Numerical models using a 3-D finite element analysis method and the behaviour of dowel-welded wood joints are presented. Simulation results for step butt wood joints with two welded wood dowels under shear are analyzed and a good agreement with the experimental results is shown. Anisotropic elasto-plastic constitutive law with hardening associated with material densification, without distinction between radial and tangential properties, was used for the compressive behaviour of wood. The good coherence of the results obtained demonstrates clearly the capability of the model developed to simulate accurately the non-linear behaviour of dowel-welded wood joints to failure. (C) Koninklijke Brill NV, Leiden, 2010