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Looking for the best robot vacuum for pet hair?
You’ve come to the right place.
This buying guide will help you find the best robotic vacuum for pet and dog hair that meets your needs and budget – in 5 minutes or less.
What’s In This Guide
On this page you’ll find a table comparing the very best robot vacuums for pet and dog hair sold today, with our top picks noted for most people’s needs.
Following the table, we review each cleaner in detail.
At the bottom of the page there’s an in-depth buying guide with answers to frequently-asked questions about robotic vacuums for pet hair, dog hair and allergies.
Best Robot Vacuums for Pet & Dog Hair: Top Picks Compared
All of our top picks in the table below are unique in some way. Some sweep and mop, some can be controlled via your smartphone, some clean only one room while others clean an entire floor.
If you suffer from allergies, then note that half of the robotic vacuums below incorporate HEPA air filters – an absolute must if you want to survive allergy season!
last update: November 21, 2019
Roomba i7+
- Our Top Pick
Run time:
2 hoursRecharge and resume
Charging time:
3 hoursWi-Fi
Remote
Side brush
Boundaries:
Virtual wallHEPA
Debris bin:
500mlFull bin indicator
Roomba 980
- Excellent Multi-Room Cleaner
Run time:
2 hoursRecharge and resume
Charging time:
2 hoursWi-Fi
Remote
Side brush
Boundaries:
Virtual MallHEPA
Debris bin:
600mlFull bin indicator
Neato Botvac D6 Connected
- Best Value
Run time:
2 hoursRecharge and resume
Charging time:
2.5 hoursWi-Fi
Remote
Side brush
Boundaries:
Virtual Wall via appHEPA
Debris bin:
700mlFull bin indicator
SHARK ION R85
- Powerful
Run time:
1 hourRecharge and resume
Charging time:
3 hoursWi-Fi
Remote
Side brush
Boundaries:
Floor stripsHEPA
Debris bin:
600mlFull bin indicator
eufy Boost IQ 11S
- Great Price!
Run time:
100 minutesRecharge and resume
Charging time:
5-6 hoursWi-Fi
Remote
Side brush
Boundaries:
NoneHEPA
Debris bin:
600mlFull bin indicator
Roomba 690
- Most Proven Single-Room Cleaner
Run time:
1.5 hoursRecharge and resume
Charging time:
2 hoursWi-Fi
Remote
Side brush
Boundaries:
Virtual MallHEPA
Debris bin:
600mlFull bin indicator
Roomba 890
- Great Multi-Room Cleaner
Run time:
1.5 hoursRecharge and resume
Charging time:
2 hoursWi-Fi
Remote
Side brush
Boundaries:
Virtual MallHEPA
Debris bin:
300mlFull bin indicator
iLife V3S Pro
- Excellent Value
Run time:
100 minutesRecharge and resume
Charging time:
5 hoursWi-Fi
Remote
Side brush
Boundaries:
NoneHEPA
Debris bin:
300mlFull bin indicator
Ecovacs DEEBOT N79S
- Cheapest Alexa-Compatible
Run time:
2 hoursRecharge and resume
Charging time:
4 hoursWi-Fi
Remote
Side brush
Boundaries:
NoneHEPA
Debris bin:
450mlFull bin indicator
Best Robotic Vacuums for Pet & Dog Hair: Reviews
Roomba I7+: Best Robot Vacuum for Pet & Dog Hair (Our Top Pick)
If you love the hands-free vacuuming that a Roomba provides but hate that you have to keep emptying the bin, the Roomba i7+ is here to save you that trouble.
The Roomba i7+ is the latest robot vacuum cleaner from iRobot. It is also the most advanced.
The most notable upgrade is the automatic dirt disposal system.
After it finishes vacuuming, the Roomba i7+ goes back to its docking station where collected debris is sucked out and into the Clean Base.
The Clean Base can hold up to 30 bins worth of debris, meaning you can go for weeks without emptying it. And because the dirt is held in a disposable bag, you never have to touch the dirt and debris.
This new Roomba also comes with more power, better smarts, and improved cleaning performance overall.
The only downside is the price.
FEATURES
The automatic bin-emptying system is not the only new feature in the Roomba i7+.
For the first time in a Roomba, you can now also access an interactive map through the app.
In previous models the robot generated a map did not let you label different rooms or send the robot to clean a specific room.
This is now possible in the Roomba i7+ thanks to the improved iAdapt 3.0 navigation system and the camera-powered vSLAM system.
