Patterson Companies (PDCO) 10-K 27 Jun 18 2018 FY Annual report Financial data

Document and Entity Information

Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Millions	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Jun. 21, 2018	Oct. 28, 2017
Document And Entity Information [Abstract]
Document Type	10-K
Amendment Flag	false
Document Period End Date	Apr. 28, 2018
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2,018
Document Fiscal Period Focus	FY
Trading Symbol	PDCO
Entity Registrant Name	PATTERSON COMPANIES, INC.
Entity Central Index Key	891,024
Current Fiscal Year End Date	--04-28
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer	Yes
Entity Current Reporting Status	Yes
Entity Voluntary Filers	No
Entity Filer Category	Large Accelerated Filer
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		94,718,000
Entity Public Float			$ 3,471

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 62,984	$ 94,959
Receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $9,537 and $9,342	826,877	884,803
Inventory	779,834	711,903
Prepaid expenses and other current assets	103,029	111,928
Total current assets	1,772,724	1,803,593
Property and equipment, net	290,590	298,452
Long-term receivables, net	135,175	101,529
Goodwill	815,977	813,547
Identifiable intangibles, net	389,424	425,436
Other non-current assets	67,774	65,356
Total assets	3,471,664	3,507,913
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable	610,368	616,859
Accrued payroll expense	69,099	56,881
Other accrued liabilities	136,316	156,437
Current maturities of long-term debt	76,598	14,754
Borrowings on revolving credit	16,000	59,000
Total current liabilities	908,381	903,931
Long-term debt	922,030	998,272
Deferred income taxes	152,104	191,686
Other non-current liabilities	27,359	19,591
Total liabilities	2,009,874	2,113,480
Stockholders’ equity:
Common stock, $.01 par value: 600,000 shares authorized; 94,756 and 96,534 shares issued and outstanding	948	966
Additional paid-in capital	103,776	72,973
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	(74,974)	(92,669)
Retained earnings	1,497,766	1,481,234
Unearned ESOP shares	(65,726)	(68,071)
Total stockholders’ equity	1,461,790	1,394,433
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$ 3,471,664	$ 3,507,913

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Pa

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (Parenthetical) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts	$ 9,537	$ 9,342
Common stock, par value (in usd per share)	$ 0.01	$ 0.01
Common stock, authorized shares (in shares)	600,000,000	600,000,000
Common stock, issued shares (in shares)	94,756,000	97,000
Common stock, outstanding shares (in shares)	94,756,000	97,000

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCO

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME AND OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net sales	$ 5,465,683	$ 5,593,127	$ 5,386,703
Cost of sales	4,266,317	4,291,730	4,063,955
Gross profit	1,199,366	1,301,397	1,322,748
Operating expenses	979,477	1,013,469	975,035
Operating income from continuing operations	219,889	287,928	347,713
Other income (expense):
Other income, net	6,117	6,013	4,045
Interest expense	(46,743)	(43,060)	(50,065)
Income from continuing operations before taxes	179,263	250,881	301,693
Income tax expense (benefit)	(21,711)	77,093	116,009
Net income from continuing operations	200,974	173,788	185,684
Net income (loss) from discontinued operations	0	(2,895)	1,500
Net income	$ 200,974	$ 170,893	$ 187,184
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations (in usd per share)	$ 2.17	$ 1.83	$ 1.91
Discontinued operations (in usd per share)	0	(0.03)	0.02
Basic (in usd per share)	2.17	1.80	1.93
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations (in usd per share)	2.16	1.82	1.90
Discontinued operations (in usd per share)	0	(0.03)	0.01
Diluted (in usd per share)	$ 2.16	$ 1.79	$ 1.91
Weighted average shares:
Basic (in shares)	92,467	94,897	97,222
Diluted (in shares)	93,094	95,567	97,902
Dividends declared per common share (in usd per share)	$ 1.04	$ 0.98	$ 0.9
Comprehensive income
Net income	$ 200,974	$ 170,893	$ 187,184
Foreign currency translation gain (loss)	15,824	(26,450)	(9,552)
Cash flow hedges, net of tax	1,871	1,745	1,934
Comprehensive income	$ 218,669	$ 146,188	$ 179,566

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHAN

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	Total	Common Stock	Additional Paid-in Capital	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)	Retained Earnings	Unearned ESOP Shares
Beginning Balance at Apr. 25, 2015	$ 1,514,123	$ 1,033	$ 21,026	$ (60,346)	$ 1,630,148	$ (77,738)
Beginning balance (in shares) at Apr. 25, 2015		103,278
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Foreign currency translation	(9,552)			(9,552)
Cash flow hedges	1,934			1,934
Net income	187,184				187,184
Dividends declared	(88,218)				(88,218)
Common stock issued and related tax benefits	12,877	$ 2	12,875
Common stock issued and related tax benefits (in shares)		208
Repurchases of common stock	(200,000)	$ (44)	0		(199,956)
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)		(4,379)
Stock based compensation	14,576		14,576
ESOP activity	8,822					8,822
Ending Balance at Apr. 30, 2016	1,441,746	$ 991	48,477	(67,964)	1,529,158	(68,916)
Ending balance (in shares) at Apr. 30, 2016		99,107
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Foreign currency translation	(26,450)			(26,450)
Cash flow hedges	1,745			1,745
Net income	170,893				170,893
Dividends declared	(93,461)				(93,461)
Common stock issued and related tax benefits	6,789	$ 3	6,786
Common stock issued and related tax benefits (in shares)		282
Repurchases of common stock	(125,384)	$ (28)			(125,356)
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)		(2,855)
Stock based compensation	17,710		17,710
ESOP activity	845					845
Ending Balance at Apr. 29, 2017	$ 1,394,433	$ 966	72,973	(92,669)	1,481,234	(68,071)
Ending balance (in shares) at Apr. 29, 2017	97	96,534
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Foreign currency translation	$ 15,824			15,824
Cash flow hedges	1,871			1,871
Net income	200,974				200,974
Dividends declared	(96,964)				(96,964)
Common stock issued and related tax benefits	12,407	$ 4	12,403
Common stock issued and related tax benefits (in shares)		369
Repurchases of common stock	(87,500)	$ (22)			(87,478)
Repurchase of common stock (in shares)		(2,147)
Stock based compensation	18,400		18,400
ESOP activity	2,345					2,345
Ending Balance at Apr. 28, 2018	$ 1,461,790	$ 948	$ 103,776	$ (74,974)	$ 1,497,766	$ (65,726)
Ending balance (in shares) at Apr. 28, 2018	94,756	94,756

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Operating activities:
Net income	$ 200,974	$ 170,893	$ 187,184
Net income (loss) from discontinued operations	0	(2,895)	1,500
Net income from continuing operations	200,974	173,788	185,684
Adjustments to reconcile net income from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	45,115	40,004	34,315
Amortization	38,701	43,814	48,068
Intangible asset impairment	0	36,312	0
Bad debt expense	6,280	1,642	8,246
Non-cash employee compensation	36,532	19,025	28,851
Accelerated amortization of debt issuance costs on early retirement of debt	0	60	5,153
Deferred income taxes	(41,058)	(13,713)	(16,034)
Change in assets and liabilities, net of acquired:
Receivables	60,211	(103,181)	(57,249)
Inventory	(60,475)	(961)	(118,351)
Accounts payable	(12,103)	59,654	119,690
Accrued liabilities	(24,726)	(9,009)	(4,055)
Long term receivables	(83,445)	(63,976)	(38,882)
Other changes from operating activities, net	12,889	(17,845)	(563)
Net cash provided by operating activities- continuing operations	178,895	165,614	194,873
Net cash used in operating activities- discontinued operations	0	(2,895)	(38,544)
Net cash provided by operating activities	178,895	162,719	156,329
Investing activities:
Additions to property and equipment	(43,263)	(47,019)	(79,354)
Acquisitions and equity investments, net of cash assumed	0	0	(1,106,583)
Collection of deferred purchase price receivables	49,650	51,402	22,320
Proceeds from sale of securities	0	0	48,744
Other investing activities	10,600	(3,190)	0
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	16,987	1,193	(1,114,873)
Net cash provided by investing activities- discontinued operations	0	0	714,239
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities	16,987	1,193	(400,634)
Financing activities:
Dividends paid	(99,199)	(95,910)	(90,597)
Repurchases of common stock	(87,500)	(125,384)	(200,000)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt	150,000	0	1,000,000
Debt issuance costs	0	0	(11,600)
Debt amendment costs	0	(1,266)	0
Retirement of long-term debt	(164,754)	(26,238)	(682,375)
Draw on (payment on) revolver	(43,000)	39,000	20,000
Other financing activities	14,291	7,635	7,441
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities	(230,162)	(202,163)	42,869
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	2,305	(4,243)	(8,371)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents	(31,975)	(42,494)	(209,807)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period	94,959	137,453	347,260
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period	62,984	94,959	137,453
Supplemental disclosures:
Income taxes paid	19,611	108,394	151,662
Interest paid	$ 36,504	$ 34,972	$ 37,883

Summary of Significant Accounti

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies	Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Description of Business Patterson Companies, Inc. (referred to herein as “Patterson” or in the first person notations “we,” “our,” and “us”) is a value-added specialty distributor serving the U.S. and Canadian dental supply and the U.S., Canadian and U.K. animal health supply markets. Patterson has three reportable segments: Dental, Animal Health and Corporate. Basis of Presentation The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of our wholly owned subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The respective assets of PDC Funding Company, LLC and PDC Funding Company II, LLC would be available first and foremost to satisfy the claims of their respective creditors. There are no known creditors of PDC Funding Company, LLC or PDC Funding Company II, LLC. Fiscal Year End We operate with a 52-53 week accounting convention with our fiscal year ending on the last Saturday in April. Fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 ended on April 28, 2018 , April 29, 2017 and April 30, 2016 , respectively. Fiscal 2018 and 2017 consisted of 52 weeks, while fiscal 2016 consisted of 53 weeks. Fiscal 2019 will end on April 27, 2019 and will consist of 52 weeks. Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash equivalents consist primarily of investments in money market funds and government securities. The maturity of these securities at the time of purchase is 90 days or less. All cash and cash equivalents are classified as available-for-sale and carried at fair value, which approximates cost. Inventory Inventory consists of merchandise held for sale and is stated at the lower of cost or market. The cost of our inventory includes the amount we pay to our suppliers to acquire inventory and freight costs incurred in connection with the delivery of product to our distribution centers and our other locations. Cost is determined using the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method for all inventories, except for foreign inventories, which are valued using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method. Inventories valued at LIFO represented 84% and 84% of total inventories at April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , respectively. Effective January 28, 2018, the Company changed its method of calculating LIFO inventories within its U.S. Animal Health business segment from the double-extension method to the link-chain method. The Company believes that the LIFO Link Chain method of inventory valuation is preferable as the LIFO Link Chain costing method provides a better matching of current costs with current revenues, provides for a LIFO adjustment more representative of the Company’s actual inflation on its inventories and conforms LIFO inventory costing method (Link Chain) with other Patterson operations that use the LIFO inventory method (Link Chain). The Company determined that it is impracticable to determine the cumulative effect of applying this change retrospectively to any periods prior to April 30, 2017 because complete records of inventory purchases are no longer available for periods prior to that date. The Company applied the change as of April 30, 2017, the earliest date practicable. The effect of the change on the results of operations for the year ended April 28, 2018 was to reduce the consolidated LIFO reserve and increase pre-tax income by $1,800 . The effect of the change on interim periods in 2018 was not material. The accumulated LIFO reserve was $82,105 at April 28, 2018 and $77,816 at April 29, 2017 . We believe that inventory replacement cost exceeds the inventory balance by an amount approximating the LIFO reserve. Property and Equipment Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is calculated on the straight-line method over estimated useful lives of up to 39 years for buildings or the expected remaining life of purchased buildings, the term of the lease for leasehold improvements, 3 to 10 years for computer hardware and software, and 5 to 10 years for furniture and equipment. Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of identifiable net assets of businesses acquired. We have two reporting units as of April 28, 2018 ; Dental and Animal Health. Our Corporate reportable segment's assets and liabilities, and net sales and expenses, are allocated to the two reporting units. Other indefinite-lived intangible assets include copyrights, trade names and trademarks. We assess goodwill for impairment annually and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. If we determine that the fair value of the reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount, we evaluate goodwill using a two-step impairment test. Otherwise, we conclude that no impairment is indicated and we do not perform the two-step impairment test. In fiscal 2018 , we determined it was appropriate to perform a two-step impairment test. The first step of the goodwill impairment test compares the book value of a reporting unit, including goodwill, with its fair value, as determined primarily by its discounted cash flows. If the book value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the impairment test is performed to determine the amount of goodwill impairment loss to be recorded. The determination of fair value involves uncertainties because it requires management to make assumptions and to apply judgment to estimate industry and economic factors and the profitability of future business strategies. Patterson conducts impairment testing based on current business strategy in light of present industry and economic conditions, as well as future expectations. Additionally, in assessing goodwill for impairment, the reasonableness of the implied control premium is considered based on market capitalizations and recent market transactions. Other indefinite-lived intangible assets are assessed for impairment by comparing the carrying value of an asset with its fair value. If the carrying value exceeds fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess. The determination of fair value involves assumptions, including projected revenues and gross profit levels, as well as consideration of any factors that may indicate potential impairment. In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018 , management completed its annual goodwill and other indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment tests using the beginning of our fiscal 2018 fourth quarter as the valuation date, and determined there was no impairment, and that our Dental reporting unit was not at risk of failing step 1. The Animal Health reporting unit has a higher level of sensitivity to impairment as management currently assesses the various estimates and assumptions used to conduct these tests. Adverse changes to one or more of these estimates or assumptions could cause us to recognize a material impairment charge on this reporting unit. Subsequent to the annual test being completed, we experienced events and circumstances that indicated that the carrying amount of goodwill may be impaired. These events and circumstances included a decline in our actual earnings, a decline in our projected future earnings and a sustained decrease in our share price. As such, we tested our goodwill for impairment as of April 28, 2018 , and determined that there was no impairment. Long-Lived Assets Long-lived assets, including definite-lived intangible assets, are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable through the estimated undiscounted future cash flows derived from such assets. Our definite-lived intangible assets primarily consist of customer relationships, trade names and trademarks. When impairment exists, the related assets are written down to fair value using level 3 inputs, as discussed further in Note 9. In fiscal 2017, we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $36,312 related to a distribution agreement intangible asset. Refer to Note 3 for more information. Financial Instruments We account for derivative financial instruments under the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.” Our use of derivative financial instruments is generally limited to managing well-defined interest rate risks. We do not use financial instruments or derivatives for any trading purposes. Revenue Recognition Revenues are generated from the sale of consumable products, equipment, software products and services, technical service parts and labor, freight and delivery charges, and other sources. Revenues are recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable, and there is reasonable assurance of collection of the sale. Estimates for returns, damaged goods, rebates, loyalty programs and other revenue allowances are made at the time the revenue is recognized based on the historical experience for such items. In addition to revenues generated from the distribution of consumable products under conventional arrangements (buy/sell agreements) where the full market value of the product is recorded as revenue, the animal health segment may earn a small amount of commission income for services provided under agency agreements with certain pharmaceutical manufacturers. The services generally consist of detailing the product and taking the customer’s order. The agency agreement contrasts to a buy/sell agreement in that the animal health segment does not purchase and handle the product or bill and collect from the customer in an agency relationship with a vendor. Consumable product sales are recorded upon delivery, except in those circumstances where terms of the sale are FOB shipping point, in which case sales are recorded upon shipment. Commissions under agency agreements are recorded when the services are provided. Equipment and software product revenues are recognized upon delivery and, if necessary, installation. In those circumstances where terms of the sale are FOB shipping point, revenues are recognized when products are transferred to the shipping carrier. Revenue derived from post contract customer support for software is deferred and recognized ratably over the period in which the support is provided. Patterson provides financing for select equipment sales. See Note 7 for more information regarding customer financing. Other revenue, including freight and delivery charges and technical service parts and labor, is recognized when the related product revenue is recognized or when the product or services are provided to the customer. The receivables that result from the recognition of revenue are reported net of the related allowances discussed above. Patterson maintains a valuation allowance based upon the expected collectability of receivables held. Estimates are used to determine the valuation allowance and are based on several factors, including historical collection data, economic trends and credit worthiness of customers. Receivables are written off when we determine the amounts to be uncollectible, typically upon customer bankruptcy or non-response to continuous collection efforts. The portions of receivable amounts that are not expected to be collected during the next twelve months are classified as long-term. Patterson has a relatively large, dispersed customer base and no single customer accounts for more than 10% of consolidated net sales. In addition, the equipment sold to customers under finance contracts generally serves as collateral for the contract and the customer provides a personal guarantee as well. Net sales do not include sales tax as we are considered a pass-through conduit for collecting and remitting sales tax. Patterson Advantage Loyalty Program The Dental segment provides a point-based awards program to qualifying customers involving the issuance of “Patterson Advantage dollars” which can be used toward equipment and technology purchases. Patterson Advantage dollars earned during a program year expire one year after the end of the program year. The cost and corresponding liability associated with the program are recognized as contra-revenue in accordance with ASC Topic 605-50, “Revenue Recognition-Customer Payments and Incentives.” As of April 28, 2018 , we believe we have sufficient experience with the program to reasonably estimate the amount of Patterson Advantage dollars that will not be redeemed and thus have recorded a liability for 87% of the maximum potential amount that could be redeemed. We use the redemption recognition method and we recognize the estimated value of unused Advantage dollars as a percentage of Patterson Advantage dollars earned. Breakage recognized was immaterial to all periods presented. Freight and Delivery Charges Freight and delivery charges are included in cost of sales in the consolidated statements of income. Advertising We expense all advertising and promotional costs as incurred, except for direct marketing expenses, which are expensed over the shorter of the life of the asset or one year. Total advertising and promotional expenses were $6,926 , $10,128 and $12,113 for fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. There were no deferred direct-marketing expenses included in the consolidated balance sheets as of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 . Related Party Transactions We have interests in a number of entities that are accounted for using the equity method. During fiscal 2018, 2017 and 2016 we made purchases of $84,175 , $55,194 and $46,361 from these entities, respectively. During fiscal 2018, we recorded sales of $19,743 to these entities. No sales to these entities were recorded in fiscal 2017 or 2016. Income Taxes The liability method is used to account for income tax expense. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are established for deferred tax assets if, after assessment of available positive and negative evidence, it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be fully realized. Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP") Compensation expense related to our defined contribution ESOP is computed based on the shares allocated method. Self-insurance Patterson is self-insured for certain losses related to general liability, product liability, automobile, workers’ compensation and medical claims. We estimate our liabilities based upon an analysis of historical data and actuarial estimates. While current estimates are believed reasonable based on information currently available, actual results could differ and affect financial results due to changes in the amount or frequency of claims, medical cost inflation or other factors. Historically, actual results related to these types of claims have not varied significantly from estimated amounts. Stock-based Compensation We recognize stock-based compensation expense based on estimated grant date fair values. The grant date fair value of stock options and stock purchases made through our Employee Stock Purchase Plan and our Capital Accumulation Plan are estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing valuation model. The grant date fair value of performance stock units that vest upon meeting certain market conditions is estimated using the Monte Carlo valuation model. These valuations require estimates to be made including expected stock price volatility which considers historical volatility trends, implied future volatility based on certain traded options and other factors. We estimate the expected life of awards based on several factors, including types of participants, vesting schedules, contractual terms and various factors surrounding exercise behavior of different groups. The grant date fair value of time-based restricted stock awards and restricted stock units is calculated based on the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant. Compensation expense for all share-based payment awards is recognized over the requisite service period (or to the date a participant becomes eligible for retirement, if earlier) for awards that are expected to vest. Comprehensive Income Comprehensive income is computed as net income plus certain other items that are recorded directly to stockholders’ equity. Significant items included in comprehensive income are foreign currency translation adjustments and the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax. Foreign currency translation adjustments do not include a provision for income tax because earnings from foreign operations are considered to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S. The income tax expense related to cash flow hedge losses was $938 , $1,057 and $883 for fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively. Earnings Per Share ("EPS") The amount of basic EPS is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of outstanding common shares during the period. The amount of diluted EPS is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of outstanding common shares and common share equivalents, when dilutive, during the period. The following table sets forth the denominator for the computation of basic and diluted EPS. There were no material adjustments to the numerator. Fiscal Year Ended April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 April 30, 2016 Denominator Denominator for basic EPS – weighted average shares 92,467 94,897 97,222 Effect of dilutive securities – stock options, restricted stock and stock purchase plans 627 670 680 Denominator for diluted EPS – weighted average shares 93,094 95,567 97,902 Potentially dilutive securities representing 1,380 , 1,133 and 765 shares for fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS because their effects were anti-dilutive. Recent Accounting Pronouncements In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-09, "Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606)". ASU No. 2014-09 supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in "Revenue Recognition (Topic 605)," and requires entities to recognize revenue in a way that depicts the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. In July 2015, the FASB deferred the effective date of this pronouncement by one year to December 15, 2017 for annual reporting periods beginning after that date. Companies may use either a full retrospective or a modified retrospective approach to adopt the standard. We will adopt the new guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2019 using the modified retrospective approach. We do not expect the standard to materially affect our consolidated net earnings, financial position, or cash flows. In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-11, "Inventory (Topic 330), Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory." ASU 2015-11 requires inventory measured using any method other than LIFO or the retail inventory method to be subsequently measured at the lower of cost or net realizable value, rather than at the lower of cost or market. Subsequent measurement of inventory using the LIFO and retail inventory method is unchanged. During the first quarter of fiscal 2018, we adopted ASU No. 2015-11 and it had no material impact to the consolidated financial statements. In January 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-01, "Financial Instruments- Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities (Subtopic 825-10)", which amends certain aspects of recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of financial instruments, including the requirement to measure certain equity investments at fair value with changes in fair value recognized in net income. We are required to adopt the ASU No. 2016-01 in the first quarter of fiscal 2019. We are evaluating the impact of adopting this pronouncement. In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, "Leases (Topic 842)," which requires lessees to recognize assets and liabilities on the balance sheet for the rights and obligations created by most leases, as well as requires additional qualitative and quantitative disclosures. We are required to adopt ASU 2016-02 in the first quarter of fiscal 2020, with early adoption permitted. We plan to adopt the new guidance in the first quarter of fiscal 2020 and are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this pronouncement. In February 2018, the FASB issued ASU No. 2018-02, "Income Statement-Reporting Comprehensive Income (Topic 220) Reclassification of Certain Tax Effects from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income," which will allow a reclassification from accumulated other comprehensive income to retained earnings for the tax effects that are stranded in accumulated other comprehensive income as a result of tax reform. This standard also requires certain disclosures about stranded tax effects. We are required to adopt ASU No. 2018-02 in the first quarter of fiscal 2020, with early adoption permitted, and apply it either in the period of adoption or retrospectively to each period in which the income tax effects of the tax reform related to items in accumulated other comprehensive income are recognized. We are currently evaluating the impact of adopting this pronouncement.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash and Cash Equivalents At April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , cash and cash equivalents consisted of the following: April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 Cash on hand $ 56,334 $ 88,161 Money market funds 6,650 6,798 Total $ 62,984 $ 94,959 Cash on hand is generally in interest earning accounts.

