I had problems in the earlier days with my deer grey colly grey, he use to knock his toes up all the time and would constantly be limping after a night out, as he's got older this problem seems to have vanished, he's only 3 in nov mind. he runs well now. as for advice, well i'd just say plenty of walking and as you say free running and with some luck you'll come through these problems. all the best anyway and good luck with them in the coming season. phil_h