I have had the Shark professional for the past few years, I have 3 dogs and I needed to up grade. After extensive research on vacuums I decided to go with this one( I couldn't justify spending $500-$600 on a vacuum). So far I'm happy with my purchase. I like the power this one has it propels it's self forward on the thick carpets and it feels like the vacuum is hard at work picking up all the dog hair. Just like any vacuum that you use to clean up hair eventually you are going to have to get down with scissors and cut out the hair and strings that get caught in the head. It has a light on the end of the wand which I like too because it helps you see the floor better so you get up all the dirt. All in all I would recommend this machine to anyone with fur baby's!