How to solo defeat Dragonite in Pokemon GO 3-star raids

Dragonite is one of the most iconic and challenging 3-star raid bosses in Pokemon GO. Its impressive stats and diverse moveset can make it a tough opponent for solo players. However, with proper preparation and the right counters, you can take down this powerful Dragon/Flying-type critter and add it to your collection.

As an additional opportunity, if you’re participating in Fashion Week (January 10-19, 2025), you will find this Gen One Pseudo-Legendary in 3-star raids.

Note: Parts of this article are subjective and reflect the writer's opinion.

Check out the current Pokemon GO raid bosses that you can encounter in-game

How to defeat Dragonite in Pokemon GO Raids solo

Dragonite, as seen in the anime (Image via The Pokemon Company)

Type: Dragon/Flying

Raid Boss CP: 24,343

Attack: 263

Defense: 198

Stamina: 3,600 HP

Fast Attacks: Dragon Breath, Steel Wing, Dragon Tail

Charged Attacks: Hyper Beam, Dragon Pulse, Dragon Claw, Hurricane, Outrage, Draco Meteor, Superpower

Dragonite has several resistances, including:

63% Resistance: Bug, Fighting, Fire, Water
39% Resistance: Grass, Ground

However, it’s vulnerable to:

160% Damage: Dragon, Fairy, Rock
256% Damage: Ice

Note: The recommended solo-capable counter Pokemon are based on simulated game data, and results may vary. For best results, it's advised for the recommended Pokemon below to have the highest possible IV stats and be powered up to the highest possible CP to successfully clear the raid solo.

Also read: Pokemon GO Dragonite raid guide: Weaknesses and best counters

Best Pokemon GO counters for Dragonite without any weather boosts in play

Best counters for Dragonite raids (Image via The Pokemon Company)

When weather conditions aren’t in your favor, focusing on high-DPS Pokemon with Ice-type moves is key. Dragonite’s quad weakness to Ice makes these counters particularly effective:

Shadow Mamoswine: With Powder Snow as its fast attack and Avalanche as its charged move, Shadow Mamoswine delivers consistent and devastating Ice-type damage.
Mega Rayquaza: Using Dragon Tail and Breaking Swipe, Mega Rayquaza leverages Dragonite’s Dragon weakness while also dealing significant damage.
Shadow Weavile: Ice Shard and Triple Axel make Shadow Weavile a strong Ice-type attacker with high damage output.
Mega/Shadow Gardevoir: Charm and Triple Axel provide a combination of Fairy and Ice moves that exploit Dragonite’s vulnerabilities.
Shadow Mewtwo: With Psycho Cut and Ice Beam, Shadow Mewtwo combines versatility and sheer power, making it a top-tier counter.

These Pokemon not only deal high damage but also offer versatility, allowing you to adjust your strategy as the battle progresses.

Also read: 5 best costumed Pokemon to get during GO Fashion Week 2025

Additional solo counters for Dragonite in Pokemon GO raids based on weather boosts

Weather conditions can provide an edge by powering up specific moves. Here are additional counters to consider based on weather boosts:

Mega/Shadow Abomasnow: Powder Snow and Weather Ball
Galarian Darmanitan: Ice Fang and Avalanche
Baxcalibur: Ice Fang and Avalanche
Mega Glalie: Frost Breath and Avalanche
Shadow Articuno: Frost Breath and Triple Axel
Glaceon: Frost Breath and Avalanche
Kyurem: Dragon Breath and Glaciate
Cetitan: Ice Shard and Avalanche
Mega/Shadow Garchomp: Dragon Tail and Outrage
Shadow Alola Ninetales: Powder Snow and Weather Ball
Shadow Cloyster: Frost Breath and Avalanche
Aurorus: Frost Breath and Weather Ball
Shadow Porygon-Z: Hidden Power (Ice) and Blizzard
Shadow Walrein: Frost Breath and Icicle Spear

Also read: GO Fashion Week 2025 preparation guide

Tips for soloing Dragonite

Exploit the Ice weakness: Dragonite’s quad weakness to Ice moves is its biggest counter. Build your team with Ice-type counters as the primary attackers.
Dodge strategically: Charged moves like Draco Meteor and Hyper Beam can deal significant damage. Dodging these attacks can help your team survive longer.
Optimize your lineup: Include high-level Pokemon with the recommended movesets. Prioritize Shadows and Megas for maximum damage.
Prepare for tough movesets: Dragonite’s Dragon Breath and Outrage combo can be punishing. Be ready with backup counters if your team starts falling quickly.
Leverage weather boosts: Ice-type moves are even more effective during snowy weather, while cloudy conditions can boost Fairy-type counters like Gardevoir.

Also read: Is the GO Fashion Week 2025 Paid Timed Research ticket worth it?

With the right preparation, soloing Dragonite in a 3-star raid is achievable. Focus on Ice-type counters and time your dodges to make the most of your battle.

Whether you’re tackling this challenge during Fashion Week or another time, Dragonite’s defeat will be a worthy addition to your achievements in Pokemon GO.

Check out our other Pokemon GO guides:

🚨 Calculate the Pokemon type effectiveness to win battles with our newly launched Pokemon GO Type Calculator 🚨

Edited by Rachel Syiemlieh