I don't think there is much different between the cheap models and the expensive ones. We have a dog that sheds and have to vacuum frequently. I have a cheap Bissell ($40 at Walmart) that i just purchase to replace the last Bissell that was around 10 years old. With dog hair, I find the bag type is better than the bagless because the bagless models tend to clog a lot, and I find it easier to change a bag than deal with the canister. I figure at this price, even if it only lasts a year or two, it is still cheaper than the top of the line vacuums.