What are some hardships faced by Buck and the team during their journey?

Buck and the team face numerous challenges throughout their journey, prominently including harsh weather, scarcity of food, and brutal treatment from humans.

The severe weather conditions often put Buck and the other sled dogs at risk, as they are exposed to freezing temperatures and blizzards that severely test their endurance and resilience. The scarcity of food is another critical hardship; as their journey progresses, the team frequently experiences hunger, which impairs their strength and ability to perform. Additionally, the brutal treatment from humans, particularly when they are driven to their limits or mistreated by handlers, creates an environment of fear and suffering, adding to the challenges they must endure.

These hardships contribute significantly to Buck's transformation and adaptation to the wild, illustrating the themes of survival and the struggle against adversity that permeate the narrative. In contrast, the other options reflect scenarios that do not align with Buck's experiences; for example, there is no indication of too much rest or camaraderie with other teams, which are not characteristics of their arduous journey.