My dog used to pant through every summer afternoon on his old plush bed, and that is what sent me down the rabbit hole of testing the best elevated dog beds on the market. After three months of putting eight different raised dog cots through real-world use with two different dogs (a 70-pound Lab mix and a 35-pound beagle), I have a clear picture of what works, what breaks, and which mesh really survives a digger.
This guide breaks down the top elevated dog beds available right now, including simple mesh cots, chew-proof aluminum models, and beds with bolsters and guardrails for nervous sleepers. I focused on three things during testing: cooling airflow, ease of assembly, and how the frames held up to dogs that jump on and off dozens of times a day. Whether you want an outdoor raised dog cot for the patio, a cooling dog bed for senior pups, or a chew-proof option for an aggressive chewer, the list below has you covered.
Before I get into individual reviews, a quick note on pricing: I never recommend a product based on its tag alone. Every bed on this list was evaluated for value, durability, and real-world dog behavior. If you want a more general overview of heated dog ramp stairs to help older dogs reach a cot on the patio, we have a separate guide for that. Now, let us get into the testing.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Elevated Dog Beds (August 2026)
If you only have 30 seconds, these three picks cover most needs. I picked them based on durability, real cooling performance, and how each held up against heavy use during my testing window.
FXW TitanNest Cooling Chew-Proof XL
- Aluminum frame
- 56 inch for giant breeds
- 15-year lifespan
Best Elevated Dog Beds in 2026
This overview table compares all eight elevated dog beds side by side. Use it to scan key specs before diving into individual reviews.
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Simple Trending Raised Dog Bed for Large Dogs |
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 DOPEDIO Elevated Dog Bed for Large Dogs |
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 Czpalo Outdoor Elevated Dog Bed |
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| Veehoo Outdoor Elevated Dog Bed |
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 FXW TitanNest Padded Chew-Proof |
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| FXW TitanNest Cooling Chew-Proof XL |
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 Veehoo Elevated with Three-Sided Fence |
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 Veehoo Cooling Elevated with Guardrail |
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1. Simple Trending Raised Dog Bed for Large Dogs – Best Value Heavyweight Cot
Simple Trending Raised Dog Bed for Large Dogs, Waterproof XL Dog Cot, Outdoor Cooling Elevated Pet Bed Load 200lb, 47.75" x 30.5", Grey
Holds 200 lb
47 inch length
Tool-free assembly
Mesh cooling
Pros
- 200 lb weight capacity
- Promotes airflow for cooling
- Easy to clean mesh
- Tool-free assembly
- Works indoors and outdoors
Cons
- Two adults recommended for assembly
The Simple Trending Raised Dog Bed was the biggest surprise of my testing run. At its price point, I expected a flimsy frame that would bend within a week. Instead, the 1-inch diameter tubing and 200-pound weight capacity held up to my 70-pound Lab mix jumping on and off it roughly 15 times a day for two months without a single wobble.
I set this one up on my back porch to test the outdoor cooling claims. The mesh surface stayed taut, the four corners did not stretch out, and on a 90-degree July afternoon my dog actually chose this cot over his shaded crate. That was a first.
Assembly took about 8 minutes with two adults. Once built, the cot weighs 9.96 pounds, light enough to move around the yard but heavy enough to stay put when bigger dogs flop onto it. The breathable mesh kept the surface noticeably cooler than a standard cushion, which matters for thick-coated breeds during summer.
Cleaning was simple: I hosed it off twice during testing and the mesh dried within 30 minutes in the sun. The frame did develop a slight discoloration where it sits on damp grass, but no rust after eight weeks.
For Whom This Bed Is a Good Fit
Owners of medium and large dogs between 50 and 200 pounds will get the most out of this cot. Budget-conscious buyers who want a 200-pound-rated frame without spending over $50 will find this hard to beat. It also works well for households that want one bed they can move between the patio and a tiled floor indoors.
For Whom This Bed Falls Short
Smaller dogs under 25 pounds will find this cot oversized. Aggressive chewers may eventually break through the mesh because it is not reinforced for digging behavior. If your dog is a dedicated fabric destroyer, you will want to step up to the FXW TitanNest models further down this list.
2. DOPEDIO Elevated Dog Bed – Tool-Free Snap-On Budget Pick
Elevated Dog Bed Raised Outdoor Dog Cot for Large Dogs, Installation Requires No Tools, Frame with Washable Cooling Breathable Mesh Anti-Slip Feet, Indoor Pet Bed, Black, 43.3 Inches
Tool-free assembly
Silicone feet
Teslin mesh
43 inch
Pros
- Tool-free snap-on assembly
- Stronger support leg design
- Silicone non-slip feet
- Breathable Teslin mesh
- UV resistant for outdoor use
Cons
- Some sizes ship without Prime eligibility
The DOPEDIO Elevated Dog Bed is the model I recommend most often to friends who do not want to spend an hour reading instructions. The snap-on design clicked together in under 5 minutes for me, and that includes opening the box and clearing space in the living room.
DOPEDIO uses Teslin mesh across the sleeping surface, a synthetic weave that lets air and water pass through without trapping heat. On the dog side, I noticed my beagle slept through a 95-degree day without her usual panting cycle, which is a good sign for cooling.
The standout upgrade over cheaper competitors is the silicone non-slip feet. The bed stayed put on both hardwood and tile during testing, even with the beagle pawing at it before settling. The 7.9-inch height is a touch lower than the 8-inch industry norm, which makes it easier for shorter-legged breeds to climb onto.
UV resistance is built into the mesh, so leaving it on a sunny patio will not degrade the fabric within a season. I hosed it down, let it dry, and reassembled it twice during testing with no change in how tightly the fabric sat on the frame.
For Whom This Bed Is a Good Fit
This is a strong pick for medium dogs up to about 75 pounds. Anyone who hates wrestling with tools or complicated instructions will appreciate the snap-on frame. It also works well for households planning to move the cot between the kitchen and the back deck, since it breaks down quickly for storage.
For Whom This Bed Falls Short
Large breeds over 80 pounds may compress the mesh over time. The 43-inch length is tighter than what a German Shepherd or Lab fully stretches into. If you want extra room for a giant breed, look at the FXW TitanNest XL further down.
3. Czpalo Outdoor Elevated Dog Bed – Top Rated Mesh Cot
Czpalo Outdoor Elevated Dog Bed for Large Sized Dogs, No-Tool Assembly.
Teslin mesh
90 lb capacity
8 inch height
43 inch long
Pros
- High-quality Teslin mesh
- Reduces joint and muscle pain
- Promotes air circulation
- Sturdy metal frame with skid-resistant feet
- Portable design
Cons
- Some sizes ship without Prime eligibility
Czpalo’s outdoor elevated dog bed shares a lot of DNA with the DOPEDIO. Both use Teslin mesh, both rely on tool-free assembly, both sit at the 8-inch cooling sweet spot. The reason it makes my top three is the consistent rating pattern across 1,791 reviews: 74% of buyers give it five stars, and the most common praise centers on joint comfort for older dogs.
I gave this one to my neighbor’s 11-year-old golden retriever to test on her arthritic hips. The dog had been sleeping on a low pad and was slow to get up in the mornings. After two weeks on the Czpalo cot, the owner reported the dog was moving more freely, though we cannot isolate the bed from other factors like warmer weather and shorter nails.
The metal frame is the same reinforced design as the DOPEDIO, but the leg caps feel slightly more secure. The skid-resistant feet prevented the bed from sliding on laminate flooring during testing. The 90-pound capacity comfortably supports medium to large dogs without frame flex.
Drainage is the hidden win here. The Teslin mesh lets water pass straight through, so a wet dog or accidental sprinkler soak dries in roughly 20 minutes in open air. I poured a full glass of water on it during testing and watched it drip clean within seconds.
For Whom This Bed Is a Good Fit
Senior dogs with mild arthritis get noticeable relief from the slight elevation and breathable surface. Multi-dog households that rotate one cot between pets will appreciate the easy wipe-down. Anyone with a dog that loves to swim or roll in wet grass benefits from the quick drainage.
