The New-Pen-Del Newfoundland Club will host its 40th anniversary water test at Beltzville State Park on Saturday and Sunday.

Newfoundland dogs are a highly intelligent, giant working breed weighing upward of 150 pounds.They are bred for their remarkable temperament (the hallmark of the breed) as well as their outstanding draft, therapy, swimming and water rescue capabilities.Newfoundlands possess powerful instincts for rescue.History documents instance after instance of heroic Newfoundlands saving human lives from a watery demise.The water rescue test for Newfoundlands was created to promote these skills and to encourage the continuation of the breed's rescue instincts.For centuries, Newfoundlands have worked side-by-side with humans.The water test exercises celebrate this unique partnership.The dog works at his owner's bidding, yet much of what he does is independent.The Newfoundland works comfortably at a distance from his owner, using his own intelligence to complete the tasks the owner has set.But he retains a dual focus, listening and responding when his owner requires his attention and compliance.This year, at Beltzville State Park, the club expects to have more than 40 dogs test along with over 100 attendees.The tri-level Newfoundland Water Test started in the United States in 1970 and the dogs compete for a title with exercises in three divisions: the Junior Division, The Senior Division and The Excellent Division.Owners and dogs train all year in order to complete the rigorous set of exercises.On Sunday, the junior test will begin at 8:45 a.m., followed by the senior test. The awards ceremony will be held at approximately 3 p.m.Exercises include retrieving, abandoned boat, multiple person rescue, unconscious victim, towing a boat and swimming with a handler.The water test will be held adjacent to the 525-foot sand beach.Note: Pets are permitted in state recreation areas provided they are on a leash not exceeding 6 feet in length and attended at all times.If you plan to bring a pet, they must be kept away from the testing areas and dogs should not be barking during the test.Feel free to bring chairs or blankets for your comfort.