In The Call of the Wild, would this new theory have worked for Buck

but why wouldn't it have worked for buck

Without more specific information about the new theory, it is difficult to say whether it would have worked for Buck or not. However, it is worth noting that Buck undergoes a transformation in the novel from a domesticated dog to a wild and free creature that embraces his primal instincts. The story highlights Buck's adaptation to the harsh Alaskan wilderness and his development of survival skills. If the new theory conflicts with Buck's natural instincts and inner journey, it may not have worked for him. Ultimately, the success or failure of the theory would depend on its alignment with Buck's character development and the themes explored in the novel.