Dragonair is technically a pre-evolution of Dragonite, but it holds its own in formats where Eviolite is allowed. Only weak to Ice, Dragon, and Fairy. Known as the Dragon Pokemon. Flexible enough to run physical or special sets.
An unusually even spread gives Dragonair flexibility. Attack barely edges ahead. But HP isn't far off. Tough to catch and follows a slow 1.25M XP grind. Yields 2 Attack EVs.
If its body takes on an aura, the weather changes instantly. It is said to live in seas and lakes.
Dragonair Weakness
AvgDragonair is weak to Ice, Dragon, and Fairy-type moves. 4 resistances help offset the weaknesses. Standard number of weaknesses for the Dragon typing.
Partway through Dratini's chain. Dragonair still has another evolution ahead before reaching Dragonite. For breeding, takes forever to hatch with no compatible partners via two egg groups. HP has grown the most so far (+20), but there's still another 180 stats to gain in the final evolution.
How to Evolve
Breed with Dragonair to get Dratini eggs easily from the Dragon and Water1 egg groups. Notable egg moves include Aqua Jet, Dragon Breath, Dragon Dance and 5 more.
For an attacker, Dragonair wants a spread EV build EVs and Expert Belt. The Hardy nature tilts toward balanced duty, and Shedskin contributes without taking a move slot.
Best Build
Best Dragonair Moveset
- Draco Meteor
- Dragon Pulse
- Dragon Tail
- Protect
Egg moves make a real difference. Dragonair gets Aqua Jet and Dragon Breath exclusively through breeding, filling gaps that TMs and level-up can't touch. Normal and Water coverage and more rounds out the picture alongside Draco Meteor and Outrage.
Level-Up Moves
TM Moves
Egg Moves
Tutor Moves
You'll want early-game access before hunting Dragonair. Moderate rates across 2 encounter spots means the location matters. Sort by Best below and target the top-rated area first.
Where To Catch Dragonair in Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl
The path to Dragonair starts with Dratini at Lv. 15-63 via fishing and walking encounters. 2 catchable stages total, with locations listed for each one below.
Step 1Catch DratiniEASYMt. Coronet - 4FBrilliant DiamondSuper RodLv.15-2030%EarlyCaveEASYMt. Coronet - 4FShining PearlSuper RodLv.15-2030%EarlyCaveFountainspring CaveBrilliant DiamondGrassLv.58-63PostCavePost-gameFountainspring CaveShining PearlGrassLv.58-63PostCavePost-game
Step 2Dragonair ✓EXTREMEMt. Coronet - 4FShining PearlSuper RodLv.15-405%EarlyCaveEXTREMEMt. Coronet - 4FBrilliant DiamondSuper RodLv.15-405%EarlyCaveor evolve from Dratini (Step 1)
Dragonair is meant to evolve into Dragonite. At 420 BST, the stats aren't there for competitive play yet. Pre-evolution Pokemon rarely hold up against fully evolved threats.
Shed Skin is the go-to ability for Dragonair. It has a 33% chance of curing any major status ailment after each turn. Its hidden ability Marvel Scale can work in specific setups.
Base 70 Speed is workable — faster than some, slower than many. On offense, Dragonair is leaning toward the physical side (base 84 Attack).
Dragonair appears in 21 games, including Yellow, Red & Blue, and Gold & Silver.
One of the original 151, Dragonair has appeared in 21 games — nearly every mainline game. From Red & Blue through the latest titles, it's rarely been left out of a regional Pokedex.
- Gen IY
Yellow - Gen IRBDebut
Red & Blue - Gen IIGS
Gold & Silver - Gen IIC
Crystal - Gen IIIRS
Ruby & Sapphire - Gen IIIFRLG
FireRed & LeafGreen - Gen IIIE
Emerald - Gen IVPt
Platinum - Gen IVHGSS
HeartGold & SoulSilver - Gen IVDP
Diamond & Pearl - Gen VBW
Black & White - Gen VB2W2
Black 2 & White 2 - Gen VIXY
X & Y - Gen VIORAS
Omega Ruby & Alpha Sapphire - Gen VIIUSUM
Ultra Sun & Ultra Moon - Gen VIISM
Sun & Moon - Gen VIILGPE
Let's Go Pikachu & Eevee - Gen VIIISwSh
Sword & Shield - Gen VIIIPLA
Legends: Arceus - Gen VIIIBDSP
Brilliant Diamond & Shining Pearl - Gen IXSV
Scarlet & Violet - Gen IXLZA
Legends: Z-A