The Dominican Republic’s legendary golf course gets a makeover
The legendary Teeth of the Dog, located at Casa de Campo Resort, Dominican Republic, will undergo a comprehensive renovation in 2025 after more than 50 years of history. The course will close on January 20, 2025 and reopen before Christmas of the same year.
Pete Dye’s legacy at Teeth of the Dog
Pete Dye, the celebrated golf course architect, designed this course in his signature style: moving greens, challenging bunkers, severe mounding and strategic water hazards.
Dye used to say that golf is not a fair game, so he designed courses that challenge golfers’ minds before each shot. His masterpiece at Casa de Campo is a favorite of Miguel Angel Jimenez, who chooses it for his training in the Dominican Republic.
The Fantastic 7: Hole by Hole by the Sea
Dye claimed that he only created 11 holes, as the other 7 were designed by nature. These are the mythical holes 5 to 8 and 15 to 17, which border the coral formations and the Caribbean Sea, offering breathtaking views and unique challenges.
Renovations at Teeth of the Dog
Robert Birtel, the resort’s director of golf, explained the changes that will be implemented in the renovation:
- Improvement of fairways and bunkers: Paspalum grass will be installed on a sand base on fairways and tees.
- Renovation of greens: Although they are in excellent condition, the grass will be changed to ensure their durability.
- Redesign of sand traps: Some bunkers will be strategically relocated.
- Drainage optimization: The water drainage system will be improved.
Will Pete Dye’s original design be altered?
No, the original design will remain intact, except for minor adjustments:
- Hole 14: The bunkers on the left will be relocated to have more influence on the game.
- Hole 9: Professionals can easily overfly the bunkers, so they will be delayed.
Alternatives for golfers during the renovation
While Teeth of the Dog is closed, visitors can enjoy two world-class golf courses within Casa de Campo:
Dye Fore: 27 holes with spectacular views
This course, also designed by Pete Dye, has three courses: Marina, Chavón and Lagos.
- Marina: It runs along the Chavón River and offers breathtaking views of the Caribbean.
- Chavón: Located on cliffs of more than 300 feet, with challenges for all levels.
- Lakes: A course with abundant water, where the greens are surrounded by lakes and natural obstacles.
The Links: A hidden treasure in Casa de Campo
The Links is the least known course of the resort, but no less spectacular. Its design with impeccable fairways and undulating greens demonstrates Pete Dye’s mastery.
Casa de Campo Resort: A paradise in La Romana
Located on the southeast coast of the Dominican Republic, Casa de Campo Resort extends over 3,000 hectares and offers a unique combination of luxury and nature.
First class lodging
The resort has multiple lodging options, from luxury hotels to private villas with exclusive services:
- Private pool and large terraces.
- Butler, waitress and gardener.
- Personal chef service (optional).
Sports and activities
Casa de Campo offers a wide variety of activities for its visitors:
- Golf: Four world-class courses.
- Exclusive gym and spa.
- Marina and yacht club.
- Private beach and water sports.
Teeth of the Dog: An Iconic Field
Teeth of the Dog is not only the best golf course in the Dominican Republic, but also one of the most challenging in the world. Its combination of strategic design, unforgettable scenery and technical challenges make it a must-visit destination for any golfer.
Have you played Teeth of the Dog? Share your experience and tell us what you think of this legendary course.
Author: Antonio Sanchez
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