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.
Thanks for the tips...sounds like there are LOTS of options out there. I like the idea of building something myself, but I think my best bet (since I have no carpentry skills and neither do my brothers!) may be to save up for a kennel of some sort. I DO have a side door (the one in my picture), and that spot is probably the most logical for putting a kennel if I end up getting one. There's a big bush there that would need to be cut back / eliminated, but I should probably do that anyway...so not a big deal.
Regardless of whether or not I take on Fritz, I think I should plan on doing this at some point, anyway. Fiona makes it through the day and Fritz would too, but I'm sure they'd rather be able to go out when they need to - and it would make my life easier, too! I could just let them out when they had to go instead of digging out the leash and standing over them...
