We just got a cockapoo puppy last week. Been fortunate as I generally work weekends/some nights and my girlfriend is a regular mon-fri, so there's always someone around. Doing the crate training as I type and left the room - a few whines, but generally not bad. This is something we need to get him used to as there will be days when he's left alone. Definitely agree with what others have said - 8 hours is definitely too long to leave him, but get a dog walker - many of them offer a "puppy service" too where they'll come in a couple of times.
Our wee guy, Barra's great and I would recommend a cockapoo. Apparently they are great with kids too
(so far he's been silent in the crate for 10 minutes. A new record! slowly, but surely he's learning!)