You can even specify which rooms the Roomba will clean on specific days.
The Roomba i7+ stores up to 10 unique floor maps, which is handy for multilevel homes.
In terms of cleaning performance, the i7+ boasts more powerful suction, re-designed dual roller brushes, and a side brush.
It picks up pet hair easily on all types of floors, including carpets and rugs.
Unlike most robot vacuums, it deep cleans the carpet rather than just picking the hair and debris on the surface.
Like most Roombas, you can send Alexa or Google Assistant voice commands to the i7+ using a smart home speaker or your smartphone.
LIMITATIONS
You probably already suspect this, but the Roomba i7+ is pricey. It is the most expensive model in the Roomba lineup.
But considering the new upgrades and the improved cleaning performance, the price tag is not surprising.
As has happened with other Roombas, the price will come done in a few months.
Also related to price, there is the matter of ongoing costs. You have to buy the 3-pack replacement bags every few months. Each pack costs about $17.
Beyond the money, there are complaints that the Dirt Disposal System is loud, almost as loud as an upright vacuum cleaner.
It will take some getting used to, both for your family and pets.
SUMMARY
The Roomba i7+ is the best robot vacuum cleaner for those who are looking for their first robot vacuum or upgrading from an older model.
PROS
- Excellent cleaning performance; picks up pet hair and other allergens with ease
- Lots of smart features, including voice commands and smart navigation
- The interactive map makes it easier to control movement and schedule
- Automatic debris emptying
- Easy maintenance; no debris to empty for weeks
CONS
- Expensive; ongoing expenses add to the initial cost
- Dirt disposal system is loud
Neato Botvac D6: Best Alternative to a Roomba
If you are looking for a less expensive Roomba alternative, the Neato Botvac series is a great choice.
The Botvac D7 is the top-of-the-line model from Neato, directly competing against the Roomba 980 and the new Roomba i7+.
The Botvac D6 slots in just below the D7. It comes with some of the smart features found in the i7+, including voice commands and floor mapping.
When it comes to cleaning performance, the Botvac D6 does not disappoint. Neato says it was designed with pet owners in mind, and they optimized it to pick pet hair, dander, and allergens.
Definitely check out the D6 if you are looking for a full-featured multi-room cleaner you can control and monitor remotely.
FEATURES
All Neato Botvac robot vacuums have a protruding disk on top which contains a LIDAR module, the laser-based navigation system the D6 and other Botvacs use to map the floor and avoid obstacles.
Using the LIDAR system, the Botvac D6 generates a map of your home layout as it cleans.
You can then access this map on the app and use it to designate no-go zones where you do not want the robot to vacuum.
If you have multi-story home, the robot can store up to three different floor plans.
The Botvac D6 does a great job picking up pet hair on carpets and hard floors.
The extra-wide rolling brush underneath picks up more pet hair than other robot vacuums. It also does not struggle as much with long hairs, a problem for most robots.
A side brush sweeps in dirt hiding along the edges and in corners.
The signature D-shape of Botvac vacuums is a big help when it comes to cleaning corners.
Unlike the rounded edge of most robot vacuums, the flat edge of this Botvac runs flush against the wall to pick up more hair and debris.
Suction power is not too shabby. The D6 can deep-clean most low-pile carpets. Turn on Turbo Mode for better performance on thicker carpets.
In terms of smarts, the Botvac D6 provides easy remote control via their smartphone app. You can also send voice commands from Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant.
LIMITATIONS
As is the case with most Wi-Fi robot vacuums, set up can be a hassle. You may have to try several times before you are able to connect the robot to your home network and your phone.
The manual has a helpful troubleshooting section, and you can always contact customer support.
One other thing to expect is a slight learning curve.
You have to monitor the robot closely during the first few cleans. It tends to get tripped easily by carpet fringes, furniture legs, and other obstacles.
You may have to rearrange a few things until you can comfortably leave the robot to clean without worrying it will get trapped.
SUMMARY
If you want the power and performance of a Roomba without paying a fortune, the Botvac D6 is a great choice.
PROS
- Great value for money; much cheaper than a top-end Roomba but cleans almost as well
- Excellent cleaning performance on all surfaces, including fairly thick carpets
- Wide roller brush picks up a lot of pet hair
- Virtual no-go lines make it easy to limit where the robot goes
- Alexa and Google Assistant compatible
CONS
- Takes time to set up
- There a learning curve for new owners
Roomba 980: Our #2 Pick
While the Roomba 980 is not advertised as a robot vacuum cleaner specifically for pets, it was our top robotic vacuum for pet hair for the past 3 years until the i7+ arrived.
