Mark McVeigh’s side came out with a plan to dominate but ultimately were unable to close out the win even after an impressive third quarter where they booted five of their eight goals.
Stephen Coniglio (31 disposals, eight marks) and Josh Kelly (35 disposals, 12 marks, 600 metres gained) stood out for the Giants, while Harry Himmelberg’s sensational move to defence continued with a 30-disposal, 12-mark outing.
However, they were unable to turn their possession dominance into scores against the Bulldogs’ well-oiled defensive unit, who made the Giants pay up the other end to open up an 11-point quarter time lead.
In the second term, the Giants managed to eek ahead off the back of a lovely goal from Jake Riccardi but the Bulldogs responded with four points.
The contest roared to life in an enthralling third quarter.
The Giants hit first, booting two goals to take the lead, before the Bulldogs hit back with four, headlined by a quickfire double to open up a 15-point lead.
In the end, the Bulldogs slotted the all-important winner to keep their hopes of a fourth-straight finals appearance alive.
The Giants next take on Freemantle on Saturday at Manuka Oval in the ACT from 1.45pm.
Giants fight to death but ultimately topple
THE GWS Giants fought until the end and nearly derailed the Western Bulldogs whose dreams of finals action are still alive after narrowly securing the 9.8 (62) to 8.9 (57) win on Saturday.
The Bulldogs were tested at every turn by a Giants side determined to play spoiler against their rivals.