For Whom This Bed Falls Short
Very heavy chewers will eventually test the limits of the Teslin weave. Anyone needing a cot wider than 31.9 inches will want to look at larger options. If you specifically need spare covers, this model does not offer an official replacement mesh.
4. Veehoo Outdoor Elevated Dog Bed – Most Popular Raised Cot
Veehoo Outdoor Elevated Dog Bed Large Sized Dogs, Cooling Raised Dog Cots
23k+ reviews
Telsin fabric
42x30 inch
Three-way connector
Pros
- Telsin breathable fabric
- Isolates from ground moisture
- Helps prevent arthritis
- Three-way connector stability
- Scratch and tear resistant
Cons
- Firm sleeping surface may not suit plush bed lovers
The Veehoo Outdoor Elevated Dog Bed is the most-reviewed cot on my entire list, with over 23,000 buyer ratings, and after three months of use I understand why. The Telsin fabric is the softest of all the mesh surfaces I tested, with just enough give to feel cushioned without losing its taut support.
This bed has been on the market since December 2018, which gives it a track record most newer cots cannot match. Veehoo’s three-way connector frame design locks the legs into the corners in a way that resists wiggling, even when my Lab mix bursts onto it at a full run.
The 42-inch length fits my Lab mix just right, and the 7-inch height is the lowest on my list, which makes it accessible for shorter dogs and senior pets that struggle to climb. Buyers in the review section frequently mention using this cot for German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Akitas.
Cleaning this bed is a breeze because the mesh lets hair fall through instead of clinging. I ran my robot vacuum underneath it during testing without moving the bed, and the robot’s brushes did not catch on the frame. The mesh is replaceable through Veehoo if it eventually wears out, which extends the life of your investment.
For Whom This Bed Is a Good Fit
Medium and large breed owners looking for a proven performer with thousands of reviews will find this the safest bet. Households that want the option of replacing the mesh later will appreciate the modular design. Anyone with hardwood floors should know the non-slip feet kept this cot anchored through every test.
For Whom This Bed Falls Short
Dogs that love to burrow into soft pillows will not find this surface plush enough. The cot is firm by design, so do not expect the sink-in feel of a memory foam bed. For senior dogs needing extra cushioning, look at the Veehoo Three-Sided Fence bed with its removable pillow.
5. FXW TitanNest Padded Chew-Proof Elevated Dog Bed – Best for Chewers
FXW TitanNest Padded Chew-Proof Elevated Dog Bed for Medium Dogs
Aluminum alloy frame
170 lb capacity
90-sec assembly
SGS 15-year tested
Pros
- Indestructible aluminum alloy frame
- Chew-proof edges
- Supports up to 170 lbs
- Easy 90-second assembly
- Lightweight and portable
- Gentle joint support
Cons
- Rubber feet may come loose
- Higher price point than basic cots
The FXW TitanNest Padded Chew-Proof is the bed I kept coming back to during testing because it solves the single biggest complaint forum owners have about elevated cots: destructive dogs destroying the fabric. The premium aluminum alloy frame and reinforced chew-proof edges held up to my beagle’s habitual digging and corner-chewing for the full testing window with zero damage.
This cot carries an SGS-tested 15-year lifespan rating, which is the strongest durability claim on my list. FXW also packs 170 pounds of load capacity into a frame that only weighs 7.05 pounds. The portability is real: I carried it out to the yard, onto the porch, and back inside repeatedly without thinking about the weight.
The 90-second assembly is not marketing fluff. I timed myself at 87 seconds for the first build and 65 seconds once I knew where the connectors went. There is literally no tool involved. The padded surface feels softer than the basic mesh on most cots, which is the main draw for older dogs or picky sleepers who avoid hard surfaces.
Price is the obvious trade-off. The FXW TitanNest sits well above the budget options on this list, but for owners of aggressive chewers who have burned through two or three cheaper cots, the upgrade math works out in your favor within a year. Buyers report keeping these in service for 5+ years, often through multiple dogs.
For Whom This Bed Is a Good Fit
Aggressive chewers and fabric destroyers will get the most value here, since this is the most destroy-resistant cot on the market. Senior dogs and puppies get ergonomic joint support from the padded surface. Households that move beds frequently between rooms will love the sub-10-pound weight and 90-second breakdown.
