After my Dyson died, I picked up a Shark Navigator (bag less) at Bed Bath and Beyond. It works so much better then the overpriced Dyson. I think it was about $150.00. We have a Lab, sucks that hair right up. No frieze, but I do have plush carpet in the bedrooms.

I have seen the Navigator recommended a lot. We have a Sebo, another expensive German brand, but I like German technology.

The Shark navigator, for pet hair it's the bomb. Our stairs and upstairs are a mid range Frieze carpet and I've always loved how cozy it feels under foot, it never shows dirt, animal accidents clean easy and it wears well too. Ours is 10 years old this year and doesn't look a day over 3. If you have to have carpet, it's the best option (IMO)

I can't offer any suggestions, because we don't have carpet, but I feel your pain. I plan (hope) to never have carpet again. Just remember you won't be there long and it sounds like a nice rental. I have heard good reviews on the Shark Navigator though.

I have a Dyson Animal (the stick one) in my apartment, and purchased the newer V6 Absolute model for the house.

We have two dogs and nothing has picked up fur better. It also picks up the tiniest dust particles. I tested it on a rug that was cleaned with a dirt devil, and was amazed at how much dirt was still being sucked up by the V6.

I also have a Roomba that I use when we're out. It does a basic job, but you can't beat that it's hands free and you don't even need to be home to use it.

Miele is another excellent vacuum (my mother swears by hers) but I prefer the Dyson for how easy it is to use.