This is because the 980 does a superb job of picking up pet hair and removing allergens from the air in a multi-room apartment or single floor of a home.
The Roomba 980 has huge suction power and twin scrubbing brushes tackle the tough job of removing pet hair from hardwood/tile floors and even thick shag carpet, and it cleans multiple rooms.
And of course, you get Roomba’s latest smartphone app which you can use to monitor and control cleaning while you are not home.
Just keep an eye on the dust bin, which you have to empty yourself.
FEATURES
The 980 is the most powerful Roomba sold.
It uses their new AeroForce cleaning system and implements a carpet boost technology that increases the power of the vacuum when it is on thicker carpet or areas that are extra dirty.
The 980 also automatically recharges when needed and then goes back to where it left off and finish the job.
LIMITATIONS
When it comes to iRobot 980, there are a few limitations.
The battery life could definitely be better, and at times the robot will get stuck under the furniture.
Another downfall of this robot vacuum is that it is expensive.
But from a pure cleaning performance standpoint, the Roomba 980 remains the best robot vacuum for cleaning pet hair from both hard surfaces and carpet with the least amount of effort on your part.
Shark Ion R85: Most Cleaning Power For The Money
You no longer have to spend a lot of money to get a robot vacuum with a decent amount of power and smart features.
For roughly a quarter, the cost of a Roomba i7+, the SHARK ION R85 is powerful enough to vacuum pet hair and other debris on all kinds of floors. A-MAX mode delivers even more power for enhanced performance on carpets and rugs.
It comes with remote app control as well as voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant, features normally reserved for $500+ robot vacuums.
For the price, there are some sacrifices you have to make. Most notable is the lack of a navigation system, meaning the R85 cleans slower and is best suited for small and medium-sized apartments.
FEATURES
The R85 is not quite as powerful as a Roomba i7+. Still, or its price, it is surprising how well it picks up pet hair and debris.
A self-cleaning brush roll collects pet hair and pushes it inside the bin while side brushes sweep in dust and debris from corners and along the edges.
The suction is powerful enough for cleaning a low-pile carpet.
Turn on Max mode, and it can tackle a medium-thick carpet as well.
The R85 does not exactly have a smart navigation system. It will not map your home.
Instead, it has what Shark calls Smart Sensor Navigation 2.0. This makes it better at sensing and evading obstacles as it cleans.
If you want to limit movement to a certain area, use the included 8-foot BotBoundary strip.
This is not as convenient as making virtual no-go zones in an app or using Roomba’s virtual wall barrier, but it will do.
The Shark ION R85 is WiFi-connected so you can control it remotely from your smartphone.
You can also send voice commands via Alexa or Google Assistant either your phone or a smart speaker.
LIMITATIONS
The lack of a navigation system limits the R85’s cleaning efficiency. It moves around your home in a random path and sometimes leaves spots uncovered.
If you have a large home, this is not the best robot vacuum cleaner. The Roomba i7+ or Botvac D6 with efficient multi-room navigation would be a better choice.
Another issue mentioned by many verified owners is noise. You will probably want to schedule cleanings when everyone is away from home.
When you are at home, turn on quiet mode to reduce noise levels. Unfortunately, quiet mode also lowers the cleaning performance.
SUMMARY
The Shark ION R85 gives you the best cleaning power for your money. You also get smart features that are uncommon at this price point.
This makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and smart robot vacuum on a budget.
PROS
- Great value for money
- Easily picks up pet hair and debris
- Voice commands and remote app control
- Multiple modes to suit different situations
- Dual side brushes – most robot vacuums have one side brush
- Large capacity bin
CONS
- Not ideal for large homes or complicated multi-room cleaning
- Noisy when in normal and Max mode
Eufy Boost IQ Robovac 11S (Slim): Best Robot Vacuum For People Who Work At Home
The Eufy Boost IQ RoboVac 11s is another great choice if you are looking for a reasonably-priced yet powerful robot vacuum for pet hair.
The Robovac 11s also a great choice if you are at home most of the day or do not care much for smart features like app control and voice commands.
This is because the 11s has no smartphone control or wireless connectivity – this is an old-fashioned robot vacuum with an old-fashioned remote control.
