Question
Our front lawn is predominantly clay and the grass regardless never seems to get very thick.  Compound that with our very active 2 yr old yellow lab and her friends running around and tearing it up and the low spots where water and ice/snow accumulate and our lawn is the worst in the neighborhood.  I have tried to overseed and water but the grass never takes.  What should I do to fix these problems.  We live in Delaware.

Answer
Hi Lance, There isn't a grass that will live under the constant traffic of a large dog.  Along fencerows, shrubs or paths where he runs frequently, consider groundcloth fabric covered with the mulch of your choice.  Away from these areas, you should be able to get grass to grow.  You will have to till the compacted soil for grass to survive.  I'd start collecting leaves to cover the area and then till it to a depth of 8".  Check your pH, it needs to be 6.5. I'd till it just prior to sowing seed but when depends on the type seed you sow.  Go to your local independent garden center.  They'll sell you the correct type of grass for your area.  YOu will need to keep the dog off the area until the grass gets extablished, usually 4-6 weeks.  Jim