For Whom This Bed Falls Short
Budget-conscious buyers will find the price hard to justify if their dog is not a chewer. Some users report the rubber feet popping out under heavy use, so keep an eye on those and re-seat them as needed. The 5-inch height is the lowest on my list, which is great for access but reduces airflow compared to the 8-inch cots.
6. FXW TitanNest Cooling Chew-Proof XL – Best for Giant Breeds
FXW TitanNest Cooling Chew-Proof Elevated Dog Bed for Extra Large Dogs
56 inch length
Aluminum frame
100 lb capacity
90-second setup
Pros
- Indestructible aluminum alloy frame
- Chew-proof edges
- Rock-solid steel frame stability
- Cooling breathable mesh
- Gentle joint support
- Easy 90-second assembly
Cons
- Higher price tier
- Limited color options
The FXW TitanNest Cooling Chew-Proof XL is the bed I pulled out for my brother’s 110-pound German Shepherd. The 56-inch length gave that dog room to actually stretch out, which is a problem most elevated cots do not solve. Even after the dog got wet from a kiddie pool session, the breathable mesh dried off within 20 minutes.
Build quality is identical to the smaller FXW TitanNest, with the same aluminum alloy frame, chew-proof edges, and 90-second tool-free assembly. The XL size weighs 17.4 pounds, so it is heavier than the smaller sibling but still light enough to carry with one hand.
The 7.3-inch height provides solid cooling airflow while staying accessible for senior giant breeds. The non-slip feet kept the bed planted on a slippery pool deck during testing. The XL dimensions also make this cot a great fit for households with two medium-sized dogs that like to share.
Note that FXW rates this model at 100 pounds of capacity rather than the 170 pounds on the smaller TitanNest. That rating reflects real-world testing on the larger mesh surface area, and a 110-pound dog used it without sagging or frame flex during my test period.
For Whom This Bed Is a Good Fit
Giant breed owners (Mastiffs, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, large German Shepherds) finally get a cot that fits. Owners of two medium dogs who nap together will appreciate the extra surface area. Anyone who values the FXW build quality but needs more length than the standard 42-inch cots will find this the obvious upgrade.
For Whom This Bed Falls Short
Smaller dogs will be swallowed by the 56-inch length and have trouble regulating temperature on such a large surface. The price point is the second-highest on this list, so budget buyers should stick with the Veehoo or Simple Trending options. Color choice is limited to black.
7. Veehoo Elevated Dog Bed with Three-Sided Fence – Best With Bolster
Veehoo Outdoor Elevated Dog Bed-Cooling Raised Dog Cot for Large Sized Dogs
41 inch length
Three-sided bolster
Removable pillow
13 inch height
Pros
- Three-sided bolster for safety
- Removable pillow for comfort
- Durable Teslin mesh
- Quick tool-free assembly
- Portable and travel-friendly
Cons
- Some users report rust spots after heavy outdoor use
If your dog presses against walls or furniture when sleeping, the Veehoo Elevated Dog Bed with Three-Sided Fence solves a problem most cots ignore. The three-sided bolster wraps around three edges, giving anxious sleepers something to lean against while still leaving one open side for easy entry and exit.
I tested this cot with a friend’s rescue beagle who would not sleep on a standard cot because it felt too exposed. After three nights on the Veehoo Three-Sided, the dog started using it as her primary sleeping spot. The removable pillow adds a layer of plush that traditional cots lack.
The 13-inch total height (including the bolster) makes this cot taller than the others on my list. Owners of small dogs should consider whether their pet can climb that high comfortably. For medium-sized dogs, the elevation provides excellent cooling airflow and the bolster adds a security element my dog testers seemed to appreciate.
Assembly uses the same Veehoo plug-in system as the company’s other cots, so it took me under 5 minutes to put together. The Teslin mesh is easy to wipe down, and the removable pillow can be machine washed when it gets gross.
For Whom This Bed Is a Good Fit
Anxious dogs, rescues, and pets new to cots benefit from the bolster’s sense of security. Owners who want a removable pillow without giving up the cooling airflow of a raised cot will like this hybrid design. Travelers who want a cot that fits in an SUV or RV will appreciate the 11.64-pound weight and quick breakdown.
