Go to the dogs
idiomatic expression
To become worse in quality or character.
The park has really gone to the dogs since they stopped funding its maintenance.
Often appears as...
- business has gone to the dogs
- town has gone to the dogs
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
idiomatic expression
To fail or deteriorate.
Ever since she took over, the company has gone to the dogs.
Often appears as...
- company has gone to the dogs
- country has gone to the dogs
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
idiomatic expression
To become worse in quality or character.
The park has really gone to the dogs since they stopped funding its maintenance.
Often appears as...
- business has gone to the dogs
- town has gone to the dogs
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
idiomatic expression
To fail or deteriorate.
Ever since she took over, the company has gone to the dogs.
Often appears as...
- company has gone to the dogs
- country has gone to the dogs
Usage tips
Disapproving
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
The phrase suggests a decline with a sense of regret or disappointment.
The local library has gone to the dogs, it's quite sad.
Pro Tip 2/3Not for People
Typically used for places or institutions, rather than individuals.
It's a shame how the old theater has gone to the dogs.
Pro Tip 3/3Informal Usage
It's commonly used in casual conversations, not in formal writing.
Their customer service has really gone to the dogs lately.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
The phrase suggests a decline with a sense of regret or disappointment.
The local library has gone to the dogs, it's quite sad.
Pro Tip 2/3Not for People
Typically used for places or institutions, rather than individuals.
It's a shame how the old theater has gone to the dogs.
Pro Tip 3/3Informal Usage
It's commonly used in casual conversations, not in formal writing.
Their customer service has really gone to the dogs lately.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Connotation
The phrase suggests a decline with a sense of regret or disappointment.
The local library has gone to the dogs, it's quite sad.
Pro Tip 2/3Not for People
Typically used for places or institutions, rather than individuals.
It's a shame how the old theater has gone to the dogs.
Pro Tip 3/3Informal Usage
It's commonly used in casual conversations, not in formal writing.
Their customer service has really gone to the dogs lately.
Never forget "Go to the dogs"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension