Teeth of the Dog Golf Course

Teeth of the Dog is the undisputed king of Caribbean golf — the #1 ranked course in the Caribbean and Latin America for decades, and regularly included in lists of the world's top 50 courses. Designed by the legendary Pete Dye and opened in 1971 at the Casa de Campo resort in La Romana, it is a masterpiece that seamlessly integrates the dramatic Caribbean coastline into its design.

The name comes from the jagged coral rock formations (called "dientes del perro" by locals) that line the coastline. Seven of the 18 holes play directly along the Caribbean Sea, with waves crashing against coral outcrops just feet from the fairways and greens. The combination of Pete Dye's challenging design philosophy and the stunning oceanfront setting creates an unforgettable golfing experience.

Teeth of the Dog is renowned for its dramatic oceanfront holes:

• Hole 5 (Par 3): A stunning 155-yard shot over the Caribbean Sea to a green perched on a coral promontory — arguably the most photographed hole in the Caribbean
• Hole 7 (Par 3): Another ocean-side par 3 that requires a carry over jagged coral rocks with the sea as a backdrop
• Holes 15-17: A spectacular three-hole stretch along the coast, each offering dramatic ocean views and challenging winds
• Coral features: Pete Dye incorporated the natural coral rock ("teeth of the dog") into bunkers, walls, and hazards throughout the course
• Caddie experience: Local caddies are legendary — their knowledge of wind, breaks, and course strategy is invaluable
• Clubhouse: A beautiful open-air facility with views over the course and ocean, perfect for post-round reflection

Important details for planning your round:

• Access: Priority is given to Casa de Campo resort guests. Non-guests can play but at a higher rate and subject to availability.
• Green fees: $250-395 USD for resort guests (varies by season). Non-guest rates are higher. Includes golf cart.
• Caddies: Mandatory caddie fee applies (~$35 USD). Tips of $25-50 USD are customary.
• Dress code: Proper golf attire required (collared shirt, golf shoes, no jeans).
• Other courses: Casa de Campo has two additional Pete Dye courses: Dye Fore (27 holes, clifftop) and The Links (inland links-style).

Tip: Consider a multi-day golf package at Casa de Campo to play all three Pete Dye courses.

Pete Dye first visited the Dominican Republic in 1969 when he was commissioned to build a course at the new Casa de Campo resort. Working with local laborers and using the natural coral landscape as his canvas, Dye created something unprecedented — a course that didn't just sit near the ocean but played in and among it.

The course opened in 1971 and quickly gained recognition as one of the finest designs in the world. It has hosted numerous professional and amateur events and has been the home course for some of the most important golf moments in the Caribbean. Pete Dye himself considered Teeth of the Dog his greatest creation, calling it "the best thing I've ever done."