My dog has a horrible whining problem.?

[hali]

Alright, i have a bichon who is very well behaved as far as listening to me when i call him and is not aggressive. I recently moved in with some roommates and am planning to get a job soon. Here is the problem. When my dog is left alone, even if i just go to the restroom, he whines. I have a collar on him to prevent barking but i cannot stop the whining. i take him out several times a day and he always has water but i am very worried that when i am gone at work he will whine all the time and annoy my roomates. Is there anything i can do to stop this behavior quickly before i get a job? Thank you!!