Catching a new Pokémon is an exciting adventure, and when that new creature is Dondozo—the “Big Catfish Pokémon”—you’ll want to know every detail to reel it in successfully. This guide walks you through the best steps to catch Dondozo in Pokémon GO, whether you aim to grab the regular version or hunt for that elusive Shiny form. Clear, easy to follow, and packed full of helpful tips, this overview ensures you’re fully prepared.
Dondozo is a pure Water-type Pokémon making its explosive debut in Pokémon GO during the Sunkissed Shores event. Known for its bulky build and high stamina, Dondozo brings a fresh challenge to raid battles and a new opportunity to add a powerful Water-type to your collection. Since its shiny version is available from the start, trainers across the globe are especially keen to add a sparkling Dondozo to their Pokédex.
Event Timing: Don’t Miss Your Window
Dondozo appears during a specific, limited-time event titled Sunkissed Shores. This event runs from August 25 through August 31, and during that span, Dondozo is featured as a boss in three-star raids. Outside of this window, it’s still possible to encounter Dondozo in raids—but the event boosts your odds dramatically.
How to Catch Dondozo: Step-by-Step
- Watch for Three-Star Raid Signs
- Visit Gyms to spot where raid battles are happening. Dondozo will appear when the Sunkissed Shores event is live.
- Prepare Your Counters (Water’s Weaknesses)
- Dondozo is a Water-type, making it vulnerable to Electric- and Grass-type moves.
- Optimal counters include strong, high-level Pokémon such as:
- Sceptile (especially Mega or Shadow),
- Raikou (particularly Shadow Raikou),
- Electivire, Thundurus, and others with Electric or Grass moves.
- Mega and Shadow variants of these Pokémon can tip the battle in your favor.
- Team Up (or Go Solo if You’re Strong)
- Three-star raids are designed for small groups. With the right lineup, 2 to 3 seasoned trainers can often take down Dondozo.
- Solo attempts are feasible if your Pokémon are leveled up and carry the best counters. Otherwise, find friends or local trainers to join you for a team effort.
- Shiny Chance Is Live from Day One
- The shiny form of Dondozo has been unlocked right from the event’s start. Every successful raid offers a chance to capture it.
- Shiny odds are not boosted during the event, meaning each encounter carries standard probability—so perseverance (and multiple raid attempts) can pay off.
- Timed Research Bonus (Optional Purchase, More Encounters)
- For some extra incentive, a paid Timed Research ticket is available during the event, offering additional encounters and bonuses. If grabbing more opportunities to catch Dondozo or earn XP and Stardust appeals to you, this is a worthwhile option.
Dondozo’s high defense and stamina mean that it can outlast unprepared trainers. Picking the right attackers—those with strong DPS (damage per second) and type effectiveness—is crucial. Fast moves like Thunder Shock, Fury Cutter, Razor Leaf, and charge moves such as Wild Charge or Frenzy Plant can bring down Dondozo more quickly than generic options.
