In addition to companionship, most dogs crave running and sniffing and exploring. Go for long walks daily, if possible, and use a retractable leash that allows your dog to run ahead and check out interesting fire hydrants. Bring joy with toys. Imagine being stuck outside, by yourself, with absolutely nothing to do but watch the mud dry. Even the simplest toys, like a towel with a knot in it or a tennis ball, can provide hours of entertainment for a lonely dog.
Dogs love to chew, so be sure they have rubber bones and other chewables.
Fence your yard. If dogs must ever be left outside, they would like nothing better than to explore every nook and cranny of their yard. If a fence is out of your budget, attach a swivel hook to a running line that enables the dog to run back and forth without getting tangled. Use a harness. Protect your dog from the cold.