Dagba Dondukov was born on 15 February 1915 in the village of Edermyk, Kizhinginsky District, Buryatia. From 1926, he studied at a school in Zun-Shanaa, in Edermeg. Participated in non-professional creative performances. In 1933, following the advice and invitation of his famous fellow countryman Choyzhi-Nima Geninov, he joined the newly opened Buryat Drama Theatre. He graduated from drama school in 1938, while continuing to perform in theatre. A performer of characteristic and comedic roles, an actor of original talent, the characters he created were marked by a vivid national character.

Dondukov took part in the Great Patriotic War. In 1939, he fought at Khalkhin Gol. From 1941 to 1942, he served in the 51st Rifle Regiment of the 26th Guards Motor Rifle East Siberian Gorodok Red Banner Order of Suvorov Division. He fought in the Battle of Moscow. After sustaining serious wounds in 1942, Dondukov was hospitalized, returning to his homeland following treatment. During his nearly 50 years of work in theatre, he played hundreds of roles. He participated in the First (1940) and Second (1959) Decades of Buryat Literature in Moscow. In 1965, 1972, and 1978, he went on tour to the Mongolian People's Republic.