Install a doggie door.

We had to eventually hire a dog walker. In my dogs younger days, she was fine but as she got older she needed a midday break. Plus during winter months, I swear she got depressed due o lack of sunlight. It sucks as an expense but if you get a pet, you have to take care of it.

I work three days a week. I take my dogs (German Shepherds, so they are large) out at 7am. I get home around 3pm. They are perfectly fine. Even when I’m home, they don’t typically ask to go out during the day. You could always hire a teen to walk your dog after school if you’re worried.

We have an area in the basement that is huge, gated and equipped for the dogs - beds, toys, doggy door to go the fenced in yard, food, water and a pet channel on cable. The two dogs spend their time there.