Which also makes it really simple and easy to live with – and the price is tough to beat.
FEATURES
The first thing you notice about the RoboVac 11s is how slim it is. At just 2. 85 inches high, this is one of the thinnest robot vacuums you can buy.
This is not just for aesthetics, the extra-low profile gives the 11s a big advantage when it comes to cleaning.
It can duck under places other robot vacuums cannot go. You do not have to worry about dust and pet hair accumulating under the couch or bed.
With 1300pa of suction power, the 11s is powerful enough to pick up pet hair, dust, food crumbs, and other debris from any kind of flooring.
When cleaning hard floors, the side brushes help sweep in dirt from the edges.
When it gets on a carpet, it automatically increases the suction power for a better clean — Eufy calls this Boost IQ Technology.
A triple-filter system captures all the debris, including tiny allergens like dust and pollen.
The 11s has no smart navigation, so we do not recommend it for multi-room cleaning in large homes.
But it can easily find its way back to the dock when the battery dies down.
It also has no remote app control or voice commands. The only option is the included remote control.
You can turn the robot on/off, select a cleaning mode, send the 11s back to the dock, or set an auto-cleaning schedule.
LIMITATIONS
If you want a robot vacuum, you can control and monitor when you are at the office or on vacation; the RoboVac 11s is not it.
This is because it has no Wi-Fi connectivity so you cannot control it remotely.
Of course, that does not affect its cleaning performance.
But one issue that does affect the cleaning performance of the Robovac 11s is its inability to sense black floors and carpets. The cliff sensors that prevent the robot from falling down the stairs may also see a black floor as a drop-off, which stops the robot in its tracks.
One easy solution is to tape over the sensor, but that can send the robot tumbling down the stairs.
SUMMARY
The RoboVac 11s is a great choice for those who want a no-frills, low-cost robot vacuum cleaner that picks up pet hair and dirt.
PROS
- Affordable
- Powerful suction – picks up pet hair with ease
- Multiple cleaning modes
- Scheduling function
- The slim design makes it easy to vacuum under furniture
CONS
- Has trouble with black floors
- No remote app control or voice commands
Roomba 690 / 650 / 655: Most Proven Single-Room Pet/Dog Hair Vacuum
The iRobot Roomba 650 and its latest incarnation the Roomba 690 are two of the best-selling robot vacuums of all time and for a good reason.
The Roomba 650 / 690 is a value-conscious purchase for cleaning one room at a time.
It does not have all the features of more recent cleaners, but it does the job that it was designed to do and is a really reliable appliance, something that most robotic vacuums of its era cannot claim.
The price on this series has come down quite a bit, so if you are sold on buying a Roomba and you only need to clean one big open plan room, then definitely look at the 650/655/690 series.
Roomba 890: Best Value (Multi-Room)
What I love about intelligent robot vacuum cleaners like the Roomba 890 is that they can clean multiple rooms without having to move them from room to room manually.
The Roomba 890 is one of the least expensive intelligent robotic vacuums that can clean multiple rooms.
This makes it a perfect budget buy for working people who aren not home that much or travel for a living.
Using the included dual-mode virtual wall barrier, you can keep the robot from entering certain rooms or areas.
Because the 890 is a Wi-Fi-connected device, you can also tell it when to clean using the iRobot HOME app. You can also set an automated daily cleaning schedule while you are out of town.
ILife V3S Pro: Best Value For Hardwood Floors
Who said you have to spend hundreds of dollars to get a good robot vacuum cleaner?
Yes, pricier Roombas have lots more features and provide a deeper clean.
But many bargain robot vacuums will cost you less than half the price of a Roomba and clean equally well on hard surfaces, where brushes and suction power are not as important.
The iLife V3s Pro is one of the best budget robot vacuums for pet hair you can buy.
While it lacks a lot of the features of pricier robots like Wi-Fi, remote app control, and smart navigation, when it comes to actual cleaning, it does a surprisingly good job.
On the word of advice, however: do not buy this robot vacuum if you have a carpeted floor.
It lacks a rolling brush which is essential in picking up pet hair on carpeting. The side brushes only work well on hard flooring.
If this limitation works for you, then great – go save a few hundred dollars!
FEATURES
The iLife V3s Pro robot vacuum has a few cleaning features that make it a good buy for someone with pets.
The spinning side brushes do a great job on tile, hardwood, and other types of hard flooring.
