Can you build a little fenced area outside and a doggie door out the back for both of them?I wonder...I really have very little land, but it's not like they'd need much, right? My cats ARE indoor, but I wonder if I could figure out a way to make a sort of small, fenced in run. I would think you might be able to put chicken wire or something on top without it being TOO tacky looking, eh? ;-) Something to think about, I guess.
They don't need much room to get the job done, and a little gravelled run (if it is small, because grass won't be able to grow) outside would be what I would do. They even make kennel runs with covers that might be cat-proof that would not be tacky, or a fencing contractor could do it. (these are expensive, but you can get ideas by googling "covered dog run" or "covered dog kennel"
http://www.dogtrailers.co.uk/images/BigPics/Galloway%20Kennel%20with%20MF%20Cabin.jpg )
Anyone in your family that has any carpentry skills could build a cover out of mesh or solid that would work. Make it tall so it is easy to get in and clean!
I know your land isn't flat... keep in mind that while it is cheapest to install a doggie door in a door because it is easy to replace the whole door when you no longer want it, doggie doors can be installed in any wall if there is a flatter or better place for it somewhere other than out the back door.
Otherwise, I fear I am adding to your problems rather than taking them away, and these things could be handled later on. If he is a young dog, he has the ability to learn to hold it while you are gone, even a full work day. It is a training issue that he could learn, just like Fiona did. Mine were able to, when they were young, but Zulu is losing it now (criminy, she is 17!)
If you do it every day, you can help by learning to time and control their food and water. Access to water doesn't mean a full bucket all the time.... may mean enough for both to wet their whistle without exploding, and I would feed them only at night, probably, so they poop first thing in the morning before you leave and then hopefully not again.. depends on the dog and their processing time.
We used to keep our Boston Terrier on a long chain leash tied to the bottom post of the railing next to the front steps. On her end it was clipped to her harness. It was just long enough to let her reach the edge of our front yard, and being centrally located gave her most of the front yard to explore. And a small chain is more than strong enough for a small dog.
If you go for fencing though, remember that while it doesn't need to be tall or strong, dachshunds like to dig! ;)
