In the sentence, what does go to the dogs mean?
If people do not mend their ways, they are sure to go to the dogs.
Note
to be ruined is correct because go to the dogs means to become ruined, spoiled, or much worse in condition.
This idiom or phrase is useful because it helps students understand the intended meaning beyond the individual words.
Examples: The old building went to the dogs after years of neglect. Without honest leadership, the organization may go to the dogs.
The sentence warns that bad behavior can lead to ruin, so the other meanings do not fit.
