What about a dog run in the backyard? That's where Nebo stays while I am gone. It's pretty big (10x14), it's covered, and it has an igloo and toys to occupy him. I always feed him right when I leave, along with give him a kong or other toy with food in it. I also have a lock on the gate. It took some time for him to adjust to it, but now he's just fine.......he's quiet all day. I have a crate for him too, but I like leaving him in the dog run better, as he can still go potty, eat, move around, etc. He didn't like being left alone at first either...when I got him it was the summer and I didn't have a job.

Reggie and Smokey stay in crates while we are gone. My parents never have, and never will trust a dog alone in the house while we are gone. Smokey likes to pee on things. I do occassionally leave them loose in the house if I'm only going to be gone a half hour or so. Never left Nebo alone in the house though.....that'd be total destruction time!

If you *do* end up getting a dog run, I'd adjust him to being alone in a crate first.......don't want him barking up a storm if you have neighbors close!