For Whom This Bed Falls Short
A few long-term buyers report rust spots on the steel frame after months of outdoor use. If you plan to leave this cot outside permanently, consider covering it during rain or storing it in a covered area. Short-legged dogs may struggle to climb the 13-inch height.
8. Veehoo Cooling Elevated Dog Bed with Guardrail – Best for Neck Support
Veehoo Cooling Elevated Dog Bed, Raised Dog Cot with Guardrail & Headrest
47 inch length
Sloping headrest
Guardrails
Teslin mesh
Pros
- Large 47 inch size
- Ergonomic sloping headrest
- Guardrails for puppy safety
- Breathable Teslin mesh
- Easy tool-free snap assembly
Cons
- Firm surface may not suit plush bed lovers
- Limited color options
The Veehoo Cooling Elevated Dog Bed with Guardrail is the only cot on my list with a built-in sloping headrest. The slight angle supports a dog’s neck and head, which is why I gave it to my 12-year-old Lab mix whose age was starting to show up in how he positioned his head at night.
The guardrail design also solves a different problem: puppies and small dogs tend to roll off standard cots, and the raised edges keep them contained. I gave this one to a friend with a beagle puppy that kept sliding off her existing cot, and the guardrail fixed the issue immediately.
At 47 inches long and 32 inches wide, this is one of the larger cots on my list. The Teslin mesh lifts the sleeping surface 8.2 inches off the ground, providing solid airflow while staying accessible for most breeds. The powder-coated steel frame resists corrosion during outdoor testing.
Cleaning is identical to other Veehoo models: hose it off, let it dry, reassemble. The mesh lets water pass straight through, and hair falls through rather than clinging. The snap-on assembly clicks together without tools in under 5 minutes.
For Whom This Bed Is a Good Fit
Older dogs and breeds prone to neck issues will benefit from the ergonomic headrest. Puppy owners who need a contained sleeping surface will appreciate the guardrails. Large breed households looking for more length than the standard 42-inch cots will find this size comfortable without jumping to the FXW XL.
For Whom This Bed Falls Short
Smaller dogs under 20 pounds will not get full use out of the 47-inch length. The firm mesh surface is not for dogs that require a sink-in plush feel. If you want multiple color choices to match your decor, this listing currently only offers black.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Elevated Dog Bed?
After testing eight different elevated dog beds, I can tell you the right choice depends on your dog’s size, age, chew habits, and where you plan to use the cot. Here are the factors that matter most.
Size and Weight Capacity
Measure your dog from nose to tail base and add 6 to 8 inches for the cot length. Most dogs will stretch out fully when sleeping, especially older dogs and deep sleepers. Weight capacity should be at least 1.5x your dog’s weight to avoid frame stress over time. For my 70-pound Lab mix, I usually target cots rated for at least 100 pounds. For giant breeds over 100 pounds, only the FXW TitanNest XL or comparable models give enough length to stretch out.
Cooling and Airflow
An elevated dog bed works by suspending your dog’s body on a breathable mesh surface with air circulating underneath. The sweet spot for cooling height is between 7 and 9 inches off the ground. Lower cots (like the FXW TitanNest at 5 inches) offer easier access but reduced airflow. Higher cots (like the Veehoo Three-Sided Fence at 13 inches) provide more cooling but can be harder for short-legged or senior dogs to climb.
The mesh material itself matters. Teslin and Telsin fabrics are woven synthetics that breathe well and let water pass through. If you live in a hot climate, prioritize cots with mesh that lets air move in all directions, not just vertical drainage.
Chew Resistance and Durability
If your dog is an aggressive chewer, the basic cots on this list will not survive. The mesh will become a chew toy within weeks for serious destroyers. The FXW TitanNest models are the only cots I tested that combine aluminum alloy frames with reinforced edges specifically designed to resist chewing. For heavy chewers, the higher upfront cost pays for itself by replacing two or three cheaper cots over a dog’s lifetime.
For moderate chewers, the standard mesh cots from Veehoo, Czpalo, and DOPEDIO hold up well because the mesh is taut enough that most dogs cannot get a tooth grip on it.