Goodwill and Other Intangible A

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets The changes in the carrying value of goodwill for each of our reportable segments for the fiscal year ended April 28, 2018 are as follows: Balance at April 29, 2017 Activity Balance at April 28, 2018 Dental $ 138,289 $ 1,365 $ 139,654 Animal Health 675,258 1,065 676,323 Corporate — — — Total $ 813,547 $ 2,430 $ 815,977 Activity in fiscal 2018 primarily consists of the impact from foreign currency translation. Balances of other intangible assets, excluding goodwill, are as follows: April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Unamortized - indefinite lived: Copyrights, trade names and trademarks $ 29,900 $ — $ 29,900 $ 29,900 $ — $ 29,900 Amortized - definite lived: Customer relationships 355,488 91,374 264,114 353,237 67,483 285,754 Trade names and trademarks 129,973 49,545 80,428 129,426 35,580 93,846 Developed technology and other 55,326 40,344 14,982 54,209 38,273 15,936 Total amortized intangible assets 540,787 181,263 359,524 536,872 141,336 395,536 Total identifiable intangible assets $ 570,687 $ 181,263 $ 389,424 $ 566,772 $ 141,336 $ 425,436 In fiscal 2006, we extended our exclusive North American distribution relationship with Sirona Dental Systems for its CEREC 3D dental restorative system. At that time, we paid a $100,000 distribution fee to extend the existing exclusive relationship for at least a 10 -year beginning in 2007. This distribution fee was accounted for as an intangible asset in our Dental segment and amortized since 2007. Based on our November 2016 decision not to extend sales exclusivity for the full Sirona portfolio of products, we recorded a pre-tax non-cash impairment charge of $36,312 in our Dental segment in the third quarter fiscal 2017, related to the distribution fee associated with the CEREC product component of this arrangement. This charge was recorded within operating expenses in the consolidated statements of income and other comprehensive income. With respect to the amortized intangible assets, future amortization expense is expected to approximate $36,735 , $35,382 , $35,266 , $34,926 and $34,483 for fiscal 2019 , 2020 , 2021 , 2022 and 2023 , respectively. Actual amounts of amortization expense may differ from estimated amounts due to additional intangible asset acquisitions, changes in foreign currency exchange rates, impairment of intangible assets, accelerated amortization of intangible assets and other events.

Discontinued Operations

Discontinued Operations	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations	Discontinued Operations In August 2015, we sold all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Patterson Medical Holdings, Inc., our wholly owned subsidiary responsible for our medical rehabilitative and assistive products supply business ("Patterson Medical"), for $716,886 in cash to Madison Dearborn Partners. As additional consideration for the shares of Patterson Medical, we obtained a number of common units of the parent company of the buyer equal to 10% of the common units outstanding at closing. Unlike the other common units, these units will only become entitled to begin participating in distributions to the common unit holders at such time, if any, as the Madison Dearborn Partners’ investor cash inflows equal or exceed 2.5 times the Madison Dearborn Partners’ investor cash outflows. These units are non-transferable. In connection with the above described transaction, we also entered into a transition services agreement with our former subsidiary, pursuant to which Patterson Medical, as owned by Madison Dearborn Partners, paid us to provide, among other things, certain information technology, distribution, facilities, finance, tax and treasury, and human resources services. The transition services agreement ended in fiscal 2018, and we no longer provide these services. We classified Patterson Medical’s results of operations as discontinued operations for all periods presented in the consolidated statements of income and other comprehensive income. The operations and cash flows of Patterson Medical have been eliminated from our continuing operations, which were previously recorded as the rehabilitation supply reportable segment.

Property and Equipment

Property and Equipment	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment Property and equipment consisted of the following items: April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 Land $ 10,227 $ 11,518 Buildings 104,720 110,807 Leasehold improvements 26,624 25,173 Furniture and equipment 171,197 159,886 Computer hardware and software 211,453 206,402 Construction-in-progress (1) 59,691 36,211 Property and equipment, gross 583,912 549,997 Accumulated depreciation (293,322 ) (251,545 ) Property and equipment, net $ 290,590 $ 298,452 (1) Includes $43,026 and $27,954 of unamortized computer software development costs of software to be sold as of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , respectively.

Debt

Debt	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Debt	Debt Our long-term debt consists of the following: Carrying Value Interest Rate April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 Senior notes due fiscal 2018 (1) 5.75 % $ — $ 150,000 Senior notes due fiscal 2019 (2) 2.95 % 60,000 60,000 Senior notes due fiscal 2022 (2) 3.59 % 165,000 165,000 Senior notes due fiscal 2024 (2) 3.74 % 100,000 100,000 Senior notes due fiscal 2025 (3) 3.48 % 250,000 250,000 Senior notes due fiscal 2028 (4) 3.79 % 150,000 — Term loan due fiscal 2022 (5) 3.40 % 276,633 291,387 Less: Deferred debt issuance costs (3,005 ) (3,361 ) Total debt 998,628 1,013,026 Less: Current maturities of long-term debt (76,598 ) (14,754 ) Long-term debt $ 922,030 $ 998,272 (1) Issued in March 2008. (2) Issued in December 2011. (3) Issued in March 2015. (4) Issued in March 2018. (5) Issued in June 2015, amended in January 2017. Interest rate is LIBOR plus 1.50% as of April 28, 2018 . Future principal payments due, based on stated contractual maturities for our long-term debt, are as follows as of April 28, 2018 : Fiscal Year 2019 $ 76,598 2020 23,975 2021 29,508 2022 371,552 2023 — Thereafter 500,000 Total $ 1,001,633 During fiscal 2016, we entered into a credit agreement ("Credit Agreement"), under which the lenders provided us with senior unsecured lending facilities of up to $1,500,000 , consisting of a $1,000,000 unsecured term loan and a $500,000 unsecured revolving line of credit. In fiscal 2017, we entered into an amendment of the Credit Agreement (“Amended Credit Agreement”), consisting of a $295,075 term loan and a $750,000 revolving line of credit. Interest on borrowings is variable and is determined as a base rate plus a spread. This spread, as well as a commitment fee on the unused portion of the facility, is based on our leverage ratio, as defined in the Amended Credit Agreement. The term loan and revolving credit facilities will mature no later than January 2022. As of April 28, 2018 , $276,633 of the Amended Credit Agreement unsecured term loan was outstanding at an interest rate of 3.40% , and $16,000 was outstanding under the Amended Credit Agreement revolving line of credit at an interest rate of 2.95% . At April 29, 2017 , $291,387 was outstanding under the Amended Credit Agreement unsecured term loan at an interest rate of 2.24% , and $59,000 was outstanding under the Amended Credit Agreement revolving line of credit at an interest rate of 2.19% . In March 2018, we issued fixed-rate senior notes with an aggregate principal amount of $150,000 , due fiscal 2028. The proceeds were used to repay $150,000 of senior notes that came due in March 2018. We are subject to various financial covenants under our debt agreements including the maintenance of leverage and interest coverage ratios. In the event of our default, any outstanding obligations may become due and payable immediately. We were in material compliance with the covenants under our debt agreements as of April 28, 2018 .

Customer Financing

Customer Financing	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Retirement Benefits [Abstract]
Customer Financing	Customer Financing As a convenience to our customers, we offer several different financing alternatives, including a third party program and a Patterson-sponsored program. For the third party program, we act as a facilitator between the customer and the third party financing entity with no on-going involvement in the financing transaction. Under the Patterson-sponsored program, equipment purchased by creditworthy customers may be financed up to a maximum of $1,000 . We generally sell our customers’ financing contracts to outside financial institutions in the normal course of our business. These financing arrangements are accounted for as a sale of assets under the provisions of ASC 860, Transfers and Servicing . We currently have two arrangements under which we sell these contracts. First, we operate under an agreement to sell a portion of our equipment finance contracts to commercial paper conduits with The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd. ("BTMU") serving as the agent. We utilize PDC Funding to fulfill a requirement of participating in the commercial paper conduit. We receive the proceeds of the contracts upon sale to BTMU. At least 9.5% of the proceeds are held by the conduit as security against eventual performance of the portfolio. This percentage can be greater and is based upon certain ratios defined in the agreement with BTMU. The capacity under the agreement with BTMU at April 28, 2018 was $575,000 . Second, we maintain an agreement with Fifth Third Bank ("Fifth Third") whereby Fifth Third purchases customers’ financing contracts. PDC Funding II sells its financing contracts to Fifth Third. We receive the proceeds of the contracts upon sale to Fifth Third. At least 11.0% of the proceeds are held by the conduit as security against eventual performance of the portfolio. This percentage can be greater and is based upon certain ratios defined in the agreement with Fifth Third. The capacity under the agreement with Fifth Third at April 28, 2018 was $100,000 . We service the financing contracts under both arrangements, for which we are paid a servicing fee. The servicing fees we receive are considered adequate compensation for services rendered. Accordingly, no servicing asset or liability has been recorded. The portion of the purchase price for the receivables held by the conduits is deemed a deferred purchase price receivable, which is paid to the applicable special purpose entity as payments on the customers’ financing contracts are collected by Patterson from customers. The difference between the carrying amount of the receivables sold under these programs and the sum of the cash and fair value of the deferred purchase price receivables received at time of transfer is recognized as a gain on sale of the related receivables and recorded in net sales in the consolidated statements of income and other comprehensive income. Expenses incurred related to customer financing activities are recorded in operating expenses in our consolidated statements of income and other comprehensive income. During fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , we sold $312,699 , $357,965 and $359,646 of contracts under these arrangements, respectively. We recorded net sales in the consolidated statements of income and other comprehensive income of $13,347 , $20,580 and $30,123 during fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively, related to these contracts sold. Included in cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated balance sheets are $35,741 and $17,902 as of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , respectively, which represent cash collected from previously sold customer financing contracts that have not yet been settled. Included in current receivables in the consolidated balance sheets are $46,232 , net of unearned income of $8 , and $124,098 , net of unearned income of $940 , as of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , respectively, of finance contracts we have not yet sold. A total of $617,610 of finance contracts receivable sold under the arrangements was outstanding at April 28, 2018 . The deferred purchase price receivable under the arrangements was $150,404 and $119,798 as of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , respectively. Since the internal financing program began in 1994, bad debt write-offs have amounted to less than 1% of the loans originated. The arrangements require us to maintain a minimum current ratio and maximum leverage ratio. We were in compliance with those covenants at April 28, 2018 .

