We planted some willow trees a few months back. They are now about 3-4
high. The problem is that the trunks are so thin and willowy, they are
forming a bow shape, and the leafy branches are folding over to the
ground.

We did have some wood stakes and wire guards around them to protect
them from our mutts knocking into them. But now, without the supports,
the trunks would form a half-circle.

I know you're not supposed to support stems of plants, or they can't
stand on their own, but we figured these willows would stand on their
own when their trunks got large enough. We don't want mishapen trees.

Any solutions, or is this normal?

Blujay