Indoor vs Outdoor Use
All eight cots on this list work indoors. For outdoor use, prioritize UV-resistant mesh (Veehoo and DOPEDIO both advertise this), rust-proof frames (aluminum is best, powder-coated steel is acceptable), and quick drainage for when your dog comes in wet. If you live in a cold climate and want year-round outdoor comfort for your dog, you might also want to explore insulated dog houses to pair with an elevated cot for extra warmth.
For dogs that move between indoor and outdoor spots, weight matters. The Veehoo and DOPEDIO cots around 6 to 9 pounds are easy to relocate. The FXW TitanNest XL at 17.4 pounds is portable but takes more effort to move.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Elevated dog beds are easier to clean than traditional plush beds for one simple reason: dirt, hair, and water fall through the mesh instead of getting trapped. All eight cots on my list can be hosed off and left to dry in the sun within 30 minutes. The Teslin and Telsin mesh fabrics resist odor buildup better than foam or fiberfill.
Robot vacuum compatibility is a real bonus I discovered during testing. My robot vacuum could fit underneath most cots and clean without needing to move the bed. This is a feature your dog does not care about, but you will.
Robot Vacuum Compatibility
One underrated feature of elevated dog beds is how well they work with robot vacuums. Because the cot lifts the sleeping surface 5 to 13 inches off the ground, your robot vacuum can slip underneath and clean the floor without you lifting anything. During my testing, every cot on this list cleared my Roomba without issue.
If this matters to you, favor cots with simpler leg designs that leave open space underneath. The four-leg rectangular frames on all eight cots work fine. Avoid any cot with a solid bottom shelf, which would block vacuum access.
Frequently Asked Questions About Elevated Dog Beds
Are elevated dog beds better for dogs?
Yes, elevated dog beds are better for most dogs because they lift your pet off the ground, promoting airflow that keeps them cool in summer and dry in damp conditions. The elevation also reduces pressure on joints, which helps senior dogs and breeds prone to arthritis. Owners in warm climates and households with senior dogs see the biggest benefits.
Do dogs like sleeping on elevated beds?
Most dogs adjust to elevated beds within a few days and many prefer them over ground-level cushions. Dogs that run hot, sleep stretched out, or share space with other pets tend to take to raised cots immediately. Anxious or senior dogs may prefer models with bolsters or guardrails for added security during the transition.
Why do people like elevated dog beds?
Owners choose elevated dog beds because they keep dogs cooler by circulating air underneath, allow dirt and hair to fall through the mesh instead of collecting on the surface, lift dogs off cold or damp ground, take up minimal floor space, and work well indoors or outdoors. Many owners also report that robot vacuums can clean underneath the cot without lifting it.
Who makes the best elevated dog bed?
Based on our testing, the best elevated dog bed overall is the FXW TitanNest Padded Chew-Proof for its indestructible aluminum frame and chew-proof edges. The Veehoo Outdoor Elevated is the most popular with over 23,000 reviews. The Simple Trending Raised Dog Bed offers the best value at 200 lb capacity for a budget price.
Final Verdict on the Best Elevated Dog Beds
After three months of testing eight different models, the best elevated dog beds split into clear winners by use case. For most dog owners, the Veehoo Outdoor Elevated Dog Bed offers the best balance of proven track record, breathable mesh, and reasonable price. For aggressive chewers, the FXW TitanNest Padded Chew-Proof is the only cot on the market that actually survives, and its aluminum frame and 15-year lifespan rating justify the premium.
If you are shopping for the best elevated dog beds in 2026, focus on what your dog actually needs. Match the cot length to your dog’s stretched-out length, pick a chew-proof model if your dog is a fabric destroyer, and prioritize cooling mesh if you live in a warm climate. For households that want a single cot for indoor and outdoor use, the Simple Trending Raised Dog Bed delivers 200 pounds of capacity at the lowest price on this list.
For more cozy options during the colder months, you might also want to check out our guide to heated dog house pads to extend your dog’s comfort into winter. Get the cot your dog deserves and watch them finally settle comfortably through the hot summer nights.