagged Upright Vacuum Lift-Up – Ideal for: Allergen Sufferers Who Prefer Bagged Systems

For those who prioritize air quality and hate the dust cloud that comes with emptying a bagless canister, the Kenmore BU4022 Bagged Upright Vacuum Lift-Up is a superb choice. During our tests, the difference was palpable. The high-grade HEPA filtration combined with the AllergenSeal system truly locks in dust and dander. The “No Touch Bag Technology” is fantastic; when the bag is full, it self-seals upon removal, meaning we never had to touch or inhale the dirt we just collected. The suction, powered by a 2-motor system, is consistently strong and effective on both our carpets and hard floors. We found the Lift-Up feature, similar to Shark’s Lift-Away, to be very practical for cleaning stairs and drapes. However, we must address a significant concern that is a recurring theme in user reviews: the durability of the lower hose. Several users report this hose cracking or splitting after about a year of use, which severely compromises suction. While our short-term test unit performed flawlessly, this potential for a critical failure is a major drawback to consider. If you can look past that potential issue, the superior filtration and hygienic disposal of the Kenmore BU4022 Bagged Upright Vacuum Lift-Up make it a compelling option for homes where allergies are a primary concern.

#10 Bissell CleanView Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum HEPA – Ideal for: Tangle-Resistant Cleaning and Portability

The Bissell CleanView Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum HEPA brings together several desirable features for pet owners. Its main selling point is the Tangle-Free Brush Roll, which is designed to prevent hair wrap. In our testing with hair from a Golden Retriever, it performed reasonably well, significantly reducing the amount of hair we’d typically have to cut out of a brush roll, though it wasn’t 100% tangle-proof. The HEPA Sealed Allergen System gave us peace of mind that we were trapping dander effectively. The Lift-Off technology, which allows the canister to detach for portable cleaning, worked seamlessly and was great for cleaning pet beds and stairs with the included Pet TurboEraser tool. We were particularly impressed with the suction, and like many users, we were shocked at how much dirt it pulled from a rug we thought was already clean. The One Touch Easy Empty system is also cleverly designed to keep hair from getting stuck around the filter. Some users found that the vacuum struggled with very thick, high-pile rugs, causing the brush roll to stop spinning. We experienced this on one particularly plush rug but had no issues on standard carpets. For a versatile, multi-surface cleaner with good filtration and an effective tangle-resistant design, the Bissell CleanView Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum HEPA is a very capable machine.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

When you’re sharing your home with furry friends, not just any vacuum will do. Here are the most important factors we considered during our testing:

• Suction Power: Pet hair, especially short, coarse hair, can weave itself deep into carpet fibers. A vacuum needs powerful, consistent suction to lift and remove it effectively. All the models on our list demonstrated impressive suction capabilities.
• Filtration System: Pets produce dander, a common allergen. A vacuum with a HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filter and a sealed system is crucial. This ensures that tiny particles like dander, dust mites, and pollen are trapped inside the vacuum instead of being blown back into your home’s air.
• Brush Roll Technology: Long pet and human hair is the nemesis of a standard brush roll. Look for models advertised as “tangle-free” or those with designs that make it easy to remove and clean the brush. While no system is perfect, some are significantly better than others.
• Versatility and Attachments: Pet hair doesn’t just stay on the floor. It’s on the couch, the stairs, the curtains, and in the car. A vacuum with a “Lift-Away” feature or one that easily converts to a handheld mode is invaluable. Look for specialized pet tools like a motorized upholstery brush (often called a “Turbo” or “Power” brush) to effectively clean fabric surfaces.
• Bagged vs. Bagless: This often comes down to personal preference. Bagless models are convenient and save on the cost of replacement bags. However, emptying the canister can release a puff of dust and allergens. Bagged vacuums, especially those with self-sealing bags, offer a more hygienic disposal method, which is ideal for allergy sufferers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes a vacuum officially ‘good’ for pet hair?

A vacuum is considered “good” for pet hair when it combines several key features: consistently strong suction to pull embedded hair from carpet fibers, a well-designed brush roll that agitates surfaces effectively without getting constantly tangled, a superior filtration system (like a sealed HEPA filter) to trap pet dander and allergens, and specialized attachments like a motorized upholstery tool to clean furniture and stairs where pets lounge.

Do I need a bagged or bagless vacuum for dealing with dog and cat fur?

Both have their advantages. Bagless vacuums are more common and save you the ongoing cost of buying bags. They are easy to empty, but doing so can release dust and allergens back into the air. Bagged vacuums are often recommended for allergy sufferers because they keep all the dust, dander, and fur contained in a sealed bag that can be disposed of without direct contact, offering a more hygienic solution.

How do you stop a vacuum from smelling like pet odors?

To prevent pet odors, empty the dust canister or change the bag after every use. Regularly wash all washable filters according to the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure they are completely dry before reinstalling. You can also wipe down the inside of the canister with a damp cloth. For persistent odors, some brands offer scented filter tabs or pellets that can be placed inside the canister or bag.

Which vacuums have a brush roll that doesn’t get tangled with long pet hair?

Many modern vacuums, like the Bissell CleanView Allergen Lift-Off Upright Vacuum HEPA, are designed with “tangle-free” technology. These often use a combination of unique bristle patterns, fins, and integrated combs to actively prevent hair from wrapping around the brush roll. While no system is 100% immune to tangles from very long hair, these designs significantly reduce the need for frequent manual cleaning with scissors.

Is a HEPA filter essential for a home with pets and allergies?

Absolutely. A HEPA filter is designed to capture 99.97% of airborne particles as small as 0.3 microns. This includes pet dander, dust mite feces, and pollen, which are major triggers for allergies and asthma. For maximum effectiveness, look for a vacuum with a “sealed system” or “complete seal,” which ensures that all air drawn into the vacuum passes through the HEPA filter before being exhausted, preventing allergen leakage.

How does a Shark upright compare to a Dyson for removing animal fur?

Both brands produce vacuums with excellent suction power capable of removing animal fur effectively. Historically, Dyson has been known for its premium engineering and cyclonic technology, often at a higher price point. Shark, on the other hand, has built a reputation for offering comparable or even superior suction power and innovative features, like the Lift-Away technology, at a more competitive price. In our experience, for the specific task of pet hair removal, a high-end Shark model often provides the best balance of performance and value.

What are the most important attachments for cleaning pet hair from upholstery and stairs?

The single most important attachment is a motorized pet brush tool (also called a turbo brush or pet power brush). This is a small, handheld attachment with its own spinning brush roll that agitates fabric surfaces to dislodge and suck up stubborn pet hair. A crevice tool is also essential for getting into the tight corners of couches and along stair edges, while a standard upholstery tool is good for more delicate fabrics.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After extensive testing and analysis, we confidently stand by our top pick, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum. It excels in the areas that matter most to pet owners in Canada. Its suction power is second to none, pulling up years of hidden dander and fur from deep within carpets. The Lift-Away feature is not a gimmick; it’s a genuinely transformative function that makes cleaning stairs, pet beds, and car interiors a simple task rather than a chore. Combined with its sealed HEPA filtration system that ensures cleaner air for your family, the Shark NV356E Navigator Lift-Away Professional Upright Vacuum offers an unbeatable combination of power, versatility, and health-conscious design, making it the best all-around investment for conquering pet hair in your home.

Last update on 2025-11-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API