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Whether or not grass will fill in bare spots itself depends on the type of grass you have. For example, grass with rhizomes (e.g., Bermuda grass) and stolons (e.g., Saint Augustine grass) will naturally fill in bald spots as it spreads laterally. However, clump-forming grasses will not spread. 

Yes, in most cases, grass will return after your dog urinates on it. But without preventative measures, there’s always a chance your dog will pee on the grass again, leading to brown patches come summer. This aside, even if your grass is dead in patches, simply reseeding the dead spots should help restore your lawn. 

If you choose not to reseed your lawn, unaffected grass surrounding the dead patches will spread over any dead spots. But be prepared for this option to take longer—you likely won’t be able to grow grass fast.

Choosing between sod and seed depends on your budget, timeline, and maintenance preferences.

Sod:

• Pros: Provides an instant, lush lawn and immediate curb appeal. It's more resistant to weeds and erosion, can be installed any time during the growing season, and offers a consistent appearance.

• Cons: Has a higher upfront cost, typically $0.90 to $1.80 more per square foot than seed. It offers fewer grass varieties and must be installed immediately upon delivery.

Seed:

• Pros: Less expensive upfront, making it a budget-friendly option. It offers a wider variety of grass types and is easier for a DIY installation.

• Cons: Takes much longer to establish, potentially up to two years for a full lawn. It requires more maintenance, including regular weed control, and is more difficult to cultivate.

Ultimately, if you want a beautiful lawn quickly and have a larger budget, sod is an excellent choice. If you are patient, want to save money, and prefer a wider selection of grass types, seeding may be the better option.

Bermuda grass is one of the fastest-growing warm-season grasses because of its system of aboveground stems (stolons) and below-ground stems (rhizomes). Adequate water and sunlight in a warmer climate will nurture the spread of Bermuda grass. This rapid growth rate makes Bermuda grass resilient and effective at choking weeds. However, this aggressive advancement can also make the grass difficult to contain and control.