What is Buck's initial reaction to the harsh conditions of the wilderness?

Buck's initial reaction to the harsh conditions of the wilderness reflects a combination of struggle and rapid adaptation. When Buck is thrust into the brutal environment of the Yukon, he faces a reality that is starkly different from the comfortable life he led in California. The extreme cold, scarcity of food, and the aggressive behaviors of other dogs challenge him significantly at first.

However, Buck possesses an inherent resilience and intelligence which enable him to learn quickly from his experiences. He begins to understand the importance of teamwork, instinctual survival skills, and the need to assert his dominance in a pack hierarchy. This process of struggle ultimately serves Buck well, as he evolves into a strong and capable creature who can survive and thrive in the wilderness. This aspect of Buck's character arc echoes the central theme of adaptation to one's environment in the novel.