Results of a double-shear single dowel wood connection tested under monotonic quasi-static loading, according to the EN26891 standard, are discussed in this paper. The Pinus pinaster species, which is one of the most important Portuguese woods, was used in this study. The initial joint slip modulus, the ultimate strength and the ductility are evaluated and compared with values given by the Eurocode 5. Embedding tests are also carried out according to the EN383 standard. The resulting data is used to predict the joint slip modulus, through a proposed analytical model supported by statistical regression analysis data. Finally, a three dimensional finite element model of the wood connection was built and calibrated using available experimental data. This model can be applied to evaluate accurate values for the joint initial slip modulus.