Teeth of the Dog Restoration Elevates Golf at Casa de Campo
Recognized for decades as the #1 golf course in the Caribbean, Teeth of the Dog recently underwent an extensive restoration led by Jerry Pate and Jerry Pate Design. The project included a complete re-grassing of the course with Dynasty Paspalum, restoration of the original green sizes envisioned by Pete Dye, reshaped bunkers, upgraded fairways, and improvements designed to preserve the legendary seaside layout for future generations.
In an exclusive interview with us, Robert Birtel, Director of Golf at Casa de Campo Resort & Villas shared his thoughts on the restoration process and what continues to make Casa de Campo one of the world’s premier golf destinations.
According to Birtel, the main goal behind the restoration was never to redesign the course, but to preserve Pete Dye’s original masterpiece while enhancing the playing experience through modern construction techniques and improved course conditions.
“The goal was to protect Pete Dye’s original vision while ensuring the course remains playable and sustainable for decades to come,” Birtel explained.
Golfers returning to Teeth of the Dog will immediately notice the improved playing surfaces, cleaner lines throughout the course, and a stronger connection between the layout and the Caribbean coastline. The restoration also returned several greens and strategic features to their original dimensions, reinforcing the bold angles and defensive elements that define the course.
Birtel also highlighted the diversity of golf experiences available at Casa de Campo through Dye Fore and The Links, both designed by Pete Dye and offering dramatically different styles of play.
When asked about his favorite hole on Teeth of the Dog, Birtel selected the iconic par-3 fifth hole, located directly alongside the Caribbean Sea and considered one of the course’s most memorable oceanfront challenges.
Beyond the golf itself, Birtel emphasized that what truly sets Casa de Campo apart is the experience created by the people behind the resort.
“Golfers come here not only to play our classic Pete Dye courses,” he shared, “but to feel part of something truly special at one of the world’s greatest and friendliest golf destinations.”
Read the full interview in our magazine, with physical copies available throughout Casa de Campo, or view the digital version here https://casadecampore.com/digital-magazines
