The old saying of “If it ain’t broken, don’t fix it” will haunt the Bulldogs throughout the summer.

In a bizarre campaign, the Bulldogs led the ladder for 11 weeks mid-season – but then decided to tinker with their squad.

In one of the biggest stories of the year, the Bulldogs signed Lachlan Galvin from the Tigers, sending a clear message to Toby Sexton, the halfback who got them to the top of the ladder, that they didn’t think he was the answer.

READ MORE: ‘Outrageous’ Brownlow shock as Suns star wins

READ MORE: Brownlow count rocked by dumbfounding vote snub

READ MORE: Storm star on track to return for blockbuster prelim final

Galvin took over the number seven jumper, took time to adapt to the pressure and new systems, and the Bulldogs began to slide down the ladder.

To add to their woes, hooker Reed Mahoney, one of the highest paid players on their roster, lost his spot to youngster Bailey Hayward – and clearly wasn’t happy.

The Dogs limped into the finals, losing five of their last six games – their sole win coming over a Panthers team resting a dozen top liners.

Lachlan Galvin and his Bulldogs teammates react to their semi final loss to the Panthers.

Lachlan Galvin and his Bulldogs teammates react to their semi final loss to the Panthers. Getty

A season that promised so much ended in bitter disappointment, with a now full strength Panthers side thumping the Dogs 46-26 on Sunday before a massive crowd at Accor Stadium.

Would the Dogs have fared better had Sexton and Mahoney kept their spots?

We will never know – but the Galvin/Hayward introduction to their spine mid-season clearly didn’t work.

Many believe Galvin is a better five-eighth than halfback, and he finally got a go there in the last game – and played his best match for the Dogs.

There’s no doubt he will add to the side next season, especially with an off season under his belt alongside his new teammates.

But despite the unhappy ending, there were plenty of positives to come out of the year.

Watch the 2025 NRL premiership live and free on Nine and 9Now.

The Bulldogs’ defensive system was the best in the league, 45 points better than any other team, conceding an average of just 17 points per game.

Canterbury’s attack, particularly in the outside backs, looked crisp and sharp and the tries flowed.

Fullback Connor Tracey, classy skipper Stephen Crichton, Matt Burton, Jacob Kiraz, Bronson Xerri and newcomers Marcelo Montoya, Enari Tuala and rookie Jethro Rinakama all enjoyed successful campaigns.

Max King was the headline act in the forwards, going from a ‘no frills’ first grader to an Origin player and he led the pack with authority.

Once he overcame injury, Sitili Tupouniua was a great gain from the Roosters, adding strike power with his running game.

The powerhouse Viliame Kikau, Hayward, Kurt Mann, Harry Hayes, Sam Hughes and Jaeman Salmon all had their moments, while back-rower Jacob Preston was outstanding, topping the club’s tryscoring list with 12.

The club will have time plenty of time to reflect on their fall from grace over the summer – and smart men in Ciraldo and Gus Gould at the helm to ensure it doesn’t happen again.

Best player: Preston was as good as any back-rower in the NRL and if the NSW selectors decide to pick their team on form next season, he should be among the first selected.

Jacob Preston had an outstanding season for the Bulldogs.  Getty

Biggest disappointment: In his second season with the Dogs, utility Jake Turpin started just one game and is likely to be moved on for 2026.

Key signing: Leo Thompson from Newcastle is a real weapon and he will add a lot of muscle to an already formidable pack.

2026 gains: Leo Thompson (Knights), Kade Dykes (Sharks)

2026 losses: Toby Sexton (Catalans), Reed Mahoney (Cowboys)