Earnings per Share (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, except Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Jan. 26, 2013	Jan. 28, 2012	Jan. 26, 2013	Jan. 28, 2012
Numerator (basic and diluted) [Abstract]
Net income attributable to La-Z-Boy Incorporated	$ 17,064	$ 14,958	$ 28,081	$ 68,364
Income allocated to participating securities	(218)	(275)	(401)	(1,296)
Net income available to common shareholders	$ 16,846	$ 14,683	$ 27,680	$ 67,068
Denominator [Abstract]
Basic weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	52,431,000	51,811,000	52,327,000	51,928,000
Add [Abstract]
Contingent common shares (in shares)	438,000	0	345,000	0
Stock option dilution (in shares)	532,000	568,000	529,000	512,000
Diluted weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares)	53,401,000	52,379,000	53,201,000	52,440,000
Outstanding options to purchase shares (in shares)	200,000	700,000	200,000	700,000
Weighted average exercise price (in dollars per share)	$ 20.74	$ 16.37	$ 20.74	$ 16.37