They sweep pet hair into the path of the vacuum for vacuuming.
They are especially handy along the edges and corners. The robot even has a dedicated edge/wall cleaning mode.
The suction is powerful enough for hard floors and is will pick up every bit of dust and pet hair on the floor it touches. A fine filter traps all this debris into a sizable bin.
There are bonus features as well to make the robot easier and more convenient to use.
It comes with remote control with which you can manually steer the robot, set a specific cleaning mode, and configure an automated vacuuming schedule.
The iLife V3s Pro also has an auto-recharge feature. When the battery goes low during cleaning, it will automatically make its way back to the charging base.
LIMITATIONS
The lack of a rolling brush is a major limitation. It prevents the V3s Pro from being useful on carpeting. Only homeowners with hard flooring will appreciate its cleaning ability.
The robot also lacks smart navigation. It will move about randomly for around 3 hours and then return to the dock. It takes longer to finish cleaning an area, and it has no multi-room cleaning capability (but it can navigate an open plan area).
Another downside is that you cannot control the robot from work or vacation. It has no Wi-Fi. But TBH, it is hard to find any robot vacuum in this price range with Wi-Fi.
SUMMARY
The iLife V3s Pro delivers a lot of value for very little money. As long as you use it on hard floors only, it is just as good as a Roomba when it comes to dealing with pet hair.
PROS
- A budget robot vacuum with excellent value. Excellent cleaning ability on hard floors
- Includes auto-scheduling, auto recharge, and multiple cleaning modes
CONS
- Doesn not pick pet hair on carpets, not even low-pile carpets
- No smart navigation; takes longer to clean
Ecovacs Deebot N79S: A Proven & Popular Choice
ECOVACS is another popular brand known for its budget robot vacuum cleaners.
Their DEEBOT N79S is one of their most popular, and for a good reason.
The N79S is one of the least expensive robot vacuum cleaners for pet hair that comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, Alexa compatibility, and smart navigation.
You will not find a more sophisticated, programmable robot cleaner at this price.
Roomba 671: Best Single-Room Robot Vacuum for Pet & Dog Hair
The Roomba 671 is the entry-level robot vacuum in the Roomba series.
But it comes with some features normally reserved for pricier Roombas including Wi-Fi connectivity, Alexa compatibility, smart navigation, and Dirt Detect sensors.
This is a single-room, basic cleaner best suited for hardwood floors, tile floors, and low-rise carpet.
The Roomba 671 is the lowest-priced Roomba you can buy, so if you love the brand and do not need the extra suction power you can save hundreds buying this one.
About iRobot
The company that manufactures the Roomba is iRobot.
iRobot was founded in the year 1990 by roboticists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
The vision of the company at the time was to make practical robots a reality for the everyday household. Since its start, iRobot has sold over 15 million robots throughout the world.
The company started out creating robots that have helped save thousands of lives throughout the world in areas of conflict, have revealed harmful oil in the Gulf of Mexico, and uncovered mysteries of the pyramids.
The first robot that navigated Mars was how the company got its start.
iRobot now has over 25 years of experience in the robot industry, which is just one of the reasons why this brand is considered the innovator in robotic vacuum cleaners.
The company has had many milestones over the years. In 2005 the company released the Scooba, which was a floor washing robot. During that same year, the company became publicly traded on the Nasdaq exchange.
In 2008, the company really started focusing on its home robot vacuum line. Since then, it has launched many robot vacuums including the latest in 2015, the Roomba 980, considered the best robot vacuum on the market today.
The company also just released the Braava 380t jet, which is a mopping robot that is ideal for mopping kitchens, bathrooms, and hardwood flooring.
About Neato
Another top-selling brand of robotic vacuums is Neato Robotics, based in California.
Neato currently offers an XV-series and a newly released BotVac series of robotic vacuum cleaners. The company is rather small, with only about 65 employees.
Unlike the Roomba vacuum cleaners, that tend to randomly go through a room, the Neato robotic vacuums use a navigational mapping system that scans a room and then determines the best and most efficient route to take in order to clean a room.
While Neato has not been around for nearly as long as iRobot, the company has quickly created several really great robot vacuums.
Neato currently has four different models available, and each of them is direct competitors with the Roomba series.
Two Other Good Options
In addition to the great selection of robot vacuums we have provided you above, we thought we would throw in some honorable mentions to round off our extensive robot vacuum list for 2019.
