I have the Dyson Animal and it is a lot heavier than other vacuums I have used. Also, sometimes when I vacuum throw rugs, the rugs get stuck in the beater bar and it makes a terrible grinding sound.
However, we have 2 German Shepherds, and it does a really good job picking up all the dog hair.
I don't think I would buy a Dyson again; maybe if it was made lighter. I bought this one about 4 years ago with a BBB 20% off coupon.