Which animal does Buck develop a close relationship with during his time in the wild?

Buck develops a close relationship with a wolf during his time in the wild, which is significant for several reasons. As Buck returns to his primal instincts and learns to survive in the wilderness, the bond he forms with the wolf symbolizes his connection to nature and his ancestral roots. This relationship helps him understand the wild and embrace his identity as a creature of the forest.

The wolf also represents the freedom and independence that Buck yearns for, contrasting with the constraints he faces in human society. Through his interactions with the wolf, Buck finds companionship and a sense of belonging that is essential for his survival in the harsh environment. This relationship ultimately plays a crucial role in Buck’s transformation from a domesticated dog to a wild animal, illustrating the themes of survival, instinct, and the bond between species in the natural world.