The Dyson Animal DC17 is by far the BEST vacuum I have ever had.  We have 3 dogs in our house, which equals a LOT of dog hair.  I am still shocked every time I vaccum at how much dog hair and dirt the Dyson Animal gets out of the carpets.  My old vacuum didn't come close to picking up the same amount of dirt and hair.  I really feel that the Dyson Animal helped my carpets look and feel more like brand new.  It works great on the couches with the attachments, and it is so easy to move around the room.  I really like how long the cord is, too.  I don't have to constantly un-plug it and move...