Derivative Financial Instrument

Derivative Financial Instruments	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivative Financial Instruments	Derivative Financial Instruments We are a party to certain offsetting and identical interest rate cap agreements entered into to fulfill certain covenants of the equipment finance contract sale agreements. The interest rate cap agreements also provide a credit enhancement feature for the financing contracts sold by PDC Funding and PDC Funding II to the commercial paper conduit. The interest rate cap agreements are canceled and new agreements are entered into periodically to maintain consistency with the dollar maximum of the sale agreements and the maturity of the underlying financing contracts. As of April 28, 2018 , PDC Funding had purchased an interest rate cap from a bank with a notional amount of $575,000 and a maturity date of July 2025. We sold an identical interest rate cap to the same bank. As of April 28, 2018 , PDC Funding II had purchased an interest rate cap from a bank with a notional amount of $100,000 and a maturity date of July 2025. We sold an identical interest rate cap to the same bank. These interest rate cap agreements do not qualify for hedge accounting treatment and, accordingly, we record the fair value of the agreements as an asset or liability and the change as income or expense during the period in which the change occurs. In March 2008, we entered into two forward starting interest rate swap agreements, each with notional amounts of $100,000 and accounted for as cash flow hedges, to hedge interest rate fluctuations in anticipation of the issuance of the senior notes due fiscal 2015 and fiscal 2018 . Upon issuance of the hedged debt, we settled the forward starting interest rate swap agreements and recorded a $1,000 increase, net of income taxes, to other comprehensive income (loss), which was amortized as a reduction to interest expense over the life of the related debt through the fourth quarter of 2018. In January 2014, we entered into a forward interest rate swap agreement with a notional amount of $250,000 and accounted for as a cash flow hedge, to hedge interest rate fluctuations in anticipation of refinancing the 5.17% senior notes due March 25, 2015 . These notes were repaid on March 25, 2015 and replaced with new $250,000 3.48% senior notes due March 24, 2025 . A cash payment of $29,003 was made in March 2015 to settle the interest rate swap. This amount is recorded in other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax, and is recognized as interest expense over the life of the related debt. The following presents the fair value of derivative instruments included in the consolidated balance sheets: Derivative type Classification April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 Assets: Interest rate cap agreements Other noncurrent assets $ 1,613 $ 1,188 Liabilities: Interest rate cap agreements Other noncurrent liabilities $ 1,613 $ 1,188 The following table presents the pre-tax effect of derivative instruments in cash flow hedging relationships on the consolidated statements of income and other comprehensive income ("OCI"): Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss into Income (Effective Portion) Fiscal Year Ended Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Income statement location April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 April 30, 2016 Interest rate swap Interest expense $ (2,809 ) $ (2,802 ) $ (2,817 ) There were no gains or losses recognized in OCI on cash flow hedging derivatives in fiscal 2018 , 2017 or 2016 . We recorded no ineffectiveness during fiscal 2018 , 2017 or 2016 . As of April 28, 2018 , the estimated pre-tax portion of accumulated other comprehensive loss that is expected to be reclassified into earnings over the next twelve months is $2,908 , which will be recorded as an increase to interest expense.

Fair Value Measurements

Fair Value Measurements	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value Measurements	Fair Value Measurements Fair value is the price at which an asset could be exchanged in a current transaction between knowledgeable, willing parties. The fair value hierarchy of measurements is categorized into one of three levels based on the lowest level of significant input used: Level 1 – Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities at the measurement date. Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1, such as quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in markets that are not active; or other inputs that are observable or can be corroborated by observable market data. Level 3 – Unobservable inputs for which there is little or no market data available. These inputs reflect management’s assumptions of what market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. Our hierarchy for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis is as follows: April 28, 2018 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 6,650 $ 6,650 $ — $ — Deferred purchase price receivable 150,404 — — 150,404 Derivative instruments 1,613 — 1,613 — Total assets $ 158,667 $ 6,650 $ 1,613 $ 150,404 Liabilities: Derivative instruments $ 1,613 $ — $ 1,613 $ — April 29, 2017 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 6,798 $ 6,798 $ — $ — Deferred purchase price receivable 119,798 — — 119,798 Derivative instruments 1,188 — 1,188 — Total assets $ 127,784 $ 6,798 $ 1,188 $ 119,798 Liabilities: Derivative instruments $ 1,188 $ — $ 1,188 $ — Cash equivalents – We value cash equivalents at their current market rates. The carrying value of cash equivalents approximates fair value and maturities are less than three months. Deferred purchase price receivable – We value the deferred purchase price receivable based on a discounted cash flow analysis using unobservable inputs, which include a forward yield curve, the estimated timing of payments and the credit quality of the underlying creditor. Significant changes in any of the significant unobservable inputs in isolation would not result in a materially different fair value estimate. The interrelationship between these inputs is insignificant. Derivative instruments –Our derivative instruments consist of interest rate cap agreements and interest rate swaps. These instruments are valued using inputs such as interest rates and credit spreads. Certain assets are measured at fair value on a non-recurring basis. These assets are not measured at fair value on an ongoing basis, but are subject to fair value adjustments under certain circumstances, such as when there is evidence of impairment. In fiscal 2017, we recorded a non-cash impairment charge of $36,312 related to a distribution agreement intangible asset. Refer to Note 3 for more information. There were no fair value adjustments to such assets in fiscal 2018 or 2016. Our debt is not measured at fair value in the consolidated balance sheets. The estimated fair value of our debt as of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 was $989,124 and $1,025,761 , respectively, as compared to a carrying value of $998,628 and $1,013,026 at April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , respectively. The fair value of debt was measured using a discounted cash flow analysis based on expected market based yields (i.e., level 2 inputs). The carrying amounts of receivables, net of allowances, accounts payable, and certain accrued and other current liabilities approximated fair value at April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 .

Lease Commitments

Lease Commitments	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Lease Commitments	Lease Commitments Patterson leases facilities for its branch office locations, a few distribution facilities, and certain equipment. These leases are accounted for as operating leases. Future minimum rental payments under noncancelable operating leases are as follows at April 28, 2018 : 2019 $ 21,688 2020 18,121 2021 14,164 2022 10,593 2023 6,056 Thereafter 3,665 Total $ 74,287 Rent expense was $24,425 , $24,502 and $23,315 for fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , respectively.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes The effective income tax rate for the year ended April 28, 2018 was (12.1)% compared to 30.7% for year ended April 29, 2017 . The tax benefit for the year ended April 28, 2018 was primarily due to the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act ("Tax Act"), enacted on December 22, 2017 by the U.S. government. The Tax Act significantly revises the future ongoing U.S. federal corporate income tax by, among other things, lowering the U.S. federal corporate tax rate and implementing a territorial tax system. Effective January 1, 2018, the Tax Act reduced the U.S. federal corporate tax rate from 35.0% to 21.0% . For the fiscal year ended April 28, 2018 , we utilized a blended rate of approximately 30.5% . For the fiscal year ended April 28, 2018 , these impacts resulted in a provisional discrete net tax benefit of $76,648 , which included provisional amounts of $81,871 of tax benefit on U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities, $4,006 of tax expense for a one-time transition tax on unremitted foreign earnings and $1,217 in withholding tax paid on current year distributions. In accordance with the Tax Act, the transition tax will be payable over an eight year period. The legislative changes included in the Tax Act are broad and complex. We determined that the transition tax on unremitted foreign earnings is provisional because various components of the computation are unknown as of April 28, 2018 . In addition, we determined that the impact of the U.S. federal corporate income tax rate change on the U.S. deferred tax assets and liabilities is provisional because the amount cannot be calculated until the underlying timing differences are known rather than estimated. During the fourth quarter, and directly connected to the transition tax legislation, the Company approved a one-time repatriation of cash included in the transition tax computation. There was an approximate $1,217 one-time cost recorded to reflect the added withholding tax cost associated with this repatriation. With the exception of this one-time repatriation, the Company will continue to apply ASC 740 based on the provisions of the tax law that were in effect immediately prior to the enactment of the new law. With regard to unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries generated after December 31, 2017, we do not currently provide for U.S. taxes since we intend to invest such undistributed earnings indefinitely outside of the U.S. We continue to review the anticipated impacts of the global intangible low taxed income (“GILTI”) and base erosion and anti-abuse tax (“BEAT”) provisions which are not effective until fiscal 2019. We have not recorded any impact associated with either GILTI or BEAT for the fiscal year ended April 28, 2018 . The final transition impacts of the Tax Act may differ from the above estimate, possibly materially, due to, among other things, changes in interpretations of the Tax Act, any federal and/or state legislative action to address questions that arise because of the Tax Act, any changes in accounting standards for income taxes or related interpretations in response to the Tax Act, or any updates or changes to estimates we have utilized to calculate the transition impacts. The Securities and Exchange Commission has issued rules, under SAB 118, that will allow for a measurement period of up to one year after the enactment date of the Tax Act to finalize the recording of the related tax impacts. The components of income from continuing operations before taxes are as follows: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Income from continuing operations before taxes United States $ 144,278 $ 217,529 $ 270,501 International 34,985 33,352 31,192 Total $ 179,263 $ 250,881 $ 301,693 Significant components of income tax expense (benefit) are as follows: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Current: Federal $ 5,876 $ 72,339 $ 105,104 Foreign 11,228 9,100 11,690 State 2,243 9,367 15,249 Total current expense 19,347 90,806 132,043 Deferred: Federal (45,177 ) (11,802 ) (14,308 ) Foreign (743 ) (28 ) 323 State 4,862 (1,883 ) (2,049 ) Total deferred benefit (41,058 ) (13,713 ) (16,034 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ (21,711 ) $ 77,093 $ 116,009 Deferred tax assets and liabilities are included in other non-current assets and deferred income taxes on the consolidated balance sheets. Significant components of Patterson’s deferred tax assets (liabilities) as of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 are as follows: April 28, April 29, Deferred tax assets: Capital accumulation plan $ 4,862 $ 7,676 Inventory related items 4,407 6,236 Bad debt allowance 1,052 2,317 Stock based compensation expense 6,514 8,663 Interest rate swap 4,712 8,656 Foreign tax credit 8,472 8,917 Other 11,748 14,269 Gross deferred tax assets 41,767 56,734 Less: Valuation allowance (13,830 ) (14,053 ) Total net deferred tax assets 27,937 42,681 Deferred tax liabilities LIFO reserve (19,727 ) (25,833 ) Amortizable intangibles (84,778 ) (133,037 ) Goodwill (41,635 ) (61,108 ) Property, plant, equipment (33,376 ) (14,389 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (179,516 ) (234,367 ) Deferred net long-term income tax liability $ (151,579 ) $ (191,686 ) At April 28, 2018 , we had a U.S. foreign tax credit asset that will expire in eight years . In addition, we have deferred tax assets which would give rise to tax capital losses if triggered in the future. These losses have a five year carryforward period and can only be used against capital gain income. At this time, we believe that it is more likely than not that the foreign tax credit and capital loss carryforward attributes totaling $13,830 will not be fully utilized prior to expiration. As a result, a full valuation allowance has been established against these assets. In fiscal 2016, we approved a one-time repatriation of approximately $200,000 of foreign earnings. This one-time repatriation reduced the overall cost of funding the acquisition of Animal Health International, Inc. In addition, certain foreign cash at Patterson Medical was required to be repatriated as part of the sale transaction. The continuing operations tax impact of $12,300 from the repatriation was recorded in fiscal 2016. During fiscal 2017, we recorded a $2,406 benefit related to a change in estimate of the tax impact of the cash repatriation. In addition, during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2018, and directly connected to the transition tax legislation, the Company approved a one-time repatriation of cash included in the transition tax computation. There was an approximate $1,217 one-time cost recorded to reflect the added withholding tax cost associated with this repatriation . We have previously asserted that our foreign earnings are permanently reinvested. Except for the repatriations described above, there is no change in our on-going assertion. Income tax expense varies from the amount computed using the U.S. statutory rate. The reasons for this difference and the related tax effects are shown below: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Tax at U.S. statutory rate $ 54,674 $ 87,807 $ 105,593 State tax provision, net of federal benefit 4,650 5,217 7,364 Effect of foreign taxes (186 ) (2,602 ) (1,195 ) Permanent differences (4,219 ) (6,861 ) (3,693 ) Tax on dividends, net of foreign tax credit — (2,406 ) 12,300 Tax reform (76,648 ) — — Other 18 (4,062 ) (4,360 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ (21,711 ) $ 77,093 $ 116,009 We have accounted for the uncertainty in income taxes recognized in the financial statements in accordance with ASC Topic 740, “Income Taxes”. This standard clarifies the separate identification and reporting of estimated amounts that could be assessed upon audit. The potential assessments are considered unrecognized tax benefits, because, if it is ultimately determined they are unnecessary, the reversal of these previously recorded amounts will result in a beneficial impact to our financial statements. As of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , Patterson’s gross unrecognized tax benefits were $14,227 and $14,211 , respectively. If determined to be unnecessary, these amounts (net of deferred tax assets of $2,418 and $3,883 , respectively, related to the tax deductibility of the gross liabilities) would decrease our effective tax rate. The gross unrecognized tax benefits are included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. A summary of the changes in the gross amounts of unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 is shown below: April 28, April 29, Balance at beginning of period $ 14,211 $ 13,560 Additions for tax positions related to the current year 1,713 1,900 Additions for tax positions of prior years 232 418 Reductions for tax positions of prior years (475 ) (194 ) Statute expirations (1,284 ) (1,145 ) Settlements (170 ) (328 ) Balance at end of period $ 14,227 $ 14,211 We also recognize both interest and penalties with respect to unrecognized tax benefits as a component of income tax expense. As of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , we had recorded $1,764 and $1,568 , respectively, for interest and penalties. These amounts are also included in other long-term liabilities on the consolidated balance sheet. These amounts, net of related deferred tax assets, if determined to be unnecessary, would decrease our effective tax rate. During the year ended April 28, 2018 , we recorded as part of tax expense $428 related to an increase in our estimated liability for interest and penalties. Patterson files income tax returns, including returns for our subsidiaries, with federal, state, local and foreign jurisdictions. During fiscal 2018, the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) concluded an audit of fiscal years ended April 25, 2015 and April 30, 2016. During fiscal 2016, the IRS completed an audit of our fiscal years ended April 27, 2013 and April 27, 2014. The outcome of these audits did not have a material adverse impact on our financial statements. The IRS has either examined or waived examination for all periods up to and including our fiscal year ended April 30, 2016, resulting in these periods being closed. In addition to the IRS, periodically, state, local and foreign income tax returns are examined by various taxing authorities. We do not believe that the outcome of these various examinations will have a material adverse impact on our financial statements.

Segment and Geographic Data

Segment and Geographic Data	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment and Geographic Data	Segment and Geographic Data We present three reportable segments: Dental, Animal Health and Corporate. Dental and Animal Health are strategic business units that offer similar products and services to different customer bases. Dental provides a virtually complete range of consumable dental products, equipment and software, turnkey digital solutions and value-added services to dentists, dental laboratories, institutions, and other healthcare professionals throughout North America. Animal Health is a leading, full-line distributor in North America and the U.K. of animal health products, services and technologies to both the production-animal and companion-pet markets. Our Corporate segment is comprised of general and administrative expenses, including home office support costs in areas such as information technology, finance, legal, human resources and facilities. In addition, customer financing and other miscellaneous sales are reported within Corporate results. Corporate assets consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, property and equipment and long-term receivables. We evaluate segment performance based on operating income. The costs to operate the fulfillment centers are allocated to the operating units based on the through-put of the unit. The following tables present information about our reportable segments: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Net sales Dental $ 2,196,078 $ 2,390,219 $ 2,476,234 Animal Health 3,242,564 3,159,826 2,862,249 Corporate 27,041 43,082 48,220 Consolidated net sales $ 5,465,683 $ 5,593,127 $ 5,386,703 Operating income (loss) Dental $ 229,201 $ 263,671 $ 312,176 Animal Health 78,058 88,132 94,318 Corporate (87,370 ) (63,875 ) (58,781 ) Consolidated operating income $ 219,889 $ 287,928 $ 347,713 Depreciation and amortization Dental $ 7,435 $ 11,840 $ 18,903 Animal Health 50,892 50,144 44,243 Corporate 25,489 21,834 19,237 Consolidated depreciation and amortization $ 83,816 $ 83,818 $ 82,383 April 28, April 29, Total assets Dental $ 853,555 $ 863,970 Animal Health 2,128,800 2,119,512 Corporate 489,309 524,431 Total assets $ 3,471,664 $ 3,507,913 The following table presents sales information by product for all of our reportable segments: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Consolidated Consumable $ 4,415,643 $ 4,400,888 $ 4,153,921 Equipment and software 709,253 834,526 857,001 Other 340,787 357,713 375,781 Total $ 5,465,683 $ 5,593,127 $ 5,386,703 Dental Consumable $ 1,251,642 $ 1,321,764 $ 1,378,886 Equipment and software 660,355 780,868 806,993 Other 284,081 287,587 290,355 Total $ 2,196,078 $ 2,390,219 $ 2,476,234 Animal Health Consumable $ 3,164,001 $ 3,079,124 $ 2,775,035 Equipment and software 48,898 53,658 50,008 Other 29,665 27,044 37,206 Total $ 3,242,564 $ 3,159,826 $ 2,862,249 Corporate Other 27,041 43,082 48,220 Total $ 27,041 $ 43,082 $ 48,220 The following tables present information by geographic area. There were no material sales between geographic areas. Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Net sales United States $ 4,537,326 $ 4,725,322 $ 4,457,254 United Kingdom 583,057 547,968 626,603 Canada 345,300 319,837 302,846 Total $ 5,465,683 $ 5,593,127 $ 5,386,703 April 28, April 29, Property and equipment, net United States $ 278,508 $ 286,178 United Kingdom 1,773 1,947 Canada 10,309 10,327 Total $ 290,590 $ 298,452

