Lawn Care Bleg

I've got this spot in my back yard that is just dead. I've tried heavier watering and it doesn't come back. I thought it was a broken sprinkler head but checking confirms that it is getting some coverage. I've tried overseeding and it doesn't come back. I'm afraid to put down the "grass repair kit" sold at Lowe's because I'm afraid the dogs will eat it. One of them recently wanted to eat hot coals, after all. Seeded fertilizer turf would be a delicacy by comparison.

So anyone have any ideas?