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In the part of Australia I'm from we have Norfolk Island Pines all over the place. Brittle and dry foliage is not uncommon. You were right to let it drain. These trees are moderately tolerant to waterlogged soil, but do better in a well draining sandy soil.

Like most coastal Australian plants they're salt and drought tolerant and can still grow in low nutrient soil. However there's a common belief that Australian plants don't like fertiliser - this is not true, they just don't need as much as other plants.

I assume it's still in a pot, if it's in a good draining mix don't worry about it. If it's in a dense mix I'd suggest re-potting it in a mix with about 1/3 to 1/2 course sand (propagating or river sand).

But really, don't worry too much about it these are very hardy trees, and a bit of extra water while they're young helps them become established.

Norfolk Island pine should have only one trunk, so you will probably want to remove all but one central trunk. Multiple trunks are often an indication that the plant has been injured in the past, (such as a hard frost.)

Here is an article about caring for an indoor Norfolk pine. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search/

You are not alone in having needle and limb dropping on a Norfolk Pine. The Norfolk is actually a tropical plant, so water, light, and humidity are so important.

Here is a link to an excellent article.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-dropping-branches.htm

Topping trees is inadvisable. It can permanently disfigure and damage the tree, and may even kill it.

For more information, please visit the following link:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/tree-topping-information.htm

You can move it outdoors once the weather turns mild (keep in mind that they are a tropical plant and cannot tolerate temperatures below 35 F.). Put it in an open but protected location in an area that is cool and ventilated with light shade.

For more information on the norfolk island pine, please visit the following link:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/norfolk-pine/norfolk-island-pine-care.htm

It is normal for Norfolk Island pine trees to have some browning on the bottom branches. But if the brown branches seem to be high on the plant or if they can be found all over the tree, this is a sign that the plant is either overwatered, underwatered or is not getting enough humidity.