Dog-resistant sod....

[Homebrew]

I'm in dire need of some suggestions for rescuing my backyard. I've got three retired racing greyhounds who have destroyed the existing St. Augustine. The area is largely shaded (less than 50% sun during the day), long and narrow. The dogs live indoors, and probably spend less than 5 minutes a day outside. That said, they can hit 45 MPH in just a few strides and do enjoy a good game of doggy grab ***. Suggestions?

 

[accuratehorn]

Astroturf?

 

[l00p]

That is so 1970s. Try Field Turf.

 

[brntorng]

St. Augustine is still the best choice for shade. Check around, though, because some new varieties may offer better traffic tolerance. Proper water, fertilizer, mowing, and maintenance (aeration, organic top dressing, etc.) will help any grass tolerate traffic better, but that's a tall order for any grass in the shade. If it's possible to put in something like decomposed granite in the high traffic areas you may want to consider that.

If the worn patches are in an area with more sunlight, you could consider overseeding with bermuda and let it fight it out with the St Augustine since it has better traffic tolerance. It requires nearly full sun, though.