I'd recommended an angled toe (front to back) which helps to prevent this a touch. You're effectively then not hitting the ground with a flat front edge and compressing the willow back as much. You could also then round the toe slightly at the corner at the front but leave a it bit squarer at the back. A PU toe guard will also help prevent feathering and any water damage, which weakens the area.
However, if he's that particular that he just wants a square toe and flat at the front, this will likely be the outcome and you may just have to accept it.