Does your vacuum constantly fight a losing battle against pet hair? You sweep, you vacuum, and yet those stubborn strands cling to your carpets and upholstery. If you own a Shark Navigator Lift-Away, you already know its versatility. But the right pet power brush can make all the difference in keeping your home fur-free. In this review, we take a close look at two top contenders: the Shark ZU561 Navigator Lift-Away Speed Self and the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner (NV352). Both are designed to handle pet messes, but they come with different brush roll technologies and features. Whether you need a self-cleaning brush for long hair or a budget-friendly workhorse for daily pickup, our guide will help you decide.

Interested in keeping your Shark running like new? Check out our guide on best Shark UltraCyclone Pet Pro replacement parts for maintenance tips that apply across many Shark models.

Buying Guide: What to Look For in a Shark Navigator Lift-Away Pet Power Brush

Self-Cleaning Brush Roll vs. Standard Brush Roll

One of the biggest frustrations with pet hair vacuums is tangling. A self-cleaning brush roll like the one in the Shark ZU561 actively removes hair as you vacuum, so you never have to cut strands off with scissors. This is a game changer for homes with long-haired pets or humans. The standard brush roll on the NV352 works well but requires occasional manual cleaning. If convenience matters most, invest in a model with a self-cleaning mechanism.

Lift-Away Portability and Attachments

Both vacuums feature the Lift-Away design, which lets you detach the canister and carry it to clean stairs, furniture, and above-floor areas. But the included tools matter. The ZU561 comes with extra pet-specific tools like a pet multi-tool and crevice tool. The NV352 includes a standard crevice tool and dusting brush. For thorough pet hair removal on upholstery, a specialized pet tool is a huge plus. Check the vacuum parts & accessories category for additional brush heads if you need more reach.

Filtration for Allergy Sufferers

Pet dander and dust can trigger allergies. The ZU561 uses Anti-Allergen Complete Seal Technology combined with a HEPA filter to trap over 99.9% of allergens inside the vacuum. The NV352 also includes a HEPA filter, but its seal may not be as tight. If you or a family member has asthma or allergies, the superior filtration of the ZU561 is worth the extra cost. For more floor care options, visit our floor cleaners page.

Maneuverability and Suction Control

Navigating around furniture and transitioning between carpets and hard floors should be effortless. The ZU561 features swivel steering and a suction control slider to adjust power for different surfaces. The NV352 is lighter and easier to carry, but its fixed suction may be too strong for delicate area rugs. If you have a mix of surfaces, look for adjustable suction or a brush roll that can be turned off for bare floors. For upright vacuum options, browse our upright & canister vacuum category.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between these two Shark models comes down to your priorities. If you want the ultimate convenience with a self-cleaning brush roll, superior HEPA filtration, and a full set of pet tools, the Shark ZU561 Navigator Lift-Away Speed Self is our top recommendation for homes with heavy shedding pets. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter, more budget-friendly option that still delivers reliable pickup and the flexibility of Lift-Away, the Shark Navigator Lift-Away Upright Vacuum Cleaner (NV352) is a solid choice for everyday cleaning and occasional pet hair. Both vacuums will keep your floors cleaner and your home more comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Shark Navigator Lift-Away pet power brush work on hardwood floors?

Yes, both models can be used on hardwood floors. The ZU561 includes a suction control slider to reduce power for bare floors, and its brush roll can be turned off if needed. The NV352 has a standard brush roll that is safe for sealed hardwood, but you may want to use the hard floor attachment for best results. Always check your floor warranty before vacuuming.

How do I clean the brush roll on the Shark ZU561?

The ZU561 features a self-cleaning brush roll that automatically removes hair wraps while you vacuum. Simply engage the self-cleaning mode (usually a button on the handle) and the brush roll rotates in reverse to push hair into the dust cup. You may still need to occasionally remove longer strands that get caught at the ends, but maintenance is minimal.

Can I use third-party brush rolls on the Shark Navigator Lift-Away?

We recommend using genuine Shark brush rolls to maintain performance and avoid damaging the vacuum. Third-party parts may not fit properly or could void your warranty. For replacement parts, check the vacuum accessories page for verified options that work with your model.

Which Shark Navigator Lift-Away is better for pet hair, ZU561 or NV352?

For heavy pet hair, the Shark ZU561 is the better choice because of its self-cleaning brush roll and additional pet tools. The NV352 is still effective for moderate pet hair but requires more manual cleaning of the brush. If you have multiple shedding pets, invest in the ZU561 for a more hassle-free experience.