Samsung Powerbot R7070
This robot vacuum is connected and is definitely good at cleaning the floors. When you purchase a new robot vacuum, you are looking for how well it cleans and if you trust that it will do the task at hand. You can cross these boxes off with this vacuum.
It has powerful suction power that it adjusts based on the flooring you are cleaning, and it can easily move around any objects that may get in its way.
It also comes equipped with a camera-based navigation system and can traverse a variety of different flooring types in the home.
FEATURES
Once opening the box, you will find that the Samsung Powerbot requires little setup. You do not have any side brushes to install, and the device does not require batteries.
It comes with magnetic tape that you can use in rooms that you are considering problem areas in the home. For example, rooms that may have too much clutter, cords, or other items that may impede progress. It will not cross the magnetic tape.
There is also an app you can download. The Samsung Smart Things or Samsung Smart home apps are available in the Apple App Store as well as the Google Play Store.
Once you add the vacuum onto the app, you can then view a log of all notifications as well as view the main vacuum control screen.
You will find an Auto Clean mode and Spot Clean Mode you can initiate at any time.
You can also view how much battery is left, choose the suction level, and schedule when you would like the robot vacuum to clean.
LIMITATIONS
Some have found that the Smart Home app may be a little buggy. Also, when scheduling your cleanings, it is easier to do it from the app instead of using the included remote. Some might find this a little frustrating.
When it comes to steering the bot yourself, many users reported that they preferred to control the vacuum with the remote rather than the app.
Scheduling options may also be a tad bit limited when it comes to this robot vacuum because you cannot customize the cleaning schedule for a certain day of the week like you can with the Roomba 690 and the Roomba 960.
The battery life is also unimpressive because it does not last as long as many other robot vacuum brands currently available.
SUMMARY
This robot vacuum is definitely a good choice because it navigates well, cleans well, and can be controlled when needed through the remote.
While the app may cause a few problems here and there, you will still find good value for the money spent.
PROS
- Powerful suction power
- Works well in tighter and harder to reach spaces
- Provides you with a manual steering option
- Adjusts to different floor types
- App control and smart navigation
CONS
- Less than desirable battery life
- Wi-fi features are not always the best due to connectivity issues
- App crashes often
- Alexa integration is also often unreliable
Xiaomi Mi
This is one of the Neato brands biggest competitors because it has many of the features you will find with a Neato robot vacuum, but at a far lesser price point.
The overall design of this robot vacuum is definitely on par with the rest of the devices on this list. It boasts of a sleek and minimalist design but is still very functional.
Due to its improved navigation system and battery, it is also toted as a slight step up from the ILife Robot Vacuum.
FEATURES
This robot vacuum uses 12 different sensors to map out the best and most efficient cleaning pattern possible. It avoids steps and other possible drop areas.
It utilizes a 5,200 mAH lithium-ion battery that will last upwards of 2.5 hours just on a single charge.
It also has a 10 mm edge cleaning meaning that it will stay that far from the wall and instead use its side brushes to clean up any edges.
LIMITATIONS
This particular robot vacuum does not come with its own remote. However, there is an MI Home App that you can download and then use to schedule, clean, and track using a Wi-Fi signal.
It does not have much in the way of extras and accessories, but it still comes at an affordable price point for what it is.
Also, since it is a Chinese product and brand, it does not come with an English manual.
It also struggles a bit when it comes to corner cleaning.
SUMMARY
If you are looking for an affordable robot vacuum, then you will find that this is one of the smarter choices to pick from.
The navigation system alone allows it to stand apart from its competition. It avoids hitting objects and even scans the room to give itself a birdseye view of where it needs to clean before it begins establishing its cleaning path.
There is a laser distance sensor, wall sensor, dust bin sensor, ultrasonic radar sensor, and collision sensor.
PROS
- A few hundred dollars cheaper than other name brand robot vacuums
- Customize schedule and have it clean more than once per day
- Has a HEPA filtration system
- More than efficient cleaning pattern
- Wi-Fi capable so you can control and track the vacuum remotely
- Longer run time
CONS
- Does not come with additional accessories
- No English manual
- The app does not have clear instructions
- Corner cleaning may suffer
Buying Guide: What To Look For
What You Need To Know Before Buying a Robot Vacuum for Pet Hair
If you have pets at home, you probably already know how hectic it can be to keep your floors clean.
The situation is worse if you have several pets or you have one of those high-shedding dog breeds.
You have to vacuum multiple times a day to keep the place clean.
