In which environment does Buck find himself at the beginning of the novel?

At the beginning of "The Call of the Wild," Buck finds himself in a comfortable home in California. This setting provides a crucial backdrop for understanding his character and the dramatic changes he will undergo throughout the story. Buck lives a life of luxury and security as a large and powerful dog, enjoying a privileged existence on a ranch. The contrast between this environment and the brutal realities he will later face in the wilderness of the Klondike highlights his journey from domestication to a more primal state.

This initial setting serves as a baseline for Buck's transformation. As he is thrust into a harsh and unforgiving world, the experiences he encounters challenge his instincts and ultimately lead him to embrace his wild ancestry. The depiction of Buck's home life allows readers to see what he has lost and what he must overcome throughout the novel as he adapts to survive in the wild.