When a dog barks often, is destructive in the house or paces excessively, he/she is sometimes labeled as having separation anxiety. In some cases, it may be true (contact a positive reinforcement-based dog therapist in that case) but in some cases, the dog may be plain bored. Imagine if you had to stay at home for 8-12 or more hours at a time with no people around, your family is at work or school, and you have no other animal companions, no toys, no stimulation, nothing to do! Hiring a professional dog walker for an hour is good, and there are other things you can do to keep your dog happy and stimulated, when he has to be at home alone. This is a helpful article by Victoria Stilwell, world-renowned dog trainer and behavior expert best known as the star of the international megahit series It's Me or the Dog https://positively.com/dog-training/article/behavior-problems-dog-boredom-vs-anxiety.

And this is from Denise Mazzola, with 30 years experience in R+ dog training, solving aggression issues, she has a radio program, a Youtube show called Doggie Dilemmas, and helps dog walkers be their best with her Dog Walking Academy intensive class. Here she recommends specific brain toys, even DIY toys and puzzles, and things to help your dog stay busy for a few hours safely: https://denisemazzola.com/what-is-a-brain-toy/ https://youtu.be/ho0MiClyaDg?si=YtKUJdb2VrTPeSPs

Hope you enjoy!