If you share your home with a shedding dog or cat, you know the struggle of keeping plush carpets and upholstery free of embedded fur. The Kenmore Elite Ultra Plush 700 Series Bagged canister vacuum, model 81714, promises to make this easier with its PetPowerMate and ultra-plush nozzle. In this review, we’ll examine whether this canister vacuum lives up to its pet-friendly claims and if it’s the right choice for your home in 2026.
We’ve spent time evaluating this model’s suction, maneuverability, and filtration to give you an honest assessment. For pet owners considering an upright alternative, our Kenmore Elite 31150 review offers a comparison point, but here we focus on the canister design’s unique advantages.
Buying Guide: What to Look for in a Pet-Friendly Vacuum
Suction Power and Motor System
For pet hair, suction is non-negotiable. The Kenmore Elite Ultra Plush 700 Series Bagged features a 2-motor system that delivers deep cleaning power on carpets, rugs, and hard floors. This dual-motor setup ensures that even deeply embedded fur gets lifted, not just surface debris.
When comparing uprights, you might want to check our best upright vacuum for dog hair guide, but a canister like this one offers similar suction with more flexibility for above-floor cleaning.
Filtration and Allergen Control
Pet dander is a major trigger for allergies, so a sealed system is crucial. This Kenmore model features a completely sealed system with HEPA filtration, trapping 99.97% of dust and particles down to 0.3 microns. That means the allergens stay in the bag, not in your air.
If you have both carpets and hard floors, you’ll appreciate that this vacuum can transition easily, but for hardwood-specific needs, see our best upright vacuum for hardwood floors article for alternatives.
Maneuverability and Reach
Cleaning under furniture and reaching high corners is a breeze with the telescoping wand that extends to 9.5 feet. The swivel steering system and integrated LED headlights on both the nozzle and wand make it easy to see and navigate around obstacles.
This canister’s design is particularly user-friendly for multi-level homes, as you can carry the canister body while using the wand for stairs. For a more traditional upright experience, you might consider the Shark Stratos AZ3002, but the Kenmore’s reach is unmatched.
Pet-Specific Attachments
The motorized PetPowerMate is the star for pet owners. It lifts embedded pet hair from upholstery, carpet, and stairs with its rotating brush roll. This attachment is specifically designed to tackle the stubborn fur that regular vacuums miss.
When you have multiple pets, this feature can save you hours of manual cleaning. For a deeper dive into what makes a vacuum truly pet-friendly, our guide on the best upright vacuum for home use provides additional context.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing the Kenmore Elite Ultra Plush 700 Series Bagged, we’re confident it’s a top contender for pet owners who want deep cleaning power and allergen control. Its combination of a sealed HEPA system, powerful 2-motor suction, and the PetPowerMate makes it a versatile choice for homes with furry friends. For those who prefer an upright, the Kenmore Elite Ultra Plush 700 Series Bagged still offers the same innovative features, but if you’re open to a canister, this model is a smart investment in your home’s cleanliness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Kenmore Elite 81714 good for pet hair?
Yes, the Kenmore Elite Ultra Plush 700 Series Bagged is excellent for pet hair. Its motorized PetPowerMate attachment is designed to lift embedded fur from carpets, upholstery, and stairs, and the powerful 2-motor system ensures deep cleaning. In 2026, this remains a top choice for pet owners.
Does the Kenmore Elite Ultra Plush have HEPA filtration?
Yes, this vacuum features a completely sealed system with HEPA filtration, capturing 99.97% of dust and allergens down to 0.3 microns. This is ideal for households with allergy sufferers or pets that shed dander.
Can I use the Kenmore Elite 81714 on hardwood floors?
Absolutely, the Kenmore Elite Ultra Plush 700 Series Bagged is versatile enough for hard floors. You can turn off the brush roll or use the appropriate setting to avoid scratching, and the LED lights help you spot debris. For more hardwood-specific tips, check our guide on the best upright vacuum for hardwood floors.
How long is the cord and does it rewind automatically?
The vacuum comes with a 26-foot cord that retracts automatically with the push of a button. This feature saves you from manually winding the cord, making storage and cleanup quicker and easier.
