What are Django proxy models and how do I use them?

What are Django proxy models and how do I use them?

Django proxy models allow you to create a subclass of an existing model without creating a new database table. You can use them to add new methods or change the behavior of the original model.

Can you give me an example of how to define a proxy model?

Sure! Here's a simple example:

class OriginalModel(models.Model):
    name = models.CharField(max_length=100)

class ProxyModel(OriginalModel):
    class Meta:
        proxy = True

    def new_method(self):
        return f'Hello, {self.name}!'

What are some use cases for using proxy models?

Proxy models are useful for adding custom methods, changing the admin interface, or implementing different behaviors without altering the original model's database structure.

Are there any limitations I should be aware of?

Yes, proxy models cannot add new fields or change the existing fields of the original model. They are strictly for behavior modification.