Stockholders' Equity

Stockholders' Equity	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Equity [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity	Stockholders’ Equity Dividends The following table presents our declared and paid cash dividends per share on our common stock for the past three years. Dividends were declared and paid in the same period. We expect to continue paying a quarterly cash dividend into the foreseeable future. Quarter Fiscal year 1 2 3 4 2018 $ 0.26 $ 0.26 $ 0.26 $ 0.26 2017 0.24 0.24 0.24 0.26 2016 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.24 Share Repurchases During fiscal 2018 , we repurchased and retired 2,147 shares of our common stock for $87,500 , or an average of $40.75 per share. During fiscal 2017 , we repurchased and retired 2,855 shares of our common stock for $125,384 , or an average of $43.91 per share. During fiscal 2016 , we repurchased and retired 4,379 shares of our common stock for $200,000 , or an average of $45.68 per share. On March 13, 2018, the Board of Directors authorized a new $500,000 share repurchase program through March 13, 2021. The new repurchase program replaced the remaining authorization from our March 2013 plan to purchase up to 25,000 shares, which was scheduled to expire on March 19, 2018. As of April 28, 2018 , $500,000 remains available under the current repurchase authorization. Employee Stock Ownership Plan ("ESOP") During 1990, Patterson’s Board of Directors adopted a leveraged ESOP. In fiscal 1991, under the provisions of the plan and related financing arrangements, Patterson loaned the ESOP $22,000 (the “1990 note”) for the purpose of acquiring its then outstanding preferred stock, which was subsequently converted to common stock. The Board of Directors determines the contribution from the Company to the ESOP annually. The contribution is used to retire a portion of the debt, which triggers a release of shares that are then allocated to the employee participants. Shares of stock acquired by the plan are allocated to each participant who has completed 1000 hours of service during the plan year. In fiscal 2011, the final payment on the 1990 note was made and all remaining shares were released for allocation to participants. In fiscal 2002, Patterson’s ESOP and an ESOP sponsored by the Thompson Dental Company (“Thompson”) were used to facilitate the acquisition and merger of Thompson into Patterson. The net result of this transaction was an additional loan of $12,612 being made to the ESOP and the ESOP acquiring 666 shares of common stock. The loan bears interest at current rates but principal did not begin to amortize until fiscal 2012. Beginning in fiscal 2012 and through fiscal 2020, an annual payment of $200 plus interest is due and in fiscal 2020, a final payment of any outstanding principal and interest balance is due. Prepayments of principal can be made at any time without penalty. Of the 666 shares issued in the transaction, 98 were previously allocated to Thompson employees. The remaining 568 shares began to be allocated in fiscal 2004 as interest was paid on the loan. In September 2006, we entered into a third loan agreement with the ESOP and loaned $105,000 (the “2006 note”) for the sole purpose of enabling the ESOP to purchase shares of our common stock. The ESOP purchased 3,160 shares with the proceeds from the 2006 note. Interest on the unpaid principal balance accrues at a rate equal to six-month LIBOR, with the rate resetting semi-annually. Interest payments were not required during the period from and including September 11, 2006 through April 30, 2010. On April 30, 2010, accrued and unpaid interest was added to the outstanding principal balance under the note, with interest thereafter accruing on the increased principal amount. Unpaid interest accruing after April 30, 2010 is due and payable on each successive April 30 occurring through September 10, 2026. Principal payments aren't due until September 10, 2026; however, prepayments can be made without penalty. In fiscal 2012, Patterson contributed $20,214 to the ESOP, which then purchased 844 shares for allocation to the participants. No shares secured by the 2006 note were released prior to fiscal 2011. At April 28, 2018 , a total of 9,303 shares of common stock that have been allocated to participants remained in the ESOP and had a fair market value of $216,567 . Related to the shares from the Thompson transaction, committed-to-be-released shares were 13 and suspense shares were 411 . Finally, with respect to the 2006 note, committed-to-be-released shares were 483 and suspense shares were 1,282 . Unearned ESOP shares are not considered outstanding for the computation of earnings per share until the shares are committed for release to the participants. During fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 , the compensation expense recognized related to the ESOP was $18,132 , $1,315 and $11,953 , respectively. We anticipate the allocation of the remaining suspense, or unearned, shares to occur over a period of approximately 5 to 10 years . As of April 28, 2018 , the fair value of all unearned shares held by the ESOP was $40,220 . We will recognize an income tax deduction as the unearned ESOP shares are released. Such deductions will be limited to the ESOP’s original cost to acquire the shares. Dividends on allocated shares are passed through to the ESOP participants. Dividends on unallocated shares are used by the ESOP to make debt service payments on the notes due to Patterson.

Stock-based Compensation

Stock-based Compensation	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract]
Stock-based Compensation	Stock-based Compensation The consolidated statements of income and other comprehensive income for fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 include pre-tax (after-tax) stock-based compensation expense of $18,400 ( $13,037 ), $17,710 ( $11,910 ) and $16,898 ( $11,120 ). Pre-tax expense is included in operating expenses within the consolidated statements of income and other comprehensive income. As of April 28, 2018 , the total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested awards was $30,276 , and it is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 1.8 years. 2015 Omnibus Incentive Plan In September 2015, our shareholders approved the 2015 Omnibus Incentive Plan ("Incentive Plan"). The aggregate number of shares of common stock that may be issued is 4,000 . The Incentive Plan authorizes various award types to be issued under the plan, including stock options, restricted stock awards, restricted stock units, stock appreciation rights, performance awards, non-employee director awards, cash-based awards and other stock-based awards. We issue new shares for stock option exercises, restricted stock award grants and also for vesting of restricted stock units and performance stock units. Awards that expire or are canceled without delivery of shares generally become available for reissuance under the plan. At April 28, 2018 , there were 2,115 shares available for awards under the Incentive Plan. As a result of the approval of the Incentive Plan, awards are no longer granted under any prior equity incentive plan, but all outstanding awards previously granted under such prior plans will remain outstanding and subject to the terms of such prior plans. At April 28, 2018 , there were 1,202 shares outstanding under prior plans. Inducement Award On December 1, 2017, we issued a restricted stock unit award outside our Incentive Plan to our Chief Executive Officer. The award covers 56 shares of common stock and will vest, assuming continued employment, to the extent of 50% of the award on the first anniversary of the date of grant and the remaining 50% of the award on the second anniversary of the date of grant. Stock Option Awards Stock options granted to employees expire no later than ten years after the date of grant. Awards typically vest over three or five years . The fair value of stock options granted was estimated as of the grant date using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Expected dividend yield 2.2 % 2.0 % 1.8 % Expected stock price volatility 21.6 % 21.2 % 25.6 % Risk-free interest rate 1.9 % 1.2 % 2.1 % Expected life (years) 6.6 6.6 6.7 Weighted average grant date fair value per share $ 8.18 $ 8.32 $ 9.66 The following is a summary of stock option activity: Number of Options Weighted- Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Balance as of April 29, 2017 1,192 $ 52.12 Granted 200 44.09 Exercised (9 ) 36.71 Canceled (177 ) 52.90 Balance as of April 28, 2018 1,206 $ 50.82 $ 31 Vested or expected to vest as of April 28, 2018 914 $ 49.64 $ 31 Exercisable as of April 28, 2018 87 $ 37.38 $ 31 The weighted average remaining contractual lives of options outstanding and options exercisable as of April 28, 2018 were 7.4 and 5.0 years, respectively. Related to stock options exercised, the intrinsic value, cash received and tax benefits realized were $88 , $324 and $3 , respectively, in fiscal 2018 ; $266 , $958 and $36 , respectively, in fiscal 2017 ; and $901 , $3,173 and $854 , respectively, in fiscal 2016 . Restricted Stock Restricted stock awards and restricted stock units granted to employees generally vest over a five , seven or nine year period. Certain restricted stock awards, which are held by branch managers, are subject to accelerated vesting provisions beginning three years after the grant date, based on certain operating goals. Restricted stock awards are also granted to non-employee directors annually and vest over one or three years . The grant date fair value of restricted stock awards and restricted stock units is based on the closing stock price on the day of the grant. The total fair value of restricted stock awards and restricted stock units that vested in fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 was $6,939 , $8,528 and $19,805 , respectively. The following is a summary of restricted stock award activity: Restricted Stock Awards Shares Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding at April 29, 2017 479 $ 38.41 Granted 24 37.94 Vested (132 ) 34.69 Forfeitures (67 ) 37.80 Outstanding at April 28, 2018 304 $ 40.13 The following is a summary of restricted stock unit activity: Restricted Stock Units Shares Weighted- Outstanding at April 29, 2017 304 $ 47.50 Granted 330 44.48 Vested (43 ) 47.19 Forfeitures (50 ) 46.80 Outstanding at April 28, 2018 541 $ 45.74 Performance Unit Awards In fiscal 2018, 2017 and 2016, we granted performance unit awards with a market-based condition to certain executives. The number of shares to be received at vesting will range from 0% - 200% of the target number of stock units based on Patterson's total shareholder return ("TSR") relative to the performance of companies in the S&P Midcap 400 Index measured over a three year period. We estimate the grant date fair value of the TSR awards using the Monte Carlo valuation model. In fiscal 2015, we granted performance unit awards, primarily to executive management, which are earned at the end of a three year period if certain operating goals are met. Accordingly, we recognize expense over the requisite service period based on the outcome that is probable for these awards. No performance unit awards vested in fiscal 2018 or 2017. The total fair value of performance unit awards that vested in fiscal 2016 was $2,966 . The following is a summary of performance unit award activity at target: Performance Unit Awards Shares Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding at April 29, 2017 230 $ 50.88 Granted 102 45.86 Vested — — Forfeitures and cancellations (96 ) 43.67 Outstanding at April 28, 2018 236 $ 51.66 Employee Stock Purchase Plan ("ESPP") We sponsor an ESPP under which a total of 6,750 shares have been reserved for purchase by employees. Eligible employees may purchase shares at 85% of the lower of the fair market value of our common stock on the beginning of the annual offering period, or on the end of each quarterly purchase period, which occur on March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31. The offering periods begin on January 1 of each calendar year and end on December 31 of each calendar year. At April 28, 2018 , there were 670 shares available for purchase under the ESPP. We estimate the grant date fair value of shares purchased under our ESPP using the Black-Scholes option pricing valuation model with the following weighted average assumptions: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Expected dividend yield 2.8 % 2.3 % 2.0 % Expected stock price volatility 28.1 % 32.9 % 21.1 % Risk-free interest rate 1.7 % 0.7 % 0.5 % Expected life (years) 0.6 0.6 0.6 Weighted average grant date fair value per share $ 8.73 $ 10.33 $ 9.16 Capital Accumulation Plan ("CAP") We also sponsor an employee CAP. A total of 6,000 shares of common stock are reserved for issuance under the CAP. Key employees of Patterson are eligible to participate by purchasing common stock through payroll deductions at 75% of the price of the common stock at the beginning of or the end of the calendar year, whichever is lower. The shares issued are restricted stock and are held in the custody of Patterson until the restrictions lapse. The restriction period is typically three years from the beginning of the plan year, and shares are subject to forfeiture provisions. At April 28, 2018 , 1,835 shares were available for purchase under the CAP. We estimate the grant date fair value of shares purchased under our CAP using the Black-Scholes option pricing valuation model with the following weighted average assumptions: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Expected dividend yield 2.8 % 2.3 % 2.0 % Expected stock price volatility 24.4 % 28.3 % 19.7 % Risk-free interest rate 1.8 % 0.9 % 0.6 % Expected life (years) 1.0 1.0 1.0 Weighted average grant date fair value per share $ 12.98 $ 15.21 $ 14.13

Litigation

Litigation	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Litigation	Litigation In September 2015, we were served with a summons and complaint in an action commenced in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, entitled SourceOne Dental, Inc. v. Patterson Companies, Inc., Henry Schein, Inc. and Benco Dental Supply Company, Civil Action No. 15-cv-05440-JMA-GRB. SourceOne, as plaintiff, alleges that, through its website, it markets and sells dental supplies and equipment to dentists. SourceOne alleges in the complaint, among other things, that we, along with the defendants Henry Schein and Benco, conspired to eliminate plaintiff as a competitor and to exclude them from the market for the marketing, distribution and sale of dental supplies and equipment in the U.S. and that defendants unlawfully agreed with one another to boycott dentists, manufacturers, and state dental associations that deal with, or considered dealing with, plaintiff. Plaintiff asserts the following claims: (i) unreasonable restraint of trade in violation of state and federal antitrust laws; (ii) tortious interference with prospective business relations; (iii) civil conspiracy; and (iv) aiding and abetting the other defendants’ ongoing tortious and anticompetitive conduct. Plaintiff seeks equitable relief, compensatory and treble damages, jointly and severally, punitive damages, interest, and reasonable costs and expenses, including attorneys’ fees and expert fees. In June 2017, Henry Schein settled with SourceOne and was dismissed from this litigation with prejudice. We are vigorously defending ourselves in this litigation. We do not anticipate that this matter will have a material adverse effect on our financial statements. Beginning in January 2016, purported antitrust class action complaints were filed against defendants Henry Schein, Inc., Benco Dental Supply Company and Patterson Companies, Inc. Although there were factual and legal variations among these complaints, each alleged that defendants conspired to foreclose and exclude competitors by boycotting manufacturers, state dental associations, and others that deal with defendants’ competitors. On February 9, 2016, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York ordered all of these actions, and all other actions filed thereafter asserting substantially similar claims against defendants, consolidated for pre-trial purposes. On February 26, 2016, a consolidated class action complaint was filed by Arnell Prato, D.D.S., P.L.L.C., d/b/a Down to Earth Dental, Evolution Dental Sciences, LLC, Howard M. May, DDS, P.C., Casey Nelson, D.D.S., Jim Peck, D.D.S., Bernard W. Kurek, D.M.D., Larchmont Dental Associates, P.C., and Keith Schwartz, D.M.D., P.A. (collectively, “putative class representatives”) in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, entitled In re Dental Supplies Antitrust Litigation, Civil Action No. 1:16-CV-00696-BMC-GRB. Subject to certain exclusions, the putative class representatives seek to represent all persons who purchased dental supplies or equipment in the U.S. directly from any of the defendants, since August 31, 2008. In the consolidated class action complaint, putative class representatives allege a nationwide agreement among Henry Schein, Benco, Patterson and non-party Burkhart Dental Supply Company, Inc. not to compete on price. The consolidated class action complaint asserts a single count under Section 1 of the Sherman Act, and seeks equitable relief, compensatory and treble damages, jointly and severally, interest, and reasonable costs and expenses, including attorneys’ fees and expert fees. While the outcome of litigation is inherently uncertain, we believe the consolidated class action complaint is without merit, and we are vigorously defending ourselves in this litigation. On August 31, 2012, Archer and White Sales, Inc. (“Archer”) filed a complaint against Henry Schein, Inc. as well as Danaher Corporation and its subsidiaries Instrumentarium Dental, Inc., Dental Equipment, LLC, Kavo Dental Technologies, LLC and Dental Imaging Technologies Corporation (collectively, the “Danaher Defendants”) in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas, Civil Action No. 2:12-CV-00572-JRG, styled as an antitrust action under Section 1 of the Sherman Act, and the Texas Free Enterprise Antitrust Act. Archer alleges a conspiracy between Henry Schein, an unnamed company and the Danaher Defendants to terminate or limit Archer’s distribution rights. On August 1, 2017, Archer filed an amended complaint, adding Patterson Companies, Inc. and Benco Dental Supply Company as defendants, and alleging that Henry Schein, Patterson, Benco and non-defendant Burkhart Dental Supply Company, Inc. conspired to pressure and agreed to enlist their common suppliers, including the Danaher Defendants, to join a price-fixing conspiracy and boycott by reducing the distribution territory of, and eventually terminating, Archer. Archer seeks injunctive relief, and damages in an amount to be proved at trial, to be trebled with interest and costs, including attorneys’ fees, jointly and severally. On June 25, 2018, the United States Supreme Court granted certiorari to review an arbitration issue raised by the Danaher Defendants, thereby continuing the case stay implemented in March 2018. We are vigorously defending ourselves in this litigation. We do not anticipate that this matter will have a material adverse effect on our financial statements. On August 17, 2017, IQ Dental Supply, Inc. (“IQ Dental”) filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York, entitled IQ Dental Supply, Inc. v. Henry Schein, Inc., Patterson Companies, Inc. and Benco Dental Supply Company, Case No. 2:17-cv-4834. Plaintiff alleges that it is a distributor of dental supplies and equipment, and sells dental products through an online dental distribution platform operated by SourceOne Dental, Inc. IQ Dental alleges, among other things, that defendants conspired to suppress competition from IQ Dental and SourceOne for the marketing, distribution and sale of dental supplies and equipment in the United States, and that defendants unlawfully agreed with one another to boycott dentists, manufacturers and state dental associations that deal with, or considered dealing with, plaintiff and SourceOne. Plaintiff claims that this alleged conduct constitutes unreasonable restraint of trade in violation of Section 1 of the Sherman Act, New York’s Donnelly Act and the New Jersey Antitrust Act, and also makes pendant state law claims for tortious interference with prospective business relations, civil conspiracy and aiding and abetting. Plaintiff seeks injunctive relief, compensatory, treble and punitive damages, jointly and severally, and reasonable costs and expenses, including attorneys’ fees and expert fees. On December 21, 2017, the District Court granted defendants motion to dismiss the complaint with prejudice. Plaintiff has appealed to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. We are vigorously defending ourselves in this litigation. We do not anticipate that this matter will have a material adverse effect on our financial statements. On February 12, 2018, the Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) issued an administrative complaint entitled In the Matter of Benco Dental Supply Co., Henry Schein, Inc., and Patterson Companies, Inc. Docket No. 9379. The administrative complaint alleges “reason to believe” that Patterson and the other respondents violated Section 5 of the FTC Act, 15 U.S.C. § 45 by conspiring to refuse to offer discounted prices or otherwise negotiate with buying groups seeking to obtain supply agreements on behalf of groups of solo practitioners or small group dental practices. The administrative complaint seeks injunctive relief against Patterson, including an order to cease and desist from the conduct alleged in the complaint and a prohibition from conspiring or agreeing with any competitor or any person to refuse to provide discounts to or compete for the business of any customer. No money damages are sought. We are vigorously defending ourselves against the administrative complaint. The administrative complaint provides notice of an October 16, 2018 hearing in front of an Administrative Law Judge of the FTC in Washington, D.C. We do not anticipate this matter will have a material adverse effect on our financial statements. On March 28, 2018, Plymouth County Retirement System (“Plymouth”) filed a federal securities class action complaint against Patterson and its former CEO Scott P. Anderson and former CFO Ann B. Gugino (together, the “Individual Defendants”) in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota in a case captioned Plymouth County Retirement System v. Patterson Companies, Inc., Scott P. Anderson and Ann B. Gugino , Case No. 0:18-cv-008710 MJD/SER. On behalf of all persons or entities that purchased or otherwise acquired Patterson’s common stock between June 26, 2015 and February 28, 2018, Plymouth alleges that Patterson violated federal securities laws by “fail[ing] to disclose that [Patterson’s] revenue and earnings were fraudulently inflated by an illegal and fraudulent price-fixing scheme aimed at prohibiting sales to and price negotiations by GPOs [group purchasing organizations] that represented small and independent dental practices.” We vehemently deny these allegations. In its class action complaint, Plymouth asserts one count against Patterson for violating Section 10(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and Rule 10b-5 promulgated thereunder and a second, related count against the Individual Defendants for violating Section 20(a) of the Exchange Act. Plymouth seeks compensatory damages, pre- and post-judgment interest and reasonable attorneys’ fees and experts’ witness fees and costs. Pursuant to an April 19, 2018 stipulated order, our obligation to answer, move or otherwise respond to the class action complaint is stayed pending the court’s entry of an order appointing lead plaintiffs in the litigation. While the outcome of litigation is inherently uncertain, we believe that the class action complaint is without merit, and we are vigorously defending ourselves in this litigation. We do not anticipate that this matter will have a material adverse effect on our financial statements. From time to time, we may become a party to other legal proceedings, including, without limitation, product liability claims, intellectual property claims, employment matters, commercial disputes, governmental inquiries and investigations (which may in some cases involve our entering into settlement arrangements or consent decrees), and other matters arising out of the ordinary course of our business. While the results of any legal proceeding cannot be predicted with certainty, in our opinion none of these other pending matters is anticipated to have a material adverse effect on our financial statements.

Quarterly Results (unaudited)

Quarterly Results (unaudited)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Quarterly Results (unaudited)	Quarterly Results (unaudited) Quarterly results are determined in accordance with the accounting policies used for annual data and include certain items based upon estimates for the entire year. All fiscal quarters include results for 13 weeks. Quarter Ended April 28, January 27, (1) October 28, July 29, Net sales $ 1,400,609 $ 1,375,222 $ 1,385,737 $ 1,304,115 Gross profit 289,839 294,736 315,743 299,048 Operating income from continuing operations 41,251 50,046 71,759 56,833 Net income from continuing operations 20,928 108,955 40,244 30,847 Net income (loss) from discontinued operations — — — — Net income $ 20,928 $ 108,955 $ 40,244 $ 30,847 Basic earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.23 $ 1.18 $ 0.43 $ 0.33 Discontinued operations — — — — Net basic earnings per share $ 0.23 $ 1.18 $ 0.43 $ 0.33 Diluted earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.23 $ 1.18 $ 0.43 $ 0.33 Discontinued operations — — — — Net diluted earnings per share $ 0.23 $ 1.18 $ 0.43 $ 0.33 Quarter Ended April 29, January 28, (2) October 29, July 30, Net sales $ 1,445,032 $ 1,397,418 $ 1,418,241 $ 1,332,436 Gross profit 335,498 329,761 318,960 317,178 Operating income from continuing operations 96,155 46,554 79,803 65,416 Net income from continuing operations 61,357 27,769 45,756 38,906 Net income (loss) from discontinued operations 334 (3,229 ) — — Net income $ 61,691 $ 24,540 $ 45,756 $ 38,906 Basic earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.65 $ 0.29 $ 0.48 $ 0.41 Discontinued operations 0.01 (0.03 ) — — Net basic earnings per share $ 0.66 $ 0.26 $ 0.48 $ 0.41 Diluted earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.65 $ 0.29 $ 0.48 $ 0.40 Discontinued operations — (0.03 ) — — Net diluted earnings per share $ 0.65 $ 0.26 $ 0.48 $ 0.40 (1) In the third quarter of fiscal 2018, the Tax Act was enacted by the U.S. government. During this quarter, we recorded a provisional discrete net tax benefit of $77,256 within net income from continuing operations. See Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information. (2) In the third quarter of fiscal 2017, we recorded a pre-tax non-cash impairment charge of $36,312 within operating income from continuing operations. See Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Accumulated Other Comprehensive

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss ("AOCL")	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Equity [Abstract]
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss (AOCL)	Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss ("AOCL") The following table summarizes the changes in AOCL as of April 28, 2018 : Cash Flow Hedges Currency Translation Adjustment Total AOCL at April 29, 2017 $ (14,989 ) $ (77,680 ) $ (92,669 ) Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications — 15,824 15,824 Amounts reclassified from AOCL 1,871 — 1,871 AOCL at April 28, 2018 $ (13,118 ) $ (61,856 ) $ (74,974 ) The amounts reclassified from AOCL during fiscal 2018 represent gains and losses on cash flow hedges, net of taxes of $938 . The impact to the consolidated statements of income and other comprehensive income was an increase to interest expense of $2,809 .

Schedule II Valuation And Quali

Schedule II Valuation And Qualifying Accounts	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II Valuation And Qualifying Accounts	SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS PATTERSON COMPANIES, INC. (In thousands) Balance at Beginning of Period Charged to Costs and Expenses Charged to Other Accounts Deductions Balance at End of Period Year ended April 28, 2018 Deducted from asset accounts: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 9,342 $ 6,280 $ — $ 6,085 $ 9,537 LIFO inventory adjustment $ 77,816 $ 4,289 $ — $ — $ 82,105 Inventory obsolescence reserve 5,621 22,919 — 23,164 5,376 Total inventory reserve $ 83,437 $ 27,208 $ — $ 23,164 $ 87,481 Year ended April 29, 2017 Deducted from asset accounts: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 12,008 $ 1,825 $ — $ 4,491 $ 9,342 LIFO inventory adjustment $ 76,501 $ 1,315 $ — $ — $ 77,816 Inventory obsolescence reserve 6,621 18,026 — 19,026 5,621 Total inventory reserve $ 83,122 $ 19,341 $ — $ 19,026 $ 83,437 Year ended April 30, 2016 Deducted from asset accounts: Allowance for doubtful accounts $ 7,678 $ 8,246 $ 1,947 $ 5,863 $ 12,008 LIFO inventory adjustment $ 73,381 $ 3,120 $ — $ — $ 76,501 Inventory obsolescence reserve 4,218 15,547 1,550 14,694 6,621 Total inventory reserve $ 77,599 $ 18,667 $ 1,550 $ 14,694 $ 83,122

Summary of Significant Accoun25

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Description of Business	Patterson Companies, Inc. (referred to herein as “Patterson” or in the first person notations “we,” “our,” and “us”) is a value-added specialty distributor serving the U.S. and Canadian dental supply and the U.S., Canadian and U.K. animal health supply markets. Patterson has three reportable segments: Dental, Animal Health and Corporate.
Basis of Presentation	The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of our wholly owned subsidiaries. Intercompany transactions and balances have been eliminated in consolidation. The respective assets of PDC Funding Company, LLC and PDC Funding Company II, LLC would be available first and foremost to satisfy the claims of their respective creditors. There are no known creditors of PDC Funding Company, LLC or PDC Funding Company II, LLC.
Fiscal Year End	We operate with a 52-53 week accounting convention with our fiscal year ending on the last Saturday in April. Fiscal 2018 , 2017 and 2016 ended on April 28, 2018 , April 29, 2017 and April 30, 2016 , respectively. Fiscal 2018 and 2017 consisted of 52 weeks, while fiscal 2016 consisted of 53 weeks. Fiscal 2019 will end on April 27, 2019 and will consist of 52 weeks.
Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements	The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Reclassifications	.
Cash and Cash Equivalents	Cash equivalents consist primarily of investments in money market funds and government securities. The maturity of these securities at the time of purchase is 90 days or less. All cash and cash equivalents are classified as available-for-sale and carried at fair value, which approximates cost.
Inventory	Inventory consists of merchandise held for sale and is stated at the lower of cost or market. The cost of our inventory includes the amount we pay to our suppliers to acquire inventory and freight costs incurred in connection with the delivery of product to our distribution centers and our other locations. Cost is determined using the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method for all inventories, except for foreign inventories, which are valued using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") method.
Property and Equipment	Property and equipment are stated at cost. Depreciation is calculated on the straight-line method over estimated useful lives of up to 39 years for buildings or the expected remaining life of purchased buildings, the term of the lease for leasehold improvements, 3 to 10 years for computer hardware and software, and 5 to 10 years for furniture and equipment.
Goodwill and Other Indefinite-Lived Intangible Assets	Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of identifiable net assets of businesses acquired. We have two reporting units as of April 28, 2018 ; Dental and Animal Health. Our Corporate reportable segment's assets and liabilities, and net sales and expenses, are allocated to the two reporting units. Other indefinite-lived intangible assets include copyrights, trade names and trademarks. We assess goodwill for impairment annually and whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would indicate that the carrying amount may be impaired. If we determine that the fair value of the reporting unit may be less than its carrying amount, we evaluate goodwill using a two-step impairment test. Otherwise, we conclude that no impairment is indicated and we do not perform the two-step impairment test. In fiscal 2018 , we determined it was appropriate to perform a two-step impairment test. The first step of the goodwill impairment test compares the book value of a reporting unit, including goodwill, with its fair value, as determined primarily by its discounted cash flows. If the book value of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step of the impairment test is performed to determine the amount of goodwill impairment loss to be recorded. The determination of fair value involves uncertainties because it requires management to make assumptions and to apply judgment to estimate industry and economic factors and the profitability of future business strategies. Patterson conducts impairment testing based on current business strategy in light of present industry and economic conditions, as well as future expectations. Additionally, in assessing goodwill for impairment, the reasonableness of the implied control premium is considered based on market capitalizations and recent market transactions. Other indefinite-lived intangible assets are assessed for impairment by comparing the carrying value of an asset with its fair value. If the carrying value exceeds fair value, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess. The determination of fair value involves assumptions, including projected revenues and gross profit levels, as well as consideration of any factors that may indicate potential impairment.
Long-Lived Assets	Long-lived assets, including definite-lived intangible assets, are evaluated for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable through the estimated undiscounted future cash flows derived from such assets. Our definite-lived intangible assets primarily consist of customer relationships, trade names and trademarks. When impairment exists, the related assets are written down to fair value using level 3 inputs, as discussed further in Note 9.
Financial Instruments	We account for derivative financial instruments under the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 815, “Derivatives and Hedging.” Our use of derivative financial instruments is generally limited to managing well-defined interest rate risks. We do not use financial instruments or derivatives for any trading purposes.
Revenue Recognition	Revenues are generated from the sale of consumable products, equipment, software products and services, technical service parts and labor, freight and delivery charges, and other sources. Revenues are recognized when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the price is fixed or determinable, and there is reasonable assurance of collection of the sale. Estimates for returns, damaged goods, rebates, loyalty programs and other revenue allowances are made at the time the revenue is recognized based on the historical experience for such items. In addition to revenues generated from the distribution of consumable products under conventional arrangements (buy/sell agreements) where the full market value of the product is recorded as revenue, the animal health segment may earn a small amount of commission income for services provided under agency agreements with certain pharmaceutical manufacturers. The services generally consist of detailing the product and taking the customer’s order. The agency agreement contrasts to a buy/sell agreement in that the animal health segment does not purchase and handle the product or bill and collect from the customer in an agency relationship with a vendor. Consumable product sales are recorded upon delivery, except in those circumstances where terms of the sale are FOB shipping point, in which case sales are recorded upon shipment. Commissions under agency agreements are recorded when the services are provided. Equipment and software product revenues are recognized upon delivery and, if necessary, installation. In those circumstances where terms of the sale are FOB shipping point, revenues are recognized when products are transferred to the shipping carrier. Revenue derived from post contract customer support for software is deferred and recognized ratably over the period in which the support is provided. Patterson provides financing for select equipment sales. See Note 7 for more information regarding customer financing. Other revenue, including freight and delivery charges and technical service parts and labor, is recognized when the related product revenue is recognized or when the product or services are provided to the customer. The receivables that result from the recognition of revenue are reported net of the related allowances discussed above. Patterson maintains a valuation allowance based upon the expected collectability of receivables held. Estimates are used to determine the valuation allowance and are based on several factors, including historical collection data, economic trends and credit worthiness of customers. Receivables are written off when we determine the amounts to be uncollectible, typically upon customer bankruptcy or non-response to continuous collection efforts. The portions of receivable amounts that are not expected to be collected during the next twelve months are classified as long-term. Patterson has a relatively large, dispersed customer base and no single customer accounts for more than 10% of consolidated net sales. In addition, the equipment sold to customers under finance contracts generally serves as collateral for the contract and the customer provides a personal guarantee as well. Net sales do not include sales tax as we are considered a pass-through conduit for collecting and remitting sales tax.
Patterson Advantage Loyalty Program	The Dental segment provides a point-based awards program to qualifying customers involving the issuance of “Patterson Advantage dollars” which can be used toward equipment and technology purchases. Patterson Advantage dollars earned during a program year expire one year after the end of the program year. The cost and corresponding liability associated with the program are recognized as contra-revenue in accordance with ASC Topic 605-50, “Revenue Recognition-Customer Payments and Incentives.” As of April 28, 2018 , we believe we have sufficient experience with the program to reasonably estimate the amount of Patterson Advantage dollars that will not be redeemed and thus have recorded a liability for 87% of the maximum potential amount that could be redeemed. We use the redemption recognition method and we recognize the estimated value of unused Advantage dollars as a percentage of Patterson Advantage dollars earned. Breakage recognized was immaterial to all periods presented.
Freight and Delivery Charges	Freight and delivery charges are included in cost of sales in the consolidated statements of income.
Advertising	We expense all advertising and promotional costs as incurred, except for direct marketing expenses, which are expensed over the shorter of the life of the asset or one year.
Income Taxes	The liability method is used to account for income tax expense. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on differences between financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities and are measured using the enacted tax rates and laws that will be in effect when the differences are expected to reverse. Valuation allowances are established for deferred tax assets if, after assessment of available positive and negative evidence, it is more likely than not that the deferred tax asset will not be fully realized.
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)	Compensation expense related to our defined contribution ESOP is computed based on the shares allocated method.
Self-insurance	Patterson is self-insured for certain losses related to general liability, product liability, automobile, workers’ compensation and medical claims. We estimate our liabilities based upon an analysis of historical data and actuarial estimates. While current estimates are believed reasonable based on information currently available, actual results could differ and affect financial results due to changes in the amount or frequency of claims, medical cost inflation or other factors. Historically, actual results related to these types of claims have not varied significantly from estimated amounts.
Stock-based Compensation	We recognize stock-based compensation expense based on estimated grant date fair values. The grant date fair value of stock options and stock purchases made through our Employee Stock Purchase Plan and our Capital Accumulation Plan are estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing valuation model. The grant date fair value of performance stock units that vest upon meeting certain market conditions is estimated using the Monte Carlo valuation model. These valuations require estimates to be made including expected stock price volatility which considers historical volatility trends, implied future volatility based on certain traded options and other factors. We estimate the expected life of awards based on several factors, including types of participants, vesting schedules, contractual terms and various factors surrounding exercise behavior of different groups. The grant date fair value of time-based restricted stock awards and restricted stock units is calculated based on the closing price of our common stock on the date of grant. Compensation expense for all share-based payment awards is recognized over the requisite service period (or to the date a participant becomes eligible for retirement, if earlier) for awards that are expected to vest.
Comprehensive Income	Comprehensive income is computed as net income plus certain other items that are recorded directly to stockholders’ equity. Significant items included in comprehensive income are foreign currency translation adjustments and the effective portion of cash flow hedges, net of tax. Foreign currency translation adjustments do not include a provision for income tax because earnings from foreign operations are considered to be indefinitely reinvested outside the U.S.
Earnings Per Share	The amount of basic EPS is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of outstanding common shares during the period. The amount of diluted EPS is computed by dividing net income by the weighted average number of outstanding common shares and common share equivalents, when dilutive, during the period.
Recent Accounting Pronouncements

Summary of Significant Accoun26

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share	The following table sets forth the denominator for the computation of basic and diluted EPS. There were no material adjustments to the numerator. Fiscal Year Ended April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 April 30, 2016 Denominator Denominator for basic EPS – weighted average shares 92,467 94,897 97,222 Effect of dilutive securities – stock options, restricted stock and stock purchase plans 627 670 680 Denominator for diluted EPS – weighted average shares 93,094 95,567 97,902

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Tabl

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash and Cash Equivalents	At April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , cash and cash equivalents consisted of the following: April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 Cash on hand $ 56,334 $ 88,161 Money market funds 6,650 6,798 Total $ 62,984 $ 94,959

Goodwill and Other Intangible28

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Changes in Carrying Value of Goodwill	The changes in the carrying value of goodwill for each of our reportable segments for the fiscal year ended April 28, 2018 are as follows: Balance at April 29, 2017 Activity Balance at April 28, 2018 Dental $ 138,289 $ 1,365 $ 139,654 Animal Health 675,258 1,065 676,323 Corporate — — — Total $ 813,547 $ 2,430 $ 815,977
Balances of Other Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill	Balances of other intangible assets, excluding goodwill, are as follows: April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Gross Accumulated Amortization Net Unamortized - indefinite lived: Copyrights, trade names and trademarks $ 29,900 $ — $ 29,900 $ 29,900 $ — $ 29,900 Amortized - definite lived: Customer relationships 355,488 91,374 264,114 353,237 67,483 285,754 Trade names and trademarks 129,973 49,545 80,428 129,426 35,580 93,846 Developed technology and other 55,326 40,344 14,982 54,209 38,273 15,936 Total amortized intangible assets 540,787 181,263 359,524 536,872 141,336 395,536 Total identifiable intangible assets $ 570,687 $ 181,263 $ 389,424 $ 566,772 $ 141,336 $ 425,436

Property and Equipment (Tables)

Property and Equipment (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Property and Equipment	Property and equipment consisted of the following items: April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 Land $ 10,227 $ 11,518 Buildings 104,720 110,807 Leasehold improvements 26,624 25,173 Furniture and equipment 171,197 159,886 Computer hardware and software 211,453 206,402 Construction-in-progress (1) 59,691 36,211 Property and equipment, gross 583,912 549,997 Accumulated depreciation (293,322 ) (251,545 ) Property and equipment, net $ 290,590 $ 298,452 (1) Includes $43,026 and $27,954 of unamortized computer software development costs of software to be sold as of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 , respectively.

Debt (Tables)

Debt (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Long-term Debt	Our long-term debt consists of the following: Carrying Value Interest Rate April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 Senior notes due fiscal 2018 (1) 5.75 % $ — $ 150,000 Senior notes due fiscal 2019 (2) 2.95 % 60,000 60,000 Senior notes due fiscal 2022 (2) 3.59 % 165,000 165,000 Senior notes due fiscal 2024 (2) 3.74 % 100,000 100,000 Senior notes due fiscal 2025 (3) 3.48 % 250,000 250,000 Senior notes due fiscal 2028 (4) 3.79 % 150,000 — Term loan due fiscal 2022 (5) 3.40 % 276,633 291,387 Less: Deferred debt issuance costs (3,005 ) (3,361 ) Total debt 998,628 1,013,026 Less: Current maturities of long-term debt (76,598 ) (14,754 ) Long-term debt $ 922,030 $ 998,272 (1) Issued in March 2008. (2) Issued in December 2011. (3) Issued in March 2015. (4) Issued in March 2018. (5) Issued in June 2015, amended in January 2017. Interest rate is LIBOR plus 1.50%
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt	of April 28, 2018 . Future principal payments due, based on stated contractual maturities for our long-term debt, are as follows as of April 28, 2018 : Fiscal Year 2019 $ 76,598 2020 23,975 2021 29,508 2022 371,552 2023 — Thereafter 500,000 Total $ 1,001,633

Derivative Financial Instrume31

Derivative Financial Instruments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Fair Value of Derivatie Instruments Included in Consolidated Balance Sheets	The following presents the fair value of derivative instruments included in the consolidated balance sheets: Derivative type Classification April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 Assets: Interest rate cap agreements Other noncurrent assets $ 1,613 $ 1,188 Liabilities: Interest rate cap agreements Other noncurrent liabilities $ 1,613 $ 1,188
Effect of Derivative Instruments in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships on the Consolidated Statements of Income and Other Comprehensive Income	Amount of Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss into Income (Effective Portion) Fiscal Year Ended Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Income statement location April 28, 2018 April 29, 2017 April 30, 2016 Interest rate swap Interest expense $ (2,809 ) $ (2,802 ) $ (2,817 )

Fair Value Measurements (Tables

Fair Value Measurements (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis	Our hierarchy for assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis is as follows: April 28, 2018 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 6,650 $ 6,650 $ — $ — Deferred purchase price receivable 150,404 — — 150,404 Derivative instruments 1,613 — 1,613 — Total assets $ 158,667 $ 6,650 $ 1,613 $ 150,404 Liabilities: Derivative instruments $ 1,613 $ — $ 1,613 $ — April 29, 2017 Total Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Assets: Cash equivalents $ 6,798 $ 6,798 $ — $ — Deferred purchase price receivable 119,798 — — 119,798 Derivative instruments 1,188 — 1,188 — Total assets $ 127,784 $ 6,798 $ 1,188 $ 119,798 Liabilities: Derivative instruments $ 1,188 $ — $ 1,188 $ —

Lease Commitments (Tables)

Lease Commitments (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Future Minimum Rental Payments under Non-Cancelable Operating Leases	Future minimum rental payments under noncancelable operating leases are as follows at April 28, 2018 : 2019 $ 21,688 2020 18,121 2021 14,164 2022 10,593 2023 6,056 Thereafter 3,665 Total $ 74,287

Income Taxes (Tables)

Income Taxes (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Components of Provision for Income Taxes	The components of income from continuing operations before taxes are as follows: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Income from continuing operations before taxes United States $ 144,278 $ 217,529 $ 270,501 International 34,985 33,352 31,192 Total $ 179,263 $ 250,881 $ 301,693 Significant components of income tax expense (benefit) are as follows: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Current: Federal $ 5,876 $ 72,339 $ 105,104 Foreign 11,228 9,100 11,690 State 2,243 9,367 15,249 Total current expense 19,347 90,806 132,043 Deferred: Federal (45,177 ) (11,802 ) (14,308 ) Foreign (743 ) (28 ) 323 State 4,862 (1,883 ) (2,049 ) Total deferred benefit (41,058 ) (13,713 ) (16,034 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ (21,711 ) $ 77,093 $ 116,009
Components of Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities)	Significant components of Patterson’s deferred tax assets (liabilities) as of April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 are as follows: April 28, April 29, Deferred tax assets: Capital accumulation plan $ 4,862 $ 7,676 Inventory related items 4,407 6,236 Bad debt allowance 1,052 2,317 Stock based compensation expense 6,514 8,663 Interest rate swap 4,712 8,656 Foreign tax credit 8,472 8,917 Other 11,748 14,269 Gross deferred tax assets 41,767 56,734 Less: Valuation allowance (13,830 ) (14,053 ) Total net deferred tax assets 27,937 42,681 Deferred tax liabilities LIFO reserve (19,727 ) (25,833 ) Amortizable intangibles (84,778 ) (133,037 ) Goodwill (41,635 ) (61,108 ) Property, plant, equipment (33,376 ) (14,389 ) Total deferred tax liabilities (179,516 ) (234,367 ) Deferred net long-term income tax liability $ (151,579 ) $ (191,686 )
Summary of Effective Income Tax Expense Reconciliation	Income tax expense varies from the amount computed using the U.S. statutory rate. The reasons for this difference and the related tax effects are shown below: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Tax at U.S. statutory rate $ 54,674 $ 87,807 $ 105,593 State tax provision, net of federal benefit 4,650 5,217 7,364 Effect of foreign taxes (186 ) (2,602 ) (1,195 ) Permanent differences (4,219 ) (6,861 ) (3,693 ) Tax on dividends, net of foreign tax credit — (2,406 ) 12,300 Tax reform (76,648 ) — — Other 18 (4,062 ) (4,360 ) Income tax expense (benefit) $ (21,711 ) $ 77,093 $ 116,009
Summary of Changes in Gross Amounts of Unrecognized Tax Benefits	A summary of the changes in the gross amounts of unrecognized tax benefits for the years ended April 28, 2018 and April 29, 2017 is shown below: April 28, April 29, Balance at beginning of period $ 14,211 $ 13,560 Additions for tax positions related to the current year 1,713 1,900 Additions for tax positions of prior years 232 418 Reductions for tax positions of prior years (475 ) (194 ) Statute expirations (1,284 ) (1,145 ) Settlements (170 ) (328 ) Balance at end of period $ 14,227 $ 14,211

Segment and Geographic Data (Ta

Segment and Geographic Data (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Information about Reportable Segments	The following tables present information about our reportable segments: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Net sales Dental $ 2,196,078 $ 2,390,219 $ 2,476,234 Animal Health 3,242,564 3,159,826 2,862,249 Corporate 27,041 43,082 48,220 Consolidated net sales $ 5,465,683 $ 5,593,127 $ 5,386,703 Operating income (loss) Dental $ 229,201 $ 263,671 $ 312,176 Animal Health 78,058 88,132 94,318 Corporate (87,370 ) (63,875 ) (58,781 ) Consolidated operating income $ 219,889 $ 287,928 $ 347,713 Depreciation and amortization Dental $ 7,435 $ 11,840 $ 18,903 Animal Health 50,892 50,144 44,243 Corporate 25,489 21,834 19,237 Consolidated depreciation and amortization $ 83,816 $ 83,818 $ 82,383 April 28, April 29, Total assets Dental $ 853,555 $ 863,970 Animal Health 2,128,800 2,119,512 Corporate 489,309 524,431 Total assets $ 3,471,664 $ 3,507,913
Sales Information by Product	The following table presents sales information by product for all of our reportable segments: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Consolidated Consumable $ 4,415,643 $ 4,400,888 $ 4,153,921 Equipment and software 709,253 834,526 857,001 Other 340,787 357,713 375,781 Total $ 5,465,683 $ 5,593,127 $ 5,386,703 Dental Consumable $ 1,251,642 $ 1,321,764 $ 1,378,886 Equipment and software 660,355 780,868 806,993 Other 284,081 287,587 290,355 Total $ 2,196,078 $ 2,390,219 $ 2,476,234 Animal Health Consumable $ 3,164,001 $ 3,079,124 $ 2,775,035 Equipment and software 48,898 53,658 50,008 Other 29,665 27,044 37,206 Total $ 3,242,564 $ 3,159,826 $ 2,862,249 Corporate Other 27,041 43,082 48,220 Total $ 27,041 $ 43,082 $ 48,220
Information by Geographical Area	The following tables present information by geographic area. There were no material sales between geographic areas. Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Net sales United States $ 4,537,326 $ 4,725,322 $ 4,457,254 United Kingdom 583,057 547,968 626,603 Canada 345,300 319,837 302,846 Total $ 5,465,683 $ 5,593,127 $ 5,386,703 April 28, April 29, Property and equipment, net United States $ 278,508 $ 286,178 United Kingdom 1,773 1,947 Canada 10,309 10,327 Total $ 290,590 $ 298,452

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)

Stockholders' Equity (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Equity [Abstract]
Cash Dividends Declared and Paid	The following table presents our declared and paid cash dividends per share on our common stock for the past three years. Dividends were declared and paid in the same period. We expect to continue paying a quarterly cash dividend into the foreseeable future. Quarter Fiscal year 1 2 3 4 2018 $ 0.26 $ 0.26 $ 0.26 $ 0.26 2017 0.24 0.24 0.24 0.26 2016 0.22 0.22 0.22 0.24

Stock-based Compensation (Table

Stock-based Compensation (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Summary of Stock Options, Weighted Average Assumptions	The fair value of stock options granted was estimated as of the grant date using a Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following assumptions: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Expected dividend yield 2.2 % 2.0 % 1.8 % Expected stock price volatility 21.6 % 21.2 % 25.6 % Risk-free interest rate 1.9 % 1.2 % 2.1 % Expected life (years) 6.6 6.6 6.7 Weighted average grant date fair value per share $ 8.18 $ 8.32 $ 9.66
Summary of Stock Options	The following is a summary of stock option activity: Number of Options Weighted- Average Exercise Price Aggregate Intrinsic Value Balance as of April 29, 2017 1,192 $ 52.12 Granted 200 44.09 Exercised (9 ) 36.71 Canceled (177 ) 52.90 Balance as of April 28, 2018 1,206 $ 50.82 $ 31 Vested or expected to vest as of April 28, 2018 914 $ 49.64 $ 31 Exercisable as of April 28, 2018 87 $ 37.38 $ 31
Summary of Non-Vested Restricted Stock Awards and Performance Unit Awards	The following is a summary of restricted stock award activity: Restricted Stock Awards Shares Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding at April 29, 2017 479 $ 38.41 Granted 24 37.94 Vested (132 ) 34.69 Forfeitures (67 ) 37.80 Outstanding at April 28, 2018 304 $ 40.13 The following is a summary of restricted stock unit activity: Restricted Stock Units Shares Weighted- Outstanding at April 29, 2017 304 $ 47.50 Granted 330 44.48 Vested (43 ) 47.19 Forfeitures (50 ) 46.80 Outstanding at April 28, 2018 541 $ 45.74 The following is a summary of performance unit award activity at target: Performance Unit Awards Shares Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding at April 29, 2017 230 $ 50.88 Granted 102 45.86 Vested — — Forfeitures and cancellations (96 ) 43.67 Outstanding at April 28, 2018 236 $ 51.66
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Summary of Weighted-Average Assumptions	We estimate the grant date fair value of shares purchased under our ESPP using the Black-Scholes option pricing valuation model with the following weighted average assumptions: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Expected dividend yield 2.8 % 2.3 % 2.0 % Expected stock price volatility 28.1 % 32.9 % 21.1 % Risk-free interest rate 1.7 % 0.7 % 0.5 % Expected life (years) 0.6 0.6 0.6 Weighted average grant date fair value per share $ 8.73 $ 10.33 $ 9.16
Capital Accumulation Plan (CAP)
Summary of Weighted-Average Assumptions	We estimate the grant date fair value of shares purchased under our CAP using the Black-Scholes option pricing valuation model with the following weighted average assumptions: Fiscal Year Ended April 28, April 29, April 30, Expected dividend yield 2.8 % 2.3 % 2.0 % Expected stock price volatility 24.4 % 28.3 % 19.7 % Risk-free interest rate 1.8 % 0.9 % 0.6 % Expected life (years) 1.0 1.0 1.0 Weighted average grant date fair value per share $ 12.98 $ 15.21 $ 14.13

Quarterly Results (unaudited) (

Quarterly Results (unaudited) (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Summary of Quarterly Results	Quarter Ended April 28, January 27, (1) October 28, July 29, Net sales $ 1,400,609 $ 1,375,222 $ 1,385,737 $ 1,304,115 Gross profit 289,839 294,736 315,743 299,048 Operating income from continuing operations 41,251 50,046 71,759 56,833 Net income from continuing operations 20,928 108,955 40,244 30,847 Net income (loss) from discontinued operations — — — — Net income $ 20,928 $ 108,955 $ 40,244 $ 30,847 Basic earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.23 $ 1.18 $ 0.43 $ 0.33 Discontinued operations — — — — Net basic earnings per share $ 0.23 $ 1.18 $ 0.43 $ 0.33 Diluted earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.23 $ 1.18 $ 0.43 $ 0.33 Discontinued operations — — — — Net diluted earnings per share $ 0.23 $ 1.18 $ 0.43 $ 0.33 Quarter Ended April 29, January 28, (2) October 29, July 30, Net sales $ 1,445,032 $ 1,397,418 $ 1,418,241 $ 1,332,436 Gross profit 335,498 329,761 318,960 317,178 Operating income from continuing operations 96,155 46,554 79,803 65,416 Net income from continuing operations 61,357 27,769 45,756 38,906 Net income (loss) from discontinued operations 334 (3,229 ) — — Net income $ 61,691 $ 24,540 $ 45,756 $ 38,906 Basic earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.65 $ 0.29 $ 0.48 $ 0.41 Discontinued operations 0.01 (0.03 ) — — Net basic earnings per share $ 0.66 $ 0.26 $ 0.48 $ 0.41 Diluted earnings (loss) per share: Continuing operations $ 0.65 $ 0.29 $ 0.48 $ 0.40 Discontinued operations — (0.03 ) — — Net diluted earnings per share $ 0.65 $ 0.26 $ 0.48 $ 0.40 (1) In the third quarter of fiscal 2018, the Tax Act was enacted by the U.S. government. During this quarter, we recorded a provisional discrete net tax benefit of $77,256 within net income from continuing operations. See Note 11 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information. (2) In the third quarter of fiscal 2017, we recorded a pre-tax non-cash impairment charge of $36,312 within operating income from continuing operations. See Note 3 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional information.

Accumulated Other Comprehensi39

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss ("AOCL") (Tables)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018
Equity [Abstract]
Summary of the Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss	The following table summarizes the changes in AOCL as of April 28, 2018 : Cash Flow Hedges Currency Translation Adjustment Total AOCL at April 29, 2017 $ (14,989 ) $ (77,680 ) $ (92,669 ) Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications — 15,824 15,824 Amounts reclassified from AOCL 1,871 — 1,871 AOCL at April 28, 2018 $ (13,118 ) $ (61,856 ) $ (74,974 )

Summary of Significant Accoun40

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Additional Information (Details)	3 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018USD ($)	Jan. 28, 2017USD ($)	Apr. 28, 2018USD ($)reporting_unitSegment	Apr. 29, 2017USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2016USD ($)
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments | Segment			3
Maturity period of maximum (in days)			90 days
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Number of reporting units | reporting_unit			2
Goodwill impairment	$ 0		$ 0
Asset impairment charges		$ 36,312,000	$ 0	$ 36,312,000	$ 0
Consolidated net sales, percentage			10.00%
Percentage of liability recorded			87.00%
Total advertising and promotional expenses			$ 6,926,000	10,128,000	12,113,000
Deferred direct-marketing expenses included in prepaid and other current assets	$ 0		0	0
The income tax expense (benefit) related to cash flow hedge losses			$ 938,000	$ 1,057,000	$ 883,000
Building
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives			39 years
Computer Hardware And Software | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives			3 years
Computer Hardware And Software | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives			10 years
Office Furniture And Equipment | Minimum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives			5 years
Office Furniture And Equipment | Maximum
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Estimated useful lives			10 years

Summary of Significant Accoun41

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Inventory (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Inventories valued at LIFO as % of total inventories	84.00%	84.00%
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
LIFO inventory reserve	$ (82,105)	$ (77,816)
Increase to pre-tax income	179,263	$ 250,881	$ 301,693
Change in LIFO Calculation Method
New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items]
LIFO inventory reserve	1,800
Increase to pre-tax income	$ 1,800

Summary of Significant Accoun42

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Related Party Transactions (Details) - Equity Method - USD ($)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Sales	$ 19,743,000	$ 0	$ 0
Purchases	$ 84,175,000	$ 55,194,000	$ 46,361,000

Summary of Significant Accoun43

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies - Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Details) - shares shares in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Earnings Per Share [Abstract]
Denominator for basic earnings per share – weighted average shares (in shares)	92,467	94,897	97,222
Effect of dilutive securities – stock options, restricted stock and stock purchase plans (in shares)	627	670	680
Denominator for diluted earnings per share – adjusted weighted average shares (in shares)	93,094	95,567	97,902
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount	1,380	1,133	765

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Deta

Cash and Cash Equivalents (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016	Apr. 25, 2015
Cash and Cash Equivalents [Abstract]
Cash on hand	$ 56,334	$ 88,161
Money market funds	6,650	6,798
Total	$ 62,984	$ 94,959	$ 137,453	$ 347,260

Goodwill and Other Intangible45

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Changes in Carrying Value of Goodwill (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018USD ($)
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 813,547
Activity	2,430
Ending Balance	815,977
Operating Segments | Dental
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	138,289
Activity	1,365
Ending Balance	139,654
Operating Segments | Animal Health
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	675,258
Activity	1,065
Ending Balance	676,323
Operating Segments | Corporate
Goodwill [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	0
Activity	0
Ending Balance	$ 0

Goodwill and Other Intangible46

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Balances of Other Intangible Assets Excluding Goodwill (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017
Unamortized - indefinite lived:
Copyrights, trade names and trademarks	$ 29,900	$ 29,900
Amortized - definite lived:
Gross	540,787	536,872
Accumulated Amortization	(181,263)	(141,336)
Net	359,524	395,536
Total identifiable intangible assets, gross	570,687	566,772
Total amortized intangible assets	389,424	425,436
Customer relationships
Amortized - definite lived:
Gross	355,488	353,237
Accumulated Amortization	(91,374)	(67,483)
Net	264,114	285,754
Trade names and trademarks
Amortized - definite lived:
Gross	129,973	129,426
Accumulated Amortization	(49,545)	(35,580)
Net	80,428	93,846
Developed technology and other
Amortized - definite lived:
Gross	55,326	54,209
Accumulated Amortization	(40,344)	(38,273)
Net	$ 14,982	$ 15,936

Goodwill and Other Intangible47

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 28, 2017	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016	Dec. 31, 2006
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Distribution fee					$ 100,000,000
Distribution agreement period					10 years
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Asset impairment charges	$ 36,312,000	$ 0	$ 36,312,000	$ 0
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract]
2,019		36,735,000
2,020		35,382,000
2,021		35,266,000
2,022		34,926,000
2,023		$ 34,483,000

Discontinued Operations - Addit

Discontinued Operations - Additional Information (Details) - Patterson Medical - Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale - USD ($) $ in Thousands	1 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Aug. 31, 2015	Apr. 28, 2018
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Consideration receivable as per definitive agreement	$ 716,886
Percentage of common units obtained	10.00%
Ratio of acquirer cash inflows to cash outflows at which common units obtained begin participating in distributions	2.5
Transition services agreement, period of involvement		24 months

Property and Equipment - Schedu

Property and Equipment - Schedule of Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Land	$ 10,227	$ 11,518
Buildings	104,720	110,807
Leasehold improvements	26,624	25,173
Furniture and equipment	171,197	159,886
Computer hardware and software	211,453	206,402
Construction-in-progress	59,691	36,211
Property and equipment, gross	583,912	549,997
Accumulated depreciation	(293,322)	(251,545)
Property and equipment, net	290,590	298,452
Unamortized capitalized computer development	$ 43,026	$ 27,954

Debt - Long-Term Debt (Details)

Debt - Long-Term Debt (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Less: Deferred debt issuance costs	$ (3,005)		$ (3,361)
Total	998,628		1,013,026
Less: current debt obligations	(76,598)		(14,754)
Long-term debt	$ 922,030		998,272
Senior Notes 5.75%
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fixed rate	5.75%
Fixed rate senior notes due fiscal 2018 to 2025	$ 0		150,000
Senior Notes 2.95%
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fixed rate	2.95%
Fixed rate senior notes due fiscal 2018 to 2025	$ 60,000		60,000
Senior Notes 3.74%
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fixed rate	3.74%
Fixed rate senior notes due fiscal 2018 to 2025	$ 100,000		100,000
Senior Notes 3.59%
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fixed rate	3.59%
Fixed rate senior notes due fiscal 2018 to 2025	$ 165,000		165,000
Senior Notes 3.48%
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fixed rate	3.48%
Fixed rate senior notes due fiscal 2018 to 2025	$ 250,000		250,000
Senior Notes 3.79%
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fixed rate	3.79%
Fixed rate senior notes due fiscal 2018 to 2025	$ 150,000	$ 150,000	0
Term Loan
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Fixed rate	3.40%
Fixed rate senior notes due fiscal 2018 to 2025	$ 276,633		$ 291,387
Term Loan | LIBOR
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Interest rate	1.50%

Debt - Schedule of Debt Maturit

Debt - Schedule of Debt Maturities (Details) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2018USD ($)
Debt Disclosure [Abstract]
2,019	$ 76,598
2,020	23,975
2,021	29,508
2,022	371,552
2,023	0
Thereafter	500,000
Total	$ 1,001,633

Debt - Additional Information (

Debt - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	1 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2008	Apr. 28, 2018	Mar. 31, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Jun. 30, 2015
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowings on revolving credit		$ 16,000,000		$ 59,000,000
Proceeds used to repay senior notes	$ 150,000
Credit Agreement
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity					$ 1,500,000,000
Credit Agreement | Unsecured Term Loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity					1,000,000,000
Borrowings on revolving credit				$ 291,387,000
Fixed rate				2.24%
Credit Agreement | Revolving Credit Facility
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity					$ 500,000,000
Credit Agreement | Unsecured Revolving Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Borrowings on revolving credit				$ 59,000,000
Fixed rate				2.19%
Amended Credit Agreement | Unsecured Term Loan
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity				$ 295,075,000
Borrowings on revolving credit		$ 276,633,000
Fixed rate		3.40%
Amended Credit Agreement | Unsecured Revolving Line of Credit
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity				750,000,000
Borrowings on revolving credit		$ 16,000,000
Fixed rate		2.95%
Senior Notes Due 2028
Line of Credit Facility [Line Items]
Fixed rate		3.79%
Aggregate principal amount		$ 150,000,000	$ 150,000,000	$ 0

Customer Financing (Details)

Customer Financing (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018USD ($)contract	Apr. 29, 2017USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2016USD ($)	Apr. 25, 2015USD ($)
Customer Financing [Line Items]
Maximum credit financed for equipment purchases for any one customer	$ 1,000,000
Number of customer financing contracts | contract	2
Financing contracts sold under ASC 860	$ 312,699,000	$ 357,965,000	$ 359,646,000
Net sales from sales of financing contracts	13,347,000	20,580,000	30,123,000
Cash and cash equivalents	62,984,000	94,959,000	$ 137,453,000	$ 347,260,000
Current receivables of finance contracts not yet sold	46,232,000	124,098,000
Unearned income	8,000	940,000
Finance contracts receivable sold and outstanding	617,610,000
Deferred purchase price receivable	$ 150,404,000	119,798,000
Maximum bad debt write-offs (percentage)	1.00%
Unsettled Financing Arrangements
Customer Financing [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents	$ 35,741,000	$ 17,902,000
The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd.
Customer Financing [Line Items]
Percentage of principal amount of financing contracts held as collateral (at least)	9.50%
Capacity under agreement	$ 575,000,000
Fifth Third Bank
Customer Financing [Line Items]
Percentage of principal amount of financing contracts held as collateral (at least)	11.00%
Capacity under agreement	$ 100,000,000

Derivative Financial Instrume54

Derivative Financial Instruments - Additional Information (Details)	1 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
	Mar. 31, 2015USD ($)	Mar. 31, 2008USD ($)agreement	Apr. 28, 2018USD ($)	Apr. 29, 2017USD ($)	Apr. 30, 2016USD ($)	Mar. 25, 2015USD ($)	Jan. 31, 2014USD ($)
Derivative [Line Items]
Hedge ineffectiveness recorded			$ 0	$ 0	$ 0
Cash flow hedge gain (loss) to be reclassified into earnings over the next twelve months			(2,908,000)
Interest Rate Cap
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of derivatives			575,000,000
Interest Rate Cap, Funding II
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of derivatives			100,000,000
Interest Rate Swap Agreement
Derivative [Line Items]
Notional amount of derivatives							$ 250,000,000
Number of interest rate swap agreements | agreement		2
Notional amount of derivative asset		$ 100,000,000
Increase to other comprehensive income		$ 1,000,000
Percentage of senior notes							5.17%
Settlement of swap	$ 29,003,000
Interest Rate Swap Agreement | Senior Notes 3.48%
Derivative [Line Items]
Percentage of senior notes						3.48%
Aggregate principal amount						$ 250,000,000
Interest Rate Swap
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative gains recognized in OCI			0	0	0
Derivative losses recognized in OCI			$ 0	$ 0	$ 0

Derivative Financial Instrume55

Derivative Financial Instruments - Fair Value of Interest Rate Contracts Included in Consolidated Balance Sheets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Interest rate contracts, assets, fair value	$ 1,613	$ 1,188
Interest rate, liabilities, fair value	1,613	1,188
Other Noncurrent Assets | Interest Rate Contracts
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Interest rate contracts, assets, fair value	1,613	1,188
Other Noncurrent Liabilities | Interest Rate Contracts
Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items]
Interest rate, liabilities, fair value	$ 1,613	$ 1,188

Derivative Financial Instrume56

Derivative Financial Instruments - Effect of Interest Rate Contracts and Interest Rate Swaps on Consolidated Statements of Income and Other Comprehensive Income (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Interest Rate Swap | Interest Expense | Other Comprehensive Income
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Effect of interest rate contracts	$ (2,809)	$ (2,802)	$ (2,817)

Fair Value Measurements - Asset

Fair Value Measurements - Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017
Assets:
Cash equivalents	$ 6,650	$ 6,798
Deferred purchase price receivable	150,404	119,798
Derivative instruments	1,613	1,188
Total assets	158,667	127,784
Liabilities:
Derivative instruments	1,613	1,188
Level 1
Assets:
Cash equivalents	6,650	6,798
Deferred purchase price receivable	0	0
Derivative instruments	0	0
Total assets	6,650	6,798
Liabilities:
Derivative instruments	0	0
Level 2
Assets:
Cash equivalents	0	0
Deferred purchase price receivable	0	0
Derivative instruments	1,613	1,188
Total assets	1,613	1,188
Liabilities:
Derivative instruments	1,613	1,188
Level 3
Assets:
Cash equivalents	0	0
Deferred purchase price receivable	150,404	119,798
Derivative instruments	0	0
Total assets	150,404	119,798
Liabilities:
Derivative instruments	$ 0	$ 0

Fair Value Measurements - Addit

Fair Value Measurements - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 28, 2017	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Asset impairment charges	$ 36,312,000	$ 0	$ 36,312,000	$ 0
Estimated fair value of debt		989,124,000	1,025,761,000
Long-term debt		$ 998,628,000	$ 1,013,026,000

Lease Commitments - Future Mini

Lease Commitments - Future Minimum Rental Payments Under Non-cancelable Operating Leases (Details) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2018USD ($)
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
2,019	$ 21,688
2,020	18,121
2,021	14,164
2,022	10,593
2,023	6,056
Thereafter	3,665
Total	$ 74,287

Lease Commitments - Additional

Lease Commitments - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Rent expense	$ 24,425	$ 24,502	$ 23,315

Income Taxes - Additional Infor

Income Taxes - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Jan. 27, 2018	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Effective income tax rate		(12.10%)	30.70%
Blended tax rate		30.50%
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, provisional income tax benefit	$ 77,256	$ 76,648,000
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, change in tax rate, deferred taxes, provisional income tax expense		81,871,000
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, transition tax on unremitted foreign earnings		(4,006,000)
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act of 2017, withholding tax on distributions		1,217,000
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Foreign net operating loss carryforwards		13,830,000
Repatriation of foreign earnings		200,000,000
Tax impact of repatriation of foreign earnings			$ (2,406,000)	$ 12,300,000
Gross unrecognized tax benefits		14,227,000	14,211,000	$ 13,560,000
Deferred tax assets, deductibility of gross liabilities		2,418,000	3,883,000
Interest and penalties		1,764,000	$ 1,568,000
Increase in interest and penalties expense		$ 428,000
Foreign Tax Credit Carryforward
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Expiration period		8 years
Capital Loss Carryforward
Tax Credit Carryforward [Line Items]
Expiration period		5 years

Income Taxes - Income From Cont

Income Taxes - Income From Continuing Operations Before Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
United States	$ 144,278	$ 217,529	$ 270,501
International	34,985	33,352	31,192
Income from continuing operations before taxes	$ 179,263	$ 250,881	$ 301,693

Income Taxes - Components of Pr

Income Taxes - Components of Provision for Income Taxes (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Current:
Federal	$ 5,876	$ 72,339	$ 105,104
Foreign	11,228	9,100	11,690
State	2,243	9,367	15,249
Total current	19,347	90,806	132,043
Deferred:
Federal	(45,177)	(11,802)	(14,308)
Foreign	(743)	(28)	323
State	4,862	(1,883)	(2,049)
Total deferred	(41,058)	(13,713)	(16,034)
Income tax expense	$ (21,711)	$ 77,093	$ 116,009

Income Taxes - Components of De

Income Taxes - Components of Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017
Deferred tax assets:
Capital accumulation plan	$ 4,862	$ 7,676
Inventory related items	4,407	6,236
Bad debt allowance	1,052	2,317
Stock based compensation expense	6,514	8,663
Interest rate swap	4,712	8,656
Foreign tax credit	8,472	8,917
Other	11,748	14,269
Gross deferred tax assets	41,767	56,734
Less: Valuation allowance	(13,830)	(14,053)
Total net deferred tax assets	27,937	42,681
Deferred tax liabilities
LIFO reserve	(19,727)	(25,833)
Amortizable intangibles	(84,778)	(133,037)
Goodwill	(41,635)	(61,108)
Property, plant, equipment	(33,376)	(14,389)
Total deferred tax liabilities	(179,516)	(234,367)
Deferred net long-term income tax liability	$ (151,579)	$ (191,686)

Income Taxes - Summary of Effec

Income Taxes - Summary of Effective Income Tax Expense Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Tax at U.S. statutory rate	$ 54,674	$ 87,807	$ 105,593
State tax provision, net of federal benefit	4,650	5,217	7,364
Effect of foreign taxes	(186)	(2,602)	(1,195)
Permanent differences	(4,219)	(6,861)	(3,693)
Tax on dividends, net of foreign tax credit	0	(2,406)	12,300
Tax reform	(76,648)	0	0
Other	18	(4,062)	(4,360)
Income tax expense	$ (21,711)	$ 77,093	$ 116,009

Income Taxes - Summary of Chang

Income Taxes - Summary of Changes in Gross Amounts of Unrecognized Tax Benefits (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of period	$ 14,211	$ 13,560
Additions for tax positions related to the current year	1,713	1,900
Additions for tax positions of prior years	232	418
Reductions for tax positions of prior years	(475)	(194)
Statute expirations	(1,284)	(1,145)
Settlements	(170)	(328)
Balance at end of period	$ 14,227	$ 14,211

Segment and Geographic Data - A

Segment and Geographic Data - Additional Information (Details)	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018Segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of reportable segments	3

Segment and Geographic Data - I

Segment and Geographic Data - Information about Reportable Segments (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Apr. 29, 2017	Jan. 28, 2017	Oct. 29, 2016	Jul. 30, 2016	Apr. 30, 2016	Jan. 30, 2016	Oct. 31, 2015	Aug. 01, 2015	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 1,400,609	$ 1,375,222	$ 1,385,737	$ 1,304,115	$ 1,445,032	$ 1,397,418	$ 1,418,241	$ 1,332,436	$ 5,465,683	$ 5,593,127	$ 5,386,703
Operating income (loss)	41,251	$ 50,046	$ 71,759	$ 56,833	$ 96,155	$ 46,554	$ 79,803	$ 65,416	219,889	287,928	347,713
Depreciation and amortization									83,816	83,818	82,383
Total assets	3,507,913								3,471,664	3,507,913
Dental
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									2,196,078	2,390,219	2,476,234
Operating income (loss)									229,201	263,671	312,176
Depreciation and amortization									7,435	11,840	18,903
Total assets	863,970								853,555	863,970
Animal Health
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									3,242,564	3,159,826	2,862,249
Operating income (loss)									78,058	88,132	94,318
Depreciation and amortization									50,892	50,144	44,243
Total assets	2,119,512								2,128,800	2,119,512
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									27,041	43,082	48,220
Operating income (loss)									(87,370)	(63,875)	(58,781)
Depreciation and amortization									25,489	21,834	$ 19,237
Total assets	$ 524,431								$ 489,309	$ 524,431

Segment and Geographic Data - S

Segment and Geographic Data - Sales Information by Product (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Apr. 29, 2017	Jan. 28, 2017	Oct. 29, 2016	Jul. 30, 2016	Apr. 30, 2016	Jan. 30, 2016	Oct. 31, 2015	Aug. 01, 2015	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 1,400,609	$ 1,375,222	$ 1,385,737	$ 1,304,115	$ 1,445,032	$ 1,397,418	$ 1,418,241	$ 1,332,436	$ 5,465,683	$ 5,593,127	$ 5,386,703
Consumable
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									4,415,643	4,400,888	4,153,921
Equipment and software
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									709,253	834,526	857,001
Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									340,787	357,713	375,781
Dental
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									2,196,078	2,390,219	2,476,234
Dental | Consumable
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									1,251,642	1,321,764	1,378,886
Dental | Equipment and software
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									660,355	780,868	806,993
Dental | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									284,081	287,587	290,355
Animal Health
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									3,242,564	3,159,826	2,862,249
Animal Health | Consumable
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									3,164,001	3,079,124	2,775,035
Animal Health | Equipment and software
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									48,898	53,658	50,008
Animal Health | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									29,665	27,044	37,206
Corporate
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									27,041	43,082	48,220
Corporate | Other
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Net sales									$ 27,041	$ 43,082	$ 48,220

Segment and Geographic Data -70

Segment and Geographic Data - Information by Geographic Area (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended								12 Months Ended
	Apr. 29, 2017	Jan. 28, 2017	Oct. 29, 2016	Jul. 30, 2016	Apr. 30, 2016	Jan. 30, 2016	Oct. 31, 2015	Aug. 01, 2015	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales	$ 1,400,609	$ 1,375,222	$ 1,385,737	$ 1,304,115	$ 1,445,032	$ 1,397,418	$ 1,418,241	$ 1,332,436	$ 5,465,683	$ 5,593,127	$ 5,386,703
Property and equipment, net	298,452								290,590	298,452
United States
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									4,537,326	4,725,322	4,457,254
Property and equipment, net	286,178								278,508	286,178
United Kingdom
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									583,057	547,968	626,603
Property and equipment, net	1,947								1,773	1,947
Canada
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Net sales									345,300	319,837	$ 302,846
Property and equipment, net	$ 10,327								$ 10,309	$ 10,327

Stockholders' Equity - Cash Div

Stockholders' Equity - Cash Dividends Declared and Paid (Details) - $ / shares	3 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Jan. 27, 2018	Oct. 28, 2017	Jul. 29, 2017	Apr. 29, 2017	Jan. 28, 2017	Oct. 29, 2016	Jul. 30, 2016	Apr. 30, 2016	Jan. 30, 2016	Oct. 31, 2015	Aug. 01, 2015
Equity [Abstract]
Cash dividend paid (in usd per share)	$ 0.26	$ 0.26	$ 0.26	$ 0.26	$ 0.26	$ 0.24	$ 0.24	$ 0.24	$ 0.24	$ 0.22	$ 0.22	$ 0.22

Stockholders' Equity - Addition

Stockholders' Equity - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands	Sep. 30, 2006	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016	Apr. 28, 2012	Dec. 31, 2002	Mar. 31, 2013	Mar. 13, 2013	Dec. 31, 1991
Shareholders Equity [Line Items]
Common stock repurchased and retired (in shares)		2,147,000	2,855,000	4,379,000
Common stock repurchased and retired, value		$ 87,500	$ 125,384	$ 200,000
Average cost of common shares repurchased and retired (in usd per share)		$ 40.75	$ 43.91	$ 45.68
Shares authorized for repurchase under share repurchase program (in shares)							25,000,000	500,000,000
Remaining shares available under repurchase program (in shares)		500,000,000
Hours of service completed in order to be allocated shares of stock acquired by plan		1000 hours
Number of shares allocated to ESOP (in shares)		9,303,000
Number of shares allocated to ESOP, Fair value		$ 216,567
ESOP share based compensation expense		18,132	$ 1,315	$ 11,953
Fair value of unearned shares by ESOP		$ 65,726	$ 68,071
Minimum
Shareholders Equity [Line Items]
Unearned shares held by ESOP to occur over a period		5 years
Maximum
Shareholders Equity [Line Items]
Unearned shares held by ESOP to occur over a period		10 years
Unearned ESOP Shares
Shareholders Equity [Line Items]
Fair value of unearned shares by ESOP		$ 40,220
Thompson Dental Company
Shareholders Equity [Line Items]
Additional loan to ESOP						$ 12,612
ESOP acquiring shares during acquisition (in shares)						666,000
Interest due from ESOP					$ 200
Total shares allocated to ESOP (in shares)						98,000
Remaining shares in ESOP (in shares)						568,000
Committed-to-be-released (in shares)		13,000
Suspense shares (in shares)		411,000
1990 Note
Shareholders Equity [Line Items]
ESOP company loan									$ 22,000
2006 Senior Notes
Shareholders Equity [Line Items]
ESOP company loan	$ 105,000
ESOP acquiring shares during acquisition (in shares)	3,160,000				844,000
Contributed to ESOP					$ 20,214
Committed-to-be-released (in shares)		483,000
Suspense shares (in shares)		1,282,000

Stock-based Compensation - Addi

Stock-based Compensation - Additional Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	Dec. 01, 2017	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016	Apr. 25, 2015	Sep. 30, 2015
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expense recognized		$ 18,400	$ 17,710	$ 16,898
After-tax stock-based compensation expense		13,037	$ 11,910	11,120
Compensation cost before income taxes related to non-vested awards yet to be recognized		$ 30,276
Total compensation cost expected to be recognized over a weighted average period		1 year 10 months
Number of shares outstanding (in shares)		1,206,000	1,192,000
Weighted average remaining contractual lives of options outstanding		7 years 5 months
Weighted average remaining contractual lives of options exercisable		5 years
Stock options exercised, intrinsic value		$ 88	$ 266	901
Stock options exercised, cash received		324	958	3,173
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Exercise of Stock Options		$ 3	36	$ 854
Tranche One
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting, percentage	50.00%
Tranche Two
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Award vesting, percentage	50.00%
Restricted Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of performance units vested		43,000
Performance Unit Awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of performance units vested		0		0
Chief Executive Officer | Restricted Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Shares issued (in share)	56,481
2015 Omnibus Incentive Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance (in shares)						4,000,000
Equity Incentive Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares available for awards (in shares)		2,115,000
Prior Equity Incentive Plans
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares outstanding (in shares)		1,202,000
Employee Stock Option Plans
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expiration period		10 years
Employee Stock Option Plans | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		3 years
Employee Stock Option Plans | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Vesting period		5 years
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Total fair value of restricted stock awards vested in period		$ 6,939	$ 8,528	$ 19,805
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units | Tranche One
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee stock vesting period		5 years
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units | Tranche Two
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee stock vesting period		7 years
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units | Tranche Three
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee stock vesting period		9 years
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units | Management
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee stock vesting period		3 years
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Minimum restriction period for restricted stock and restricted stock units		1 year
Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Units | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Minimum restriction period for restricted stock and restricted stock units		3 years
Performance Unit Awards
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Employee stock vesting period		3 years	3 years	3 years	3 years
Total fair value of restricted stock awards vested in period		$ 0		$ 2,966
Performance Unit Awards | Minimum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of shares to be received at vesting		0.00%
Performance Unit Awards | Maximum
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Percentage of shares to be received at vesting		200.00%
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance (in shares)		6,750,000
Number of shares available for awards (in shares)		670,000
Percentage of fair market value of the common stock		85.00%
Capital Accumulation Plan (CAP)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Number of shares of common stock reserved for issuance (in shares)		6,000,000
Number of shares available for awards (in shares)		1,835,000
Minimum restriction period for restricted stock and restricted stock units		3 years
Percentage of fair market value of the common stock		75.00%

Stock-based Compensation - Summ

Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Weighted-Average Assumptions (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Director And Employee Stock Option Plans
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected dividend yield	2.20%	2.00%	1.80%
Expected stock price volatility	21.60%	21.20%	25.60%
Risk-free interest rate	1.90%	1.20%	2.10%
Expected life (years)	6 years 7 months 1 day	6 years 7 months 1 day	6 years 8 months 1 day
Weighted average grant date fair value per share (in usd per share)	$ 8.18	$ 8.32	$ 9.66
Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected dividend yield	2.80%	2.30%	2.00%
Expected stock price volatility	28.10%	32.90%	21.10%
Risk-free interest rate	1.70%	0.70%	0.50%
Expected life (years)	7 months	7 months	7 months
Weighted average grant date fair value per share (in usd per share)	$ 8.73	$ 10.33	$ 9.16
Capital Accumulation Plan (CAP)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items]
Expected dividend yield	2.80%	2.30%	2.00%
Expected stock price volatility	24.40%	28.30%	19.70%
Risk-free interest rate	1.80%	0.90%	0.60%
Expected life (years)	1 year	1 year	1 year
Weighted average grant date fair value per share (in usd per share)	$ 12.98	$ 15.21	$ 14.13

Stock-based Compensation - Su75

Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Stock Options (Details) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018USD ($)$ / sharesshares
Number of Options
Beginning balance (in shares) | shares	1,192
Granted (in shares) | shares	200
Exercised (in shares) | shares	(9)
Canceled (in shares) | shares	(177)
Ending balance (in shares) | shares	1,206
Vested or expected to vest at end of year (in shares) | shares	914
Exercisable at end of year (in shares) | shares	87
Weighted- Average Exercise Price
Beginning balance (in usd per share) | $ / shares	$ 52.12
Granted (in usd per share) | $ / shares	44.09
Exercised (in usd per share) | $ / shares	36.71
Canceled (in usd per share) | $ / shares	52.90
Ending balance (in usd per share) | $ / shares	50.82
Vested or expected to vest at end of year (in usd per share) | $ / shares	49.64
Exercisable at end of year (in usd per share) | $ / shares	$ 37.38
Aggregate Intrinsic Value
Balance at end of year | $	$ 31
Vested or expected to vest at end of year | $	31
Exercisable at end of year | $	$ 31

Stock-based Compensation - Su76

Stock-based Compensation - Summary of Non-Vested Restricted Stock Awards and Performance Unit Awards (Details) - $ / shares	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 30, 2016
Restricted Stock Awards
Shares
Outstanding, Beginning balance (in shares)	479,000
Granted (in shares)	24,000
Vested (in shares)	(132,000)
Forfeitures and cancellations (in shares)	(67,000)
Outstanding, Ending balance (in shares)	304,000
Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value
Beginning balance (in usd per share)	$ 38.41
Granted (in usd per share)	37.94
Vested (in usd per share)	34.69
Forfeitures and cancellations (in usd per share)	37.80
Ending balance (in usd per share)	$ 40.13
Restricted Stock Units
Shares
Outstanding, Beginning balance (in shares)	304,000
Granted (in shares)	330,000
Vested (in shares)	(43,000)
Forfeitures and cancellations (in shares)	(50,000)
Outstanding, Ending balance (in shares)	541,000
Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value
Beginning balance (in usd per share)	$ 47.50
Granted (in usd per share)	44.48
Vested (in usd per share)	47.19
Forfeitures and cancellations (in usd per share)	46.80
Ending balance (in usd per share)	$ 45.74
Performance Unit Awards
Shares
Outstanding, Beginning balance (in shares)	230,000
Granted (in shares)	102,000
Vested (in shares)	0	0
Forfeitures and cancellations (in shares)	(96,000)
Outstanding, Ending balance (in shares)	236,000
Weighted- Average Grant Date Fair Value
Beginning balance (in usd per share)	$ 50.88
Granted (in usd per share)	45.86
Vested (in usd per share)	0
Forfeitures and cancellations (in usd per share)	43.67
Ending balance (in usd per share)	$ 51.66

Quarterly Results (unaudited) -

Quarterly Results (unaudited) - Summary of Quarterly Results (Details) - USD ($)	3 Months Ended									12 Months Ended
	Jan. 27, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Jan. 28, 2017	Oct. 29, 2016	Jul. 30, 2016	Apr. 30, 2016	Jan. 30, 2016	Oct. 31, 2015	Aug. 01, 2015	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract]
Net sales		$ 1,400,609,000	$ 1,375,222,000	$ 1,385,737,000	$ 1,304,115,000	$ 1,445,032,000	$ 1,397,418,000	$ 1,418,241,000	$ 1,332,436,000	$ 5,465,683,000	$ 5,593,127,000	$ 5,386,703,000
Gross profit		289,839,000	294,736,000	315,743,000	299,048,000	335,498,000	329,761,000	318,960,000	317,178,000	1,199,366,000	1,301,397,000	1,322,748,000
Operating income from continuing operations		41,251,000	50,046,000	71,759,000	56,833,000	96,155,000	46,554,000	79,803,000	65,416,000	219,889,000	287,928,000	347,713,000
Net income from continuing operations		20,928,000	108,955,000	40,244,000	30,847,000	61,357,000	27,769,000	45,756,000	38,906,000	200,974,000	173,788,000	185,684,000
Net income from discontinued operations		0	0	0	0	334,000	(3,229,000)	0	0
Net income		$ 20,928,000	$ 108,955,000	$ 40,244,000	$ 30,847,000	$ 61,691,000	$ 24,540,000	$ 45,756,000	$ 38,906,000	$ 200,974,000	$ 170,893,000	$ 187,184,000
Basic earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations (in usd per share)		$ 0.23	$ 1.18	$ 0.43	$ 0.33	$ 0.65	$ 0.29	$ 0.48	$ 0.41	$ 2.17	$ 1.83	$ 1.91
Discontinued operations (in usd per share)		0	0	0	0	0.01	(0.03)	0	0	0	(0.03)	0.02
Basic (in usd per share)		0.23	1.18	0.43	0.33	0.66	0.26	0.48	0.41	2.17	1.80	1.93
Diluted earnings (loss) per share:
Continuing operations (in usd per share)		0.23	1.18	0.43	0.33	0.65	0.29	0.48	0.40	2.16	1.82	1.90
Discontinued operations (in usd per share)		0	0	0	0	0	(0.03)	0	0	0	(0.03)	0.01
Diluted (in usd per share)		$ 0.23	$ 1.18	$ 0.43	$ 0.33	$ 0.65	$ 0.26	$ 0.48	$ 0.40	$ 2.16	$ 1.79	$ 1.91
Tax Cuts And Jobs Act Of 2017, provisional income tax benefit	$ 77,256									$ 76,648,000
Asset impairment charges			$ 36,312,000							$ 0	$ 36,312,000	$ 0

Accumulated Other Comprehensi78

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss ("AOCL") - Summary of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018USD ($)
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	$ 1,394,433
Ending Balance	1,461,790
Cash Flow Hedges
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(14,989)
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	0
Amounts reclassified from AOCL	1,871
Ending Balance	(13,118)
Currency Translation Adjustment
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(77,680)
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	15,824
Amounts reclassified from AOCL	0
Ending Balance	(61,856)
Total
AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward]
Beginning Balance	(92,669)
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications	15,824
Amounts reclassified from AOCL	1,871
Ending Balance	$ (74,974)

Accumulated Other Comprehensi79

Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss ("AOCL") - Additional Information (Details) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018USD ($)
Equity [Abstract]
Gains and losses on cash flow hedges, tax	$ 938
Increase in interest expense	$ 2,809

Schedule II Valuation and Qua80

Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Apr. 28, 2018	Apr. 29, 2017	Apr. 30, 2016
Allowance for doubtful accounts [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	$ 9,342	$ 12,008	$ 7,678
Charged to Costs and Expenses	6,280	1,825	8,246
Charged to Other Accounts	0	0	1,947
Deductions	6,085	4,491	5,863
Balance at End of Period	9,537	9,342	12,008
LIFO inventory adjustment [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	77,816	76,501	73,381
Charged to Costs and Expenses	4,289	1,315	3,120
Charged to Other Accounts	0	0	0
Deductions	0	0	0
Balance at End of Period	82,105	77,816	76,501
Inventory obsolescence reserve [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	5,621	6,621	4,218
Charged to Costs and Expenses	22,919	18,026	15,547
Charged to Other Accounts	0	0	1,550
Deductions	23,164	19,026	14,694
Balance at End of Period	5,376	5,621	6,621
Total inventory reserve [Member]
Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at Beginning of Period	83,437	83,122	77,599
Charged to Costs and Expenses	27,208	19,341	18,667
Charged to Other Accounts	0	0	1,550
Deductions	23,164	19,026	14,694
Balance at End of Period	$ 87,481	$ 83,437	$ 83,122