Smart, sociable animals, capybaras are affectionately called giant guinea pigs, but they are not as simple to care for as their smaller cousins. Capybaras are the largest rodents in the world, weighing up to 170 pounds. They are relatively pleasant household pets that fare best in groups.

Do capybaras like to cuddle?

Do They Like to Cuddle? The giant rodent loves to cuddle. They will usually cuddle other capybaras, but when this isn't possible, they will cuddle almost any animal. There are pictures of capybaras cuddling rabbits, dogs, and, of course, people.

Are capybaras affectionate?

Melanie says capybaras have fur like straw and a voice like a Geiger counter, and they are very smart and affectionate — “somewhere between a dog, a cat, and an otter.” They'll walk on a leash and they love to swim, but, like a cat, their love doesn't come easy. “You have to earn their love,” Melanie says.