A robot vacuum cleaner makes floor maintenance a breeze. Just switch on the vacuum, and it does all the work for you.
You can even set a schedule for the robot to start cleaning automatically whether you are home or not.
Robotic vacuums are especially handy if you or someone else at home has allergies or a respiratory condition like asthma.
Pet hair and dander can cause allergic reactions and aggravate respiratory problems. With a robot vacuum, it is easy to keep floors clean and allergen-free.
I recommend looking for a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. It captures even the smallest allergens and prevents them from escaping into the air.
Unique Requirements: Robotic Vacuums for Pet & Dog Hair
If you own pets, then do not just buy any robotic vacuum cleaner.
Not all will meet your pet hair cleaning needs, which include:
- Powerful suction for easy pick up of pet hair, especially if you have a lot of carpet
- An anti-tangle roller brush as well as side brushes for effective vacuuming on both hard floors and carpeting
- A large bin that can hold lots of pet hair
- An ultra-fine or HEPA filter that can capture both large and fine particles
- A robot vacuum that is low profile enough to reach under furniture and other hidden areas where pet hair often hides out of sight
Features to Look For When Buying a Robot Vacuum for Pet & Dog Hair
1. Suction Power
This is most important if you have a carpeted area at home. Most robot vacuum cleaners will do fine on hard floors but struggle even on a low-pile carpet.
If you have hard flooring hardwood, tile, vinyl, etc. a budget model with minimum 1000W suction power is enough.
If you have a large carpeted area plus several rugs, I recommend spending a bit more money on a capable model.
Look for those with a power boost feature which increases suction power either automatically when it detects a carpeted area or at the press of a button.
2. Roller Brushes
Do not buy a robot vacuum robot without a roller brush. Some low-cost models come with just the side brushes. These are good with dust and other debris on hard flooring but will not work with pet hair.
A roller brush is designed to pick up lots of hair as the robot moves around. It is especially important if you have rugs or a carpet at home.
3. Large Bins
If your pets shed a lot, the dust bin on your robotic vacuum is going to fill quickly. If it is too small, then you may have to empty the bin midway through the cleaning cycle.
Look for a robot vacuum with a large bin that can hold a lot of debris and pet hair. This will come in handy when you set the vacuum on a schedule and you are not there to empty it.
4. Floor Size and Type
If you have hard flooring throughout your home, a budget robot vacuum cleaner will work fine. You do not need anything expensive or extra-powerful.
If you have a lot of carpeting, however, you will need a powerful vacuum cleaner to pick up dog and pet hair effectively because hair gets wrapped around carpet fibers.
Note: even the most powerful robot vacuum cleaners are not very effective removing pet hair from high-pile and shag carpeting – not nearly as effective an old corded vacuum is.
As for floor size, the features that matter most are battery life and navigation.
Most budget and mid-range robot vacuum cleaners work fine in small and mid-sized homes.
But to properly clean a single floorspace of 2,000 sqft or larger, you need a robot that can navigate that space and has a powerful battery that lasts long enough for the robot to finish cleaning.
For larger rooms and homes, you should only consider premium brands like Roomba and Neato that have smart navigation features and virtual wall/barrier technology that make it possible to clean efficiently without wasting energy. The best models for larger homes also include batteries that last 2 hours or more.
5. Price
Luckily, you do not have to spend a lot of money to get a good quality robotic vacuum cleaner for pet, dog hair and allergies.
If you do not care much about premium features like Wi-Fi and smart navigation, you can get a good robotic vacuum for less than $300. The models in this range tend to come with basic features like scheduling and auto-recharge and tend to clean just one room at a time.
Above $300, there is a large selection of brands and models that clean pet hair quite well. All offer excellent cleaning plus some premium features like remote app control and auto-recharge and resume.
In the $600+ range, you can get a powerful multi-room robot vacuum with all the features you could want.
Cleaning Your Robot Vacuum
First, make sure you set up the robot as instructed in the manual. This will ensure the robot will be able to dock automatically when the battery gets low.
Before it starts cleaning, make sure the floor is clear of clutter. Even the best robot vacuum cleaners get easily tripped by small toys, electrical cords, and clothing items.
For cheaper robot vacuums without smart navigation, you might find it easier to move them manually from room to room. Close the door until the robot finishes cleaning one room.
This will prevent it from wandering around and going over the same areas multiple times.
For smarter robots, you need to set up the virtual boundaries, either using the included barriers or on the app.
Finally, keep the robot vacuum well maintained. Check the manual for instructions.
Empty the bin often, clean the brushes and filters and frequently check that everything is in good working order.
Do not forget to replace components like the filter, brushes, and wheels as recommended by the manufacturer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Robot Vacuums for Pet & Dog Hair
What is the best robotic vacuum for Pet Hair?
After comparing dozens of models and sifting through customer reviews, we think the Roomba i7+ is the best robotic vacuum for pet hair.
Its powerful suction, dual roller brushes and intelligent navigation allows it to pick pet hair easily while missing few spots.
What are the critical features needed in a robot vacuum for pet and dog hair?
The most important feature is the suction power. This is especially important if you have a carpeted area in your home.
A powerful robot vacuum with a suction of at least 1000 pa will be most effective at picking up pet hair and debris.
The design of the brush system is also important. The best robot vacuums for pet hair use a roller brush plus one or two spinning side brushes.
What are the main benefits of buying a robotic vacuum?
With a traditional vacuum cleaner, you probably have to go round the house daily to clean up pet hair and dander.
If you have a heavy shedding dog, you may have to do it several times a day.
A robot vacuum saves you the trouble of manually vacuuming the floor. You can have it vacuum as often as you need.
You can even schedule it to vacuum when you are not home.
Using robot vacuums for pet hair is also very helpful if you or someone in the house has allergies because it can clean more frequently and reach areas where a stick vacuum would not, allergens do not accumulate in the air.
For the elderly and disabled, a robot vacuum makes home maintenance so much easier (and safer). You do not have to push a heavy vacuum around or carry it up to the stairs.
Do I still have to vacuum my floors if I buy a robotic vacuum?
Probably. Robot vacuums, even the expensive ones, do not do a perfect job cleaning carpet. You will need to manually vacuum occasionally for a deep clean.
A robot vacuum may also miss areas like corners or along the edges of a trimmed floor.
Even though you may still need to vacuum after buying a robot vacuum, you will definitely vacuum less frequently. Most robot vacuum owners find that they only need to manually vacuum maybe once or twice a month.
Who makes the best robotic vacuums for pet and dog hair, overall?
Roomba is the best brand of robot vacuums for pet and dog hair. Their suction is more powerful, and their dual-roller design helps them to pick up long hairs that other vacuums are unable to.
Neato Robotics also makes powerful robot vacuums like the Botvac series that are well-suited for picking up pet hair.
What is the best robot vacuum for pet & dog hair – for my money?
If you have a generous budget, then buy the new Roomba i7+. This model is loaded with new features and does a great job picking up any length of pet hair from your hard and carpeted floors.
If you want something less expensive but still powerful, the Neato Botvac D6 is a great alternative. It has almost the same power as the Roomba and most of its smart features but costs several hundred dollars less.
If you are on a budget, we recommend the Shark ION R85 (a Wi-Fi-connected model) or the Eufy Boost IQ RoboVac 11S (low cost but effective).
What is the best robot vacuum for picking up pet hair from carpet?
The Roomba i7+, the Botvac D6, the Shark ION R85, and the Eufy 11s all do a great job picking up pet & dog hair on the carpet.
The Roombas and the Botvac are better for medium to high pile carpets because they have more power.
The Shark and Eufy models are good choices for low to medium pile carpets. They both have a special extra-power mode specifically for carpet vacuuming.
What is the best robot vacuum for picking up pet and dog hair from hardwood floors?
All the robot vacuums we have reviewed including Roomba 980, Roomba i7+, Eufy 11s, and ECOVACS Deebot N79S pick up pet hair with ease on hardwood floors.
Most of them have a roller brush to pick up long dog hairs and smaller side brushes to sweep in hair and dirt from the sides.
What are the best robot vacuums for pets and allergies?
The Eufy RoboVac 11s has a triple filter system, making it one of the best robot vacuums for allergies.
Top models like the Roomba i7+ and Neato Botvac D6 also do a good job collecting and filtering allergens.
What is the best robotic vacuum cleaner for picking up long pet hair?
Roomba robot vacuums generally work great picking up long hair strands due to their dual-roller brush design. The brushes easily pick up long hairs and push them inside the vacuum.
Which is the best Roomba vacuum for pet and dog hair?
The latest model, the Roomba i7+, is the best of the bunch. The Roomba 980 and 890 are also great picks for cleaning pet hair.
