Seeding Bare Dirt - Help a Novice

Finished new construction earlier this year. Had sod laid in the front yard but didn't want to get it laid in backyard due to size and 2 dogs (who both enjoy digging). Now I have a dirt back yard and need to do something to get some grass growing that can withstand the dogs. I was thinking about seeding, but I know nothing about the what, when or how.

Someone at work suggested perennial rye because it can go fast during fall and should hold up well with the dogs.

Backyard is ~5,000 sq. Ft. Looks like I would need 50lb bag and a spreader. Also looks like I'll need to put fertilizer down first?

I have ~10 wheel barrels of dirt left over from contractor grading that I was going to throw in the back yard first to try to level some low spots. Any advice on how to hand level that?

Any other grass types I should consider?

Should I minimize dogs access to backyard once it's been seeded?

Have no clue what I'm doing, but going to try and get started on it this weekend.