The Canberra Raiders fell 14-10 to the Bulldogs at GIO Stadium on Thursday night in heavy rain.
The game also marked Ricky Stuart's 300th match coaching the Raiders.
Canberra sought a response after losing to the Warriors while the Bulldogs were coming off a bye.
Matt Burton kicked off the contest and Josh Papalii took the first touch in testing conditions.
Winger Savelio Tamale crossed early and Ethan Sanders converted to put the Raiders ahead 6-0.
Canterbury responded when Crichton offloaded to Connor Tracey for a try, and later levelled with a penalty goal.
Papalii was sin-binned for a high tackle but Kaeo Weekes made a try-saving stop as Canberra defended resolutely.
The Bulldogs led 8-6 at halftime after another penalty, and the rain-soaked match stayed tight throughout.
Despite brave defence, the Raiders could not recover and the Bulldogs held on for the 14-10 win.