Mary Allen
Introduction: Who was Buck?
Buck was a fictional dog and the main character in Jack London’s novel "The Call of the Wild." The book was published in 1903 and tells the story of Buck’s journey from a domesticated dog to a wild animal living in the Alaskan wilderness during the Klondike Gold Rush. Buck’s story has become a classic in American literature, and he has become one of the most iconic canine characters in pop culture.
The Origins of Buck: His Ancestry
In the book, Buck is described as a mixed-breed dog, but his exact ancestry is never specified. However, based on the physical traits and temperament that Buck exhibits, many experts believe that he was most likely a cross between a St. Bernard and a Scotch Collie. St. Bernards are known for their strength, loyalty, and courage, while Scotch Collies are intelligent, agile, and have a strong work ethic. These traits are all evident in Buck’s character throughout the story.
The Physical Characteristics of Buck
Buck is described as a large and powerful dog, weighing around 140 pounds. He has a thick, shaggy coat that is a mix of brown, white, and black fur. His head is broad, and his eyes are dark and intelligent. Buck is also very muscular, with strong legs and a broad chest. His physical traits make him an ideal sled dog, capable of pulling heavy loads over long distances in the cold Alaskan wilderness.
The Temperament and Personality of Buck
Despite his size and strength, Buck is also depicted as a gentle and loyal dog. He is fiercely devoted to his owner and will do anything to protect him. Buck is also intelligent, curious, and independent, which makes him a natural leader among the other sled dogs. However, as Buck’s journey progresses, he becomes more wild and instinctual, shedding his domesticated personality and embracing his natural instincts as a wild animal.
Buck as a Sled Dog: His Work and Training
At the beginning of the novel, Buck is a domesticated dog living in California. However, after being stolen and sold into slavery as a sled dog, Buck is forced to adapt to a new way of life. Buck’s training as a sled dog is brutal and often cruel, but it also helps him to develop the skills and instincts necessary to survive in the harsh Alaskan wilderness. As he becomes more experienced, Buck becomes the lead dog on his team, demonstrating his strength, endurance, and intelligence.
Buck’s Adventures in the Wild: His Life in Alaska
After being sold into slavery, Buck is transported to Alaska, where he begins his new life as a sled dog. He experiences many adventures, including surviving harsh weather conditions, battling other dogs, and hunting for food. Throughout his journey, Buck learns to adapt to his new surroundings and becomes more wild and instinctual. He eventually becomes a pack leader among the wolves, embracing his true nature as a wild animal.
The Relationship between Buck and John Thornton
John Thornton is Buck’s final owner and the person who helps him to fully embrace his wild side. Thornton is kind, loving, and respectful of Buck, which allows him to form a deep bond with the dog. Thornton also helps Buck to become more independent, allowing him to follow his natural instincts and live a life of freedom in the wilderness. The relationship between Buck and Thornton is one of the most important themes in the novel, highlighting the importance of trust, loyalty, and mutual respect between humans and animals.
Buck’s Transformation: His Journey to Becoming a Wild Dog
Throughout the novel, Buck undergoes a dramatic transformation from a domesticated dog to a wild animal. This transformation is the result of his experiences as a sled dog and his gradual embrace of his natural instincts. Buck’s journey highlights the struggle between civilization and nature, showing how even the most domesticated animals can become wild and instinctual when placed in the right environment.
The Legacy of Buck: His Impact on Literature and Pop Culture
Buck’s story has had a profound impact on literature and pop culture, becoming one of the most iconic canine characters in history. The novel has been adapted into countless films, TV shows, and stage productions, and Buck has become a symbol of strength, courage, and loyalty. His story has inspired countless people to embrace their natural instincts and to live life to the fullest.
The Debate over Buck’s Breed: Theories and Evidence
Despite Buck’s popularity, there is still debate over his exact breed. While many experts believe that he was a cross between a St. Bernard and a Scotch Collie, others have suggested that he may have been a mix of other breeds, such as a Siberian Husky or a Mastiff. However, there is no definitive evidence to support any one theory, and Buck’s breed remains a subject of speculation.
Conclusion: What Breed Was Buck? The Verdict
While there is no definitive answer to the question of Buck’s breed, based on the evidence and theories presented, it is most likely that he was a cross between a St. Bernard and a Scotch Collie. However, regardless of his exact breed, Buck’s story remains a powerful and inspiring tale of transformation, survival, and the bond between humans and animals.
References and Further Reading
London, Jack. The Call of the Wild. New York: Macmillan Company, 1903.
"St. Bernard Dog Breed Information." American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/st-bernard/.
"Scotch Collie Dog Breed Information." American Kennel Club